Grand Teton National Park!

The Grand Teton National Park is one of Wyoming’s most stunning natural treasures. With its towering mountain range, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. Whether you’re here for an adventurous hike, a peaceful boat ride, or simply to soak in the breathtaking views, Grand Teton offers a mix of activities for all types of travelers. The park is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, meaning you’re likely to spot animals like elk, moose, and even bears during your visit to Wyoming.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Cascade Canyon

The Cascade Canyon offers a scenic and rewarding hike starting at Jenny Lake, where visitors can either hike around or take a shuttle boat. The trail passes Hidden Falls, a 100 foot waterfall, and Inspiration Point, which offers stunning views before leading into the glacially carved canyon. The path is mostly gradual, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers, with Cascade Creek flowing through, creating a peaceful atmosphere. At the Forks of Cascade Canyon, hikers can either head toward Lake Solitude, a quiet alpine lake, or Hurricane Pass, offering views of glaciers and rugged mountain peaks.

Signal Mountain

Standing at 7,727 feet, Signal Mountain is an isolated peak that offers a unique perspective of the area’s landscape. Visitors can reach the summit by hiking or driving up the Signal Mountain Summit Road. The hike is about 6.8 miles round trip and passes through forest terrain before opening up to views at the top. The road provides an easier way to access the summit for those who prefer to drive. At the summit, visitors get a panoramic view of the Jackson Lake, Snake River and Teton Range. The Signal Mountain Lodge offers lodging, dining and boat rentals for those looking to explore Jackson Lake.

Mormon Row Historic District

The Mormon Row Historic District is one of the most photographed places in Grand Teton National Park. This area was settled by Mormon homesteaders in the 1890s. They built farms close together, unlike some homesteads common in the West, to share resources. The settlers used irrigation to grow crops in the dry land, digging ditches by hand and with horses. Today, visitors can see the remains of these homesteads, including barns, houses and old irrigation systems. The Moulton Barns are the famous landmarks, and have become iconic, attracting photographers from around the world.

Death Canyon

The Death Canyon is a rugged and scenic area in Grand Teton, that offers more challenging but a rewarding hike. The trail starts at the Death Canyon Trailhead, which is accessed via Moose-Wilson Road. The first section leads to Phelps Lake Overlook, a great spot to enjoy views of the lake and valley. After that point, the path slopes downward toward the lake before continuing into the canyon. The path climbs steadily through rocky terrain, eventually opening up to wide mountain views. The canyon was shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago, leaving behind steep cliffs and a U-shaped valley.

Schwabacher Landing

Located along the Snake River, Schwabacher Landing offers incredible views of the Teton Range reflected in the calm waters. The landing is easily accessible by a short dirt road off Highway 89/191, though it can be impassable in winter. Visitors can take a short walk from the parking area to reach the river, where beaver dams have shaped the landscape, creating still ponds that mirror the towering peaks. The site is popular among photographers, especially during the sunrise and sunset. It was once used as a boat launch, but changes in the river’s course have made it inaccessible for boats today.

Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch

The Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch is a budget-friendly lodging option for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Grand Teton National Park. Located just south of Jenny Lake, about 4 miles north of the park headquarters in Moose, WY, the ranch provides simple accommodations in a communal setting. Guests stay in rustic dormitory-style cabins with wooden bunks, and they must bring their own sleeping pad and sleeping bag. Originally home to the Double Diamond Dude Ranch, which welcomed guests from 1924 until the late 1960s, the site was transformed into the Climbers’ Ranch in 1970.

Paintbrush Canyon

The Paintbrush Canyon is a beautiful hiking spot with scenic trail that provides both stunning views and challenges. The trail begins at String Lake and gradually ascends through dense forests, opening up to rocky terrain and alpine scenery. Hikers pass Holly Lake, before reaching Paintbrush Divide, the highest point of the trail at about 10,700 feet. The descent leads to Lake Solitude, offering a perfect place to rest before continuing into Cascade Canyon. The full loop, known as the Paintbrush-Cascade Canyon Loop, is about 20 miles long and is considered hard due to its elevation gain and length.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hiking Trails

With more than 250 miles of hiking trails, Grand Teton National Park has options for every hiker, from easy hikes to tough backcountry adventures. One of the most popular hikes is the Jenny Lake Trail, which circles the lake and provides access to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Another great option is the Cascade Canyon Trail, a moderate 9.2 miles hike that takes visitors deep into the park with stunning views of the Cathedral Group. Phelps Lake Trail is another scenic option, offering a 6.6 miles loop through forests and along the lake shore.

