Vail Resorts lands 15-year contract for Grand Teton concessions worth $1B gross

A Vail Resorts company has been awarded the contract to operate concessions at Grand Teton National Park, estimated to generate more than $1 billion in gross receipts over the next 15 years while serving more than 50 million visitors and generating 1,000 jobs.

The National Park Service awarded Grand Teton Lodge Co. the contract, which begins in 2027, to provide lodging, food and beverage, retail and other services. 

“As we approach the park's centennial in 2029, this partnership will support high-quality visitor services, strengthen local communities through job opportunities and economic activity, and advance our commitment to protecting the extraordinary landscapes, wildlife and historic resources that define Grand Teton,” Chip Jenkins, Grand Teton superintendent, said in a statement.

The agency said the contract is "the largest concessions contract in Grand Teton National Park and one of the most significant visitor services contracts in the National Park System."

According to Vail Resorts' website, its offshoot operates "hotels, dining, campgrounds and activities, with three lodging options: Jackson Lake Lodge, a full service, 385-room resort; Jenny Lake Lodge, a small, rustically elegant retreat with 37 cabins; and Colter Bay Village, a facility with 166 log cabins, 66 tent cabins, 337 campsites and a 112-space recreational vehicle park.

The company also owns the Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club and Flagg Ranch.

Under the new contract, Grand Teton Lodge Company will also make improvements that enhance safety, employee housing and the overall visitor experience, the Park Service said.

Planned projects include construction of new employee housing, upgrades to fire protection systems, additional RV electric hookups at campgrounds, two new tour boats with improved accessibility, an expanded boat rental fleet and bear spray rentals, among other visitor service enhancements. Additionally, Grand Teton Lodge Co. will care for over 400 buildings, including two National Historic Landmarks — Jackson Lake Lodge and Brinkerhoff Lodge on the shore of Jackson Lake.

Additional responsibilities include campground management to reduce wildlife interactions, protection of dark night skies through exterior lighting management, and visitor education through interpretive programs and displays.

The National Park Service contracts with concessioners to provide services that federal agencies typically do not offer while still advancing the agency’s mission. Concession operations also often support employment opportunities in the gateway communities.

Grand Teton Lodge Co. is one of the largest summertime employers in Teton County, Wyoming.