Low Water Cancels Jackson Lake Boat Tours in Grand Teton Two Months Early
a day ago
- Scenic boat tours on Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park shut down about two months early in mid-July due to rapidly dropping water levels.
- The lake's water level is declining faster than normal because of lower inflows from a dry winter and steady downstream irrigation demands for farms in Idaho.
- Jackson Lake is a hybrid natural lake and reservoir; the top 33 feet of water is reserved for irrigation, and the lake was at 60% of that reserve capacity as of the report.
- The early shutdown affects the Colter Bay Marina, but other boat ramps like Leeks Marina may remain operational longer for smaller boats and human-powered watercraft.
- Grand Teton Lodge Co. expects revenue loss from boat tours but offers alternative activities such as Snake River tours, corral rides, and scenic bus tours.