Laurance Rockefeller Preserve

Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve: A Historical Overview

This 1,106-acre preserve on the eastern shore of Phelps Lake and within Grand Teton National Park has a rich history. Established in 1908 as the valley’s first dude ranch, the land that is now part of the preserve was later purchased by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1932. Rockefeller, who played a crucial role in the creation of Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), had initially intended to donate the land to the park. Instead, he transformed it into the Rockefeller family retreat, named the JY Ranch.

In 2007, Laurance Rockefeller, John's son, donated the land to GTNP after removing numerous homes and roads to restore its natural state. The Preserve Center and trails were subsequently opened to the public in 2008.

Hiking Opportunities

Lake Creek – Woodland Trail Loop

If you're looking for easier hiking trails within GTNP, the preserve offers some of the flattest routes in the park. The Lake Creek – Woodland Trail Loop is a 3-mile hike leading to Phelps Lake. Visitors often describe the hike as a pleasant walk with stunning scenery, particularly at the lake.

Challenging Routes

For more ambitious hikers, routes to Death Canyon or Granite Canyon provide a greater challenge. Phelps Lake, formed by retreating glaciers during the last ice age, is a highlight of these hikes. The lake, located at the mouth of Death Canyon, is 160 feet deep, and there are benches along its shore inviting you to sit and admire the view.

The Preserve Center

Even if hiking is not on your agenda, the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center offers an enriching experience. This 7,000-square-foot center was the first building in the U.S. National Park Service and Wyoming to achieve LEED-Platinum status. Its chapel-like atmosphere enhances its appeal as a visitor center.

The center features a resource room stocked with books, maps, leather chairs, and a fireplace. Exhibits highlight John D. Rockefeller’s vision for the preserve, his conservation legacy, and the diverse plant and wildlife species in the area.

Operating Hours and Tips

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center is usually open from early June to late September, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours in the summer. Due to its popularity and limited parking—only 50 cars are allowed at a time—visitors are advised to arrive early. A one car in, one car out policy ensures that the preserve is never overcrowded, but this also means that latecomers, especially in July and August, should be prepared to wait for a parking spot.