For those looking for a tougher challenge, the Delta Lake via Lupine Meadows Access trail is a steep and unmaintained route leading to a beautiful alpine lake. The Taggart Lake Loop is an easier hike, just under 4 miles, with great views of the Teton Range. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather, carry plenty of water, and be aware of wildlife, including bears. The best time to hike is summer and early fall when most trails are clear of snow.

Climbing and Mountaineering

Grand Teton National Park is a top destination for climbers and mountaineers, offering a mix of technical climbs, alpine routes and scenery. The Teton Range has peaks that rise sharply from the valley, creating challenging climbs. Grand Teton is the park’s most well-known peak, rising to an height of 13,775 feet. Climbers can choose from several routes, with the Owen-Spalding and Exum Ridge being the most popular. These routes require technical climbing skills and many climbers hire guides from services like Exum Mountain Guides or Jackson Hole Mountain Guides for safety and expertise.

Boating and Canoeing

Grand Teton National Park offers incredible opportunities for boating and canoeing, with its clear lakes and scenic waterways providing a peaceful way to explore the landscape. Jackson Lake is the largest body of water in the park and a popular spot for boating, canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can rent boats at Colter Bay Marina, where options include kayaks and motorboats. Jenny Lake is another great place for paddling, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Snake River providing a chance for scenic float trips, allowing visitors to experience the park in a unique perspective.

Fishing Spots

Grand Teton National Park is a great place for fishing, with clear lakes and rivers full of trout. Many anglers fish near Jackson Lake Dam and Jenny Lake, where the water is deep and the fish are plentiful, offering great views of the mountains. Jackson Lake is the largest lake in the park and has a variety of fish, making it a popular choice for both shore and boat fishing. Anyone planning to fish in the park needs a Wyoming fishing license, available for purchase online or at visitor centers. The best time to fish is during summer and early fall when the weather is pleasant and the water conditions are good.

Biking Trails

Grand Teton National Park has several biking trails that offer stunning views and a great way to explore the park. The Grand Teton Pathway is one of the most popular routes, stretching from Jackson to Jenny Lake. Teton Park Road is another good choice for cycling, as it goes through the park, passing lakes, forests and mountain views. For those looking for a more rugged experience, Two Ocean Lake Road and River Road offer gravel paths with chances to see wildlife along the way. Cyclists can also find designated bike hubs with parking and racks at spots like Taggart Lake and Moose Junction.

Winter Activities

Winter in Grand Teton offers a scenic experience, with snow-covered mountains and trails. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with groomed trails available along Teton Park Road, Colter Bay and Taggart Lake. In specific areas like the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, snowmobiling is permitted, to enjoy the backcountry experience. Visitors can also join a park ranger-led snowshoe hike to discover the park’s winter landscape and ecosystem. The National Elk Refuge offers horse-drawn sleigh rides, giving visitors a close-up view of hundreds of elk in their winter habitat.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Grand Teton

Standing at 13,775 feet, Grand Teton is the highest peak in the park, with it impressive height making it one of the most recognizable mountains in the Teton Range. Climbers and hikers from around the world visit the park to experience its rugged beauty. The most popular climbing routes include the Owen-Spalding and Exum Ridge, both requiring technical skills and many climbers choose to hire guides for support. In the early 19th century, French-speaking trappers gave the range its original name, “les trois tétons,” which translates to “the three teats.” Over time, the name was shortened to Tetons.

Inspiration Point

The trail to Inspiration Point begins at South Jenny Lake, where visitors can either hike 5.7 miles of loop trail from the lake or take a shuttle boat to shorten the journey. Those using the shuttle boat will have a shorter hike of about 1.8 miles round trip. Once on the west side of the lake, the trail climbs toward Hidden Falls, a 100 foot waterfall fed by snowmelt. From there, hikers continue up a series of switchbacks to reach Inspiration Point, which sits at an elevation of about 7,200 feet. From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy the views of Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole Valley, and the Cathedral Group peaks.

