Inside Grand Teton National Park near Jackson, Wyoming is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. The preserve, complete with interpretative center, opened to the public in summer of 2008.

The Rockefellers were a critical factor in the development of Grand Teton National Park. In 1927, John D. Rockefeller Jr. began to purchase ranches in the area and donated 33,000 acres to the park in 1949.

Phelps Lake was part of the land he retained as a family retreat, the JY Ranch. Originally 3100 acres, the land was gradually passed over to the park. The transfer became complete in 2001.

Eight miles of trails wind through the most scenic areas, and the trek to Phelps Lake is made by combining the Lake Creek and the Woodland Trail loop. The trails pass through a mixture of wetlands, forests, sagebrush meadows and creek side habitat. The loop is 2.9 miles, and does require uphill climbs no matter which direction you choose to take the connecting trails. Be sure to drop down to the shoreline of the lake for great reflections of Death Canyon, particularly in mid morning.

Moose and black bear are commonly seen around the lake, and fishing is allowed with a Wyoming state fishing license.

There are a series of benches and rest areas along the loop, and nice restrooms up at the lake itself. There is also a short trail for disabled visitors which gives them a chance to experience the wetland and meadow ecosystems.

The interpretative center near the Preserve entrance is the first platinum-level LEED certified building in the national park system. The entire center is well done, but one of its most appealing parts is its sound room. Visitors sit quietly and listen to insects, bird calls, bugling elk, the call of a moose, rain, thunder, or a windstorm in the pine trees.

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve is located between Teton Village and Moose off the Moose-Wilson Road. It is clearly marked. There is no additional fee, since The Preserve is now part of Grand Teton National Park. Parking is limited.