GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — The ever-popular trail to Delta Lake in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) will undergo restoration and improvements over the next couple of months.

The project intends to improve visitor safety, reduce erosion, protect sensitive alpine vegetation and create a more sustainable route to the high alpine lake. A Thursday news release from GTNP stated that the work will begin in late June and continue through early August. Crews from the Access Fund will be working alongside GTNP’s trail crews on the unofficial route to Delta Lake via the Lupine Meadows Trailhead.

“Projects like this demonstrate what is possible when nonprofit partners, volunteers, outdoor recreation organizations, and the National Park Service work together toward a common goal,” GTNP Superintendent Chip Jenkins said via press release. “By taking these steps today, we are helping protect the Delta Lake area while maintaining the backcountry experience visitors value.”

Over the last few years, Delta Lake has received much attention on social media and experienced a dramatic increase in visitation. This has led to braided social trails, erosion and vegetation impacts in sensitive alpine terrain, per GTNP. The trail work that will take place aims to create a sustainable and “intuitive route” while maintaining the rugged, adventurous nature of the hiking path.

Visitors could encounter temporary delays, short reroutes, and equipment while work crews focus on defining a path, stabilizing the trail and rehabilitating the social trails. Hikers are urged to follow all posted signage, respect work zones and allow for extra time while visiting the area. The project is being supported by the Access Fund, Grand Teton National Park Foundation (GTPNF), Teton Climbers Coalition and AllTrails.

“Delta Lake is one of the park’s most popular destinations, and this project is an important investment in protecting both the visitor experience and the fragile alpine environment for years to come,” GTNPF President Leslie Mattson said in a statement. “We are grateful for the partnership behind this effort and are pleased to support it.”

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.