Grand Teton tourist site reopens after crack in rock causes emergency closure

The Hidden Falls Viewing Area and Lower Inspiration Point on the west shore of Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park have reopened.

The area was closed on July 10 out of an abundance of caution and concern that a rock buttress could come loose and fall onto the area.

Park staff completed a risk assessment and determined that a smaller closure area is appropriate. Officials say based on field observations and modeling, if a rockfall does occur, it is unlikely to reach the Hidden Falls Viewing Area due to distance and terrain.

A closure remains in effect for the climbing area known as the “Practice Rocks.”

The results of the risk assessment indicate that if the rock buttress does fall, this area is more likely to be impacted.

Going forward, park staff continue to monitor cracks in the rock buttress above the “Practice Rocks” to better understand the probability that the rock will come loose and fall.

A decision regarding this closure will be based on monitoring and further assessment.

You can view our previous story HERE.