The state of Wyoming in the USA is famous for its natural attractions. One of them is the Grand Teton National Park. Picturesque landscapes of unspoiled, wilderness are very attractive for tourists. Many hiking trails and highways, laid especially for travelers, help to see the local beauty. Hotels located in the thickets of the forest, at the foot of the mountains, on the shores of reservoirs, are conducive to calm, relaxation, far from megacities, in the fresh air.
In the center of the park, among the mountains, at an altitude of 2067m above sea level, Jenny Lake is located. It was formed about 12 thousand years ago during the melting of glaciers. The depth in some places reaches 129 meters. The water here is exceptional, the lake is one of the ten cleanest bodies of water on our planet.
Why the lake was named Jenny
The pond got its name as a result of the beautiful love story of the British pioneer scientist Richard Lee for a girl from the Shoshone Indian tribe, who then ruled these lands. Jenny became Richard's wife, helped her husband and his companions in research. Indian tribes roamed these mountain ranges up to the 19th century, were engaged in hunting and fishing.
Fishing on the lake
Fishing on the lake is worthy of special attention. More than fifty species of fish are found here. A lot of trout, this confirms that the water is really very clean. In 2005, she even underwent serious chemical analysis.
Fauna
Wild animals can be found behind any tree. Guides warn that together with tourists walking along the trails, huge bears sometimes also explore the surroundings. Cougars, lynxes, wolves, and various types of rodents also live in these places. Large mammals include moose and bison. Until recently, the park was famous for its fur extraction. Beaver skins were highly valued, which significantly reduced the number of their owners. At the moment, hunting in these places is only possible with a special license.
Mountaineering
The state of Wyoming has a rich history of mountaineering development. The mountain ranges of Teton are especially popular with fans of this sport. Many routes to conquer the local peaks have been laid over the past century.
Landscapes
Moving north along the eastern shore of the lake, travelers can truly appreciate the stunning beauty of the local views. The multi-colored stones at the bottom seem to be alive and move under the water, illuminated by the sun. White clouds lying on the tops of the mountains are reflected in the lake, as in a mirror. The blue sky is striking in its depth both above and below. Huge dark green pines surrounding the rocks, like ancient giants, guard all this splendor. Huge boulders lie quietly around. Even here and there lying in disorder tree trunks (aftermath of a fire in 1999) add fabulousness to this wonderful landscape.
Boating
In the north, the Cottonwood Creek flows into the lake. From a bird's eye view, its mouth resembles the head of the Loch Ness monster. A magnificent pedestrian bridge was built from the "Nesy breast". There is a boat station here. Jenny is one of the few bodies of water in the park where motorboats are allowed. Therefore, tourists can admire the delightful pictures from the middle of the lake without spending a lot of effort.
In addition, another surprise awaits them. In addition to the incomparable views of the cliffs, "looking" into the mirror of the water, there is an amazing waterfall at the end of the path. It is created by the Cascade Stream, which flows into the lake from the west. The extraordinary sight and sound of bubbling water falling on the ledges, the freshness of the air create an indescribable sensation.
Hiking
And those who decide to hike along the west coast should work hard. The road lies on hilly terrain, and, in some places, you have to wade through rocky ledges. For that, they can see Lake Jenny from above. Enjoy the mesmerizing pictures of mountains, trees and shrubs growing among the rocks.
Climbing a little to the right of the lake, travelers pass through the stunning surroundings of the Hidden Falls. Further, along the Cascade canyon, a whole cascade of waterfalls sharpens the rocks, ending in Jenny. Anyone who has been here will leave in their memories the age-old pines, and the white water beating against the rapids, making a unique sound.
Viewpoint
Climbing the ridge further south, tourists get to the observation deck, from where an excellent view opens up not only of the lake and mountains. Hanging Canyon is clearly visible from here. Another natural wonder surrounding Jenny. Virgin forests, untouched by human hand, flowering fragrant meadows. Their integrity is violated only by stone paths created for tourists.
Best time to visit
In autumn, these places are especially beautiful. The dark blue sky falls not just to the ground, but below, below the surface of the water. The forest, "dressed up" in gold and crimson, against the background of darkened mountains, is also repeated in a mirror image. Among the evergreen pines, there are bright red bushes, the grass between the stones is pale yellow. The air is already quite cold, but filled with the heady scent of autumn.
In a very short time, a long, harsh winter will come. The lake will be covered with a thick layer of ice, everything will turn white. But the local landscapes will not become less attractive from this. Walking on skis and snowmobiles will also give pleasure to connoisseurs of the cold silence of snow-covered mountains and majestic pines. Moreover, the local winter landscapes are not so lifeless. Here are the trails of the famous American moose. At this time of the year, they just migrate through these places. Meeting such large animals will bring pleasant moments, especially since they are practically not afraid of people.
Climate
The climate in Grand Teton Park is quite harsh. Winter lasts from late September to early May. Nighttime temperatures are very different from daytime temperatures. Moreover, in the mountains it drops by 1 ° C every 300m. Particularly high passes can remain covered with snow until mid-July. Thunderstorms often occur in the mountains. This adds extra charm to the lake in early summer.
Tourists love this park very much. In the United States, this National Park is one of the most visited. On average, 2.5 million people visit here annually. None of them remains indifferent to the incomparable views of the local nature. And those who have been to Jenny Lake will forever leave unforgettable impressions of the trip in their hearts.