GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — Ice continues to melt off of Jenny Lake and String Lake in Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) this spring, signaling that boating season in the park will be soon underway.
Buckrail photographer Nick Sulzer captured the ice-free conditions on both lakes on Thursday, May 8. With the beginning of May bringing warmer-than-average temperatures, ice and snow has melted across the valley. Although, snow can still be seen along the banks of the lakes and on the Tetons in GTNP.
Jenny Lake and String Lake boast scenic views with the snowcapped peaks creating a dramatic backdrop at this time of year.
GTNP wrote on its website that boating will re-open on Jenny Lake this Thursday, May 15, at 10 a.m., weather permitting. The Jenny Lake Boat Launch will be closed for construction for the 2025 season, but boating including shuttle boats and scenic cruises will not be affected. The Jenny Lake shuttle usually begins operations in May, depending on ice melt, according to GTNP.
A popular spot for swimming, String Lake is an access point for boaters to portage across to the nearby Leigh Lake.
GTNP reminds visitors that all watercraft —motorized and non-motorized, including SUPs and windsurfing boards —must have a valid boat permit. Privately owned vessels must register each year with GTNP. GTNP has also stepped up its protection measures to prevent aquatic invasive species (AIS) in waterways this boating season.
The park’s services and facilities are opening on a staggered schedule with the Jenny Lake Ranger Station opening later in the season, planned for June 7. The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose opened on May 1.
For those getting out on the water make sure to see GTNP’s website for more details about necessary inspections and permits.
