Last updated: March 24, 2022
Place
Jenny Lake Ranger Station
Quick Facts
Amenities
3 listed
First Aid/Medical Care Available, Information, Permits Issued
In the 1930s, the Jenny Lake Ranger Station and Museum opened for business as the park's first visitor facility. Over the years, the cabin has moved twice. Lee Manges homesteaded in this cabin near Windy Point in 1925. Park staff moved the cabin to the shores of Jenny Lake in 1929, and to its present location in the mid-1990s.
The furnishings have changed over the years, but the ranger station's mission has changed little. Climbing rangers provide backcountry safety information, climbing route conditions and perform mountain rescues. A small raised-relief map features the core area of the park's backcountry and allows visitors to visualize their route. A safety video provides necessary information for visitors wishing to get a backcountry permit. Other exhibits address the risks of backcountry adventure.
Visitor Services
Open June through early September.
The ranger station provides information about climbing conditions and issues backcountry permits to climbers, and boat permits. Any overnight stay in Garnet Canyon or any trip involving technical climbing or mountaineering must visit the ranger station to get a permit. The ranger station also issues permits for all backpackers.
Operating Hours & Seasons
**Schedule**
(varies slightly year to year)
Early June through Labor Day 8 am-5 pm
Name Origin
Jenny was the Shoshone Indian wife of a British expatriate named Richard "Beaver Dick" Leigh. He moved to the Teton area in 1863 as a fur trapper. Jenny and Beaver Dick assisted the 1872 Hayden expedition - he as their guide, she with camp logistics. The Hayden Expedition named Jenny and Leigh lakes in their honor.
Building History
The Jenny Lake Ranger Station was once the homestead cabin of Lee Manges. In 1925, Manges took up property near today's Windy Point Turnout. The cabin was dismantled and moved to the shores of Jenny Lake in 1930 to serve as the park's first visitor center and museum. In the mid-1990s the cabin was moved once more to reclaim the views along the lake.