The new multi-use pathway in Grand Teton National Park is scheduled to make its debut this Saturday, May 23. Bikers, rollerbladers and other nonmotorized recreationalists will be able to check out the eight-mile stretch meandering through the park.

The mulitmillion-dollar pathways project is partially funded by federal money secured by the late Sen. Craig Thomas, a Repulican from Wyoming. The section that opens on Saturday is the first in what designers plan as a continuous loop connecting downtown Jackson with the national park.

The paved pathway did not come without its fair share of controversy. Some locals and nonresidents criticized the project as adding more asphalt to a scenic and wild national park. Advocates for the project say it will increase the opportunity for more people to enjoy the Teton Range.

We met up with Jackie Skaggs to talk about the project. (We even jumped on the start of the trail, but don’t tell anyone.) Check out our conversation in this video.

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