Grand Teton National Park

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Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a United States National Park located in northwestern Wyoming. The park encompasses approximately 310,000 acres (130,000 ha) and includes the major peaks of the 40-mile-long (64 km) Teton Range as well as most of the northern sections of the valley known as Jackson Hole. It is only 10 miles (16 km) south of Yellowstone National Park, to which it is connected by the National Park Service-managed John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway.

History

The area that is now Grand Teton National Park has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, have lived in the region for over 11,000 years. The first European explorers arrived in the early 19th century, and the area was later explored by fur trappers and traders.

The park was originally established as a national park on February 26, 1929, to protect the Teton Range and the lakes at the base of the mountains. In 1950, the park was expanded to include much of the adjacent valley floor, which had been protected as Jackson Hole National Monument since 1943.

Geography

Grand Teton National Park is characterized by its stunning mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The Teton Range is a subrange of the Rocky Mountains and includes the park's highest peak, Grand Teton, which rises to 13,775 feet (4,199 m).

The park is home to several large lakes, including Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, and Leigh Lake, which were formed by glaciers. The Snake River also flows through the park, providing important habitat for a variety of species.

Flora and Fauna

The park's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal species. Forests of lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce, and subalpine fir cover much of the park, while sagebrush and grasslands dominate the valley floor.

Wildlife in the park includes large mammals such as grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, and bison. The park is also home to numerous bird species, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and trumpeter swans.

Recreation

Grand Teton National Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. Popular activities include hiking, climbing, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park has over 200 miles (320 km) of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

The park is also a popular destination for mountaineering, with the Teton Range offering some of the most challenging climbs in North America.

Conservation

Conservation efforts in Grand Teton National Park focus on preserving the park's natural resources and ecosystems. The park is managed by the National Park Service, which works to protect the park's wildlife, maintain its trails and facilities, and educate visitors about the importance of conservation.

Also see

• Yellowstone National Park
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• National Park Service
• John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway