In 1808 a man by the name of John Colter found his way into the valley. Many Indian tribes had been making this their summer home for several years. It wasn't until 1812 that Vieux Pierre saw the valley and revealed its existence to the Hudson Company. Fur traders came far and wide attracted by the abundant game and furs. The Indians and traders in the valley began holding rendezvous and trading festivals that continued for 20 years. Then in 1834 there was a bloody battle amongst rival tribes. For the next 50 years there were no organized habitations in the valley save for some horse thieves and outlaws.

In 1888 a Lawyer from Salt Lake City, B.W. Driggs, came looking for ranch land. He came across the valley and spread the news back to Salt Lake. The following year Mormons started coming to the valley for homesteading. In three years most of land was taken and an agricultural community was established.

In 1969 Grand Targhee Ski Resort was established exposing the valley even more to the outside world.

The population is now mixed with pioneer families and new arrivals from all around the world. Attracted to the valley for its winter and summer outdoor activities.