GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — The Teton Park Road between Taggart Lake Trailhead and Signal Mountain Lodge is officially open for non-motorized users.

In a Wednesday afternoon announcement, Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) said the 14-mile stretch of road has been cleared of snow and is open to walking, running, biking and skating. The park’s Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose is scheduled to open on April 10 for the summer season. The Teton Park Road is expected to open to vehicles on May 1.

“Visitors should stay alert for park vehicles and heavy equipment on all park roads,” GTNP said in the statement. “Respect all road or wildlife closures marked by signs or barricades, and use caution as snow and ice may persist on some road sections.”

The announcement reminds visitors that the Teton Park Road can be busy on warm spring days. Signal Mountain is offered as an alternative to the busy Taggart Lake Trailhead area because there is more parking available. There is a 10-minute loading and unloading zone at the Cottonwood Picnic Area, just north of the Taggart parking lot.

Follow these tips to get full enjoyment out of the wide open road beneath the Tetons:

  • Check road information and weather conditions before visiting.
  • Be alert for wildlife on park roads, as many animals are still migrating.
  • Stay bear aware as bears are becoming active throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem at this time of year. Carry bear spray, and stay at least 100 yards away from bears.
  • Drive responsibly and use care in parking lots. The segment of road between Taggart Lake Trailhead and the Cottonwood Picnic Area can be busy with pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Bring plenty of food and water. There are no amenities available in this part of the park at this time.
  • Use restroom facilities before hitting the pavement. Restrooms are open at Signal Mountain Lodge, Taggart Lake Trailhead and Cottonwood Picnic Area.
  • Leave no trace. Dispose of all trash in garbage cans.
  • Dogs can join in the fun on the Teton Park Road as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet long. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after dogs and disposing of waste in garbage cans.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.