Colter Bay Marina

The Colter Bay Marina is a popular spot in Grand Teton National Park, located on the shores of Jackson Lake. It offers boat rentals, a launch area and a store with supplies for visitors looking to explore the water. Canoes, kayaks and motorboats are available, allowing visitors to paddle through the lake while enjoying the views of the towering Teton Range. Guided boat tours provide visitors a chance to learn about the area’s history, local wildlife and ecosystem while cruising across the lake. Water levels can vary depending on the season, so checking conditions before heading out is recommended.

Oxbow Bend

The Oxbow Bend is a peaceful and scenic spot where the Snake River flowing through a crescent-shaped curve, offering stunning views of the Teton Range. Located along Highway 89/191 between Jackson Lake Junction and Moran Junction, this area is known for its calm waters that often reflect Mount Moran, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The overlook is easily accessible from a paved pullout, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the park. The best time to visit is late summer or fall when the weather is mild and the aspens across the river turn shades of yellow and orange.

Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center is a 1,106 acres refuge, once part of the Rockefeller family’s private retreat before being donated to the park in 2001. The center provides information about hiking trails and ranger-led programs, including guided hikes to Phelps Lake. Guests can explore displays featuring nature recordings, large-scale photography and HD videos that highlight the area’s wildlife and landscapes. The preserve features a variety of ecosystems, from spruce forests to open sagebrush meadows and dense fir, along with wetlands that serve as a resting spot for migrating birds.

Jenny Lake Visitor Center

Located near Jenny Lake, Jenny Lake Visitor Center is located inside the historic Crandall Studio, functions as an art gallery and museum, showcasing the role of art in preserving the Teton Range. Park rangers lead programs daily, providing insights into the park’s history, wildlife and conservation efforts. The center also has exhibits that highlight the connection between art and nature. A bookstore operated by the Grand Teton Association offers guidebooks, trail maps and themed souvenirs. Nearby, the Jenny Lake Ranger Station issues backcountry camping permits and offers guidance for climbers.

Colter Bay Visitor Center

Located on the shore of Jackson Lake, Colter Bay Visitor Center was once the Colter Bay Museum and now hosts the Indigenous Arts and Cultural Demonstration Program, where visiting artists share traditions through painting, weaving, pottery and beadwork. Guests can check out exhibits, join ranger-led programs, and watch a park film to gain a deep understanding of the area. The center provides permits for backpacking and boating, making it a useful stop for those planning outdoor activities. Nearby, Colter Bay Village has lodging and dining, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.

Flagg Ranch Information Station

Located at John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, Flagg Ranch Information Station is the first stop for visitors traveling south from Yellowstone, offering trip planning details and helpful resources. The station is housed in a small wooden cabin, staffed daily during the peak summer season. Inside, visitors can find exhibits about the Rockefeller legacy, park history and conservation efforts. From the parking area, visitors can explore nearby trails like the Pole Creek loop or venture into Snake River Canyon. The station provides information about road conditions, hiking routes and seasonal activities.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Indigenous Arts and Cultural Demonstration Program

Every summer, Grand Teton National Park hosts the Indigenous Arts and Cultural Demonstration Program at Colter Bay Visitor Center, where Indigenous artists share traditional and contemporary crafts. Artists demonstrate beadwork, pottery, weaving, painting and musical instrument making, allowing visitors to interact and even purchase unique pieces. Saturday nights often feature live performances and cultural presentations at the Colter Bay Amphitheater. Grand Teton and John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway are tied to 24 Associated Tribes with deep ancestral connections to the land.

Jenny Lake Scenic Boat Ride

The Jenny Lake Scenic Boat Ride takes visitors across Jenny Lake and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Grand Teton National Park. The ride lasts about an hour and is led by guides who share information about the park’s history, geology and wildlife. The boat dock is located in the South Jenny Lake area, and visitors can follow signs from the Jenny Lake Visitor