Grand Targhee’s Expansion Plans Reignite Land Swap Debate
A 2004 land swap intended to concentrate development at Grand Targhee Resort’s base has sparked fresh controversy, as the resort pushes for new on-mountain expansion. The original deal, known as the Squirrel Meadows exchange, traded 400 acres of pristine wildlife habitat for 120 acres of Forest Service land at the resort base. At the time, the goal was to focus growth in a manageable area overseen by Teton County, Wyoming.
Fast forward to 2025, and Grand Targhee’s new proposal includes expanding skiable terrain by 35%, adding up to five new lifts, and constructing two large mountaintop restaurants—both on public land. This has raised concerns among local officials and conservationists, who argue the resort should develop within its already privatized base.
While Idaho’s Teton County commissioners supported keeping expansion within existing boundaries—with limited support for a smaller restaurant—Wyoming’s commissioners voiced stronger opposition to the on-mountain dining plans. They prefer that all commercial growth remain at the base.
Resort owner Geordie Gillett maintains the proposed expansion aligns with long-term plans and insists impacts to wildlife have already occurred. “Let the resort be a resort,” he said, defending the proposal as necessary to meet growing visitor demand.
But critics say the plan revives fears from decades ago: that unchecked resort growth could strain local infrastructure, housing, and public lands. Former officials and conservation advocates worry that the vision of Targhee as a small, community-oriented resort is fading in favor of large-scale commercial development.
Public comments on the expansion are open through Friday, June 20 at TinyURL.com/gheecomments.
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