Grand Teton Mountain
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is just 16 kilometers (10 miles) south of its big sister, Yellowstone National Park, and is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Photograph by James P. Blair, National Geographic
On February 26, 1929, Grand Teton National Park, in northwestern Wyoming, was created. Unlike nearby Yellowstone, Grand Teton took many years and much effort to become a national park.
As early as 1897, it was suggested that adding extra parkland to the south of Yellowstone would offer extra protection for migrating elk herds. Grand Teton originally only protected the peaks and glaciers, however. Residents, including ranchers, believed a national park would limit their business or alter their rural lifestyle.
alter
Verb
to change.
elk
Noun
large species of deer native to North America. Also called American elk and wapiti.
herd
Noun
group of animals.
lifestyle
Noun
way of living, including cultural, economic, and social habits.
migrate
Verb
to move from one place or activity to another.
national park
Noun
geographic area protected by the national government of a country.
Old West
Noun
time period that refers to the western part of North America in the 19th century.
peak
Noun
the very top.
preserve
Noun
an area restricted for the protection and preservation of natural resources
rancher
Noun
person who owns or manages a livestock farm (ranch).
rural
Adjective
having to do with country life, or areas with few residents.
