John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway is in northwest Wyoming. It follows US 89 between Grant Village and Moose, a distance of 82 miles. US Highway 89 is a two-lane paved road suitable for all vehicles. The highway north of Flagg Ranch is not maintained during winter; access to Yellowstone National Park is by snowmobile or commercial snow coach. The portion from Moran Junction to Moose is also part of the Wyoming Centennial byway.
The byway is accompanied by the scenic Snake River, which empties into Jackson Lake. Cutthroat trout, brown and brook trout, mackinaw, and whitefish are abundant in the river and its tributaries. Visitors along the byway may see moose feeding among the willows; elk and deer passing through the open forest; and beavers working the numerous creeks. Threatened and endangered species, such as the bald eagle and grizzly bear, find protection here.
The scenic drive winds through forests of lodgepole pine, spruce, fir, and aspen. Wet meadows and willow thickets line the rivers while wildflowers and grasses cover the open hillsides during summer. Several scenic overlooks provide views of majestic the Teton Range of the Rocky Mountains. A 24,000-acre parcel of land is also known as the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. This land area connects the two national parks and was dedicated in 1972 to recognize Mr. Rockefeller’s generosity in making significant contributions to several national parks across the country, including Acadia, Great Smoky Mountains, Virgin Islands, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
There are several trails that can be accessed along the drive. Some are short self-guided trails while others are long, strenuous paths that will take you deep into the national park and surrounding national forests. Wilderness areas offer the sweet silence of seclusion and two of these primitive and rugged areas can only be reached by hiking trails. Several camping areas are also along this route. Some recreation areas offer such amenities as restaurants, lodging, and grocery stores.