The trails at Taggart Lake provide some of the more spectacular views in Grand Teton National Park. NPS Photo/J. Bonney

Public comment period for Environmental Assessment opens August 20

MOOSE, Wyo. —Grand Teton National Park is moving forward with a project to enhance visitor access and improve facilities at the popular Taggart Lake trail area and would like public input about the proposed improvements. The project is aimed at meeting growing visitor demand while improving safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience.

The Environmental Assessment (EA) for the project is now available for public review. A 35-day public comment period will run through September 23, 2025, and will include a virtual public meeting to provide additional information and answer questions.

Key elements of the proposed project include:

• A larger parking lot to reduce congestion and enhance safety.
• New toilets and a potable water station at the trailhead.
• A redesigned, accessible trailhead area and improved multiuse pathway connections.
• Upgrades to the Taggart Lake Trail, including reconstruction to meet accessibility standards up to the trail’s first bridge.
• Shoreline improvements at Taggart Lake to better define access points and protect natural resources.
• Accessibility and facility improvements to the Cottonwood Creek Picnic area.

How to participate:

• Visit the NPS Planning, Environment & Public Comment (PEPC) website through September 23 to review the EA and submit comments.
• The park will host a virtual public meeting during the comment period. Details will be announced on the PEPC website and the park’s social media channels.

The estimated construction cost for the project is $14.6 million, with about $10.5 million in philanthropic funding through the generous support of the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. Construction and associated closures should begin in 2026.

Visit https://parkplanning.nps.gov/taggartlakeexperience-ea for project information. For information about Grand Teton National Park, visit www.nps.gov/grte.