Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve | Jackson Hole

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, located at the south entrance of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, is a serene sanctuary that blends conservation, education, and outdoor recreation. Established in 2008 on land donated by the Rockefeller family, the preserve covers 1,106 acres of forest, wetlands, and meadows, offering visitors an immersive experience in the Teton landscape.

Trails and Exploration

The preserve features over five miles of interconnected hiking trails that wind through diverse habitats. Trails such as the Phelps Lake Loop and Willow Flats Trail provide easy to moderate walks, making them suitable for families and casual hikers. Boardwalks and interpretive signs guide visitors through sensitive ecosystems, allowing close encounters with native flora like aspen groves, cottonwood trees, and wildflowers, while maintaining environmental protection.

Wildlife and Nature

The preserve is a hotspot for wildlife observation. Visitors often spot moose grazing along marshes, beavers at work in the wetlands, and a variety of birds, including trumpeter swans and bald eagles. The careful design of trails and observation areas ensures minimal disturbance to the animals, creating a peaceful and immersive natural experience.

Rockefeller Preserve Visitor Center

The Visitor Center, built in a striking, eco-friendly style with natural materials, serves as both an educational hub and gateway to the preserve. Exhibits highlight conservation practices, the history of the Rockefeller family’s land donation, and the ecology of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The center also offers ranger-led programs, nature talks, and guided hikes.

Atmosphere and Experience

The preserve’s atmosphere is tranquil and reflective, contrasting with the busier areas of Grand Teton National Park. The gentle rustle of leaves, the reflective surface of Phelps Lake, and the distant silhouette of the Tetons create a meditative environment for walking, photography, or quiet contemplation. Visitors often remark on the sense of harmony between human design and the natural landscape, making it a restorative and educational destination.