Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Trailhead

Hikers viewing Phelps Lake

NPS/ A. Mattson

Quick Facts

Amenities

5 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Restroom, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead

General Description

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve contains a trail network, a unique visitor center, and the opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. This 1,100 acres of land was once known as the JY Dude Ranch. Eventually, John D. Rockefeller and his family—who had great influence on the creation of the park—eventually purchased the ranch and it became a family retreat. Laurance, the son of John D. Rockefeller, announced in 2001 that this privately owned parcel of land would be donated to the park and in 2008, the preserve opened to the public. Laurance's vision of creating a place that fostered a deeper connection with the natural world continues today.

Location

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Trailhead and Visitor Center is accessed by turning off Moose-Wilson Road. Please note that no vehicles over 23 feet long, 8 feet wide, or trailers are allowed on Moose-Wilson Road. After turning into the preserve, short drive will take you to a small parking lot that holds 50 vehicles. The parking lot is usually full from 9am-4pm during peak summer months; a queue is formed once filled. There are restrooms in the parking lot, up by the visitor center, and by the lakeshore. 

The Preserve Center offers visitor information, water and restrooms.

Backcountry camping requires a permit-pick one up at a backcountry permits office. Backcountry campers may not leave a vehicle at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve parking lot.

Notes

Unlike most hikes in Grand Teton, there is a restroom (with no potable water) right before the lakeshore. Due to the unique and serene design of the preserve, it is recommended to keep group size to a max of ten people. Please note that no vehicles over 23 feet long, 8 feet wide, or trailers are allowed on Moose-Wilson Road. The parking lot holds 50 cars is usually full from 9am-4pm during peak summer months; a queue is formed once filled

Hikes

A short pathway leads you from the parking lot to the visitor center. Here, you can tour the center and its exhibits, use the restrooms, and begin your hike. An informational kiosk outside the center marks the beginning of the preserve's trail system. Rangers are present at the visitor center during the summer months and can answer questions. Black bears frequent this area so remember to bear aware while hiking. 

Lake Creek-Woodland Trail Loop
3.0 miles round-trip, 1.5 hours, 300 ft total climbing. Easy.
Trail follows Lake Creek to several scenic views across Phelps Lake, then loops back through a mature forest on the Woodland Trail.

Aspen Ridge-Boulder Ridge Loop
5.8 miles round-trip, 3 hours, 550 ft total climbing. Moderate.
Hike a forested loop with views of Phelps Lake and the valley. Optionally, hike through a boulder field.

Phelps Lake Trail Loop
6.3 miles round-trip, 4+ hours, 600 ft total climbing. Moderate.
Hike around Phelps Lake crossing the wetland boardwalk.

Name Origin

Laurance S. Rockefeller was the fourth child of John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and Abigail Rockefeller. Laurance was a businessman, philanthropist and conservationist. He transferred the family retreat (formerly the JY Dude Ranch) to Grand Teton National Park in 2001. After the removal of ranch infrastructure, and the construction of trails and a LEED Platinum certified visitor center, the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve opened to the public in 2008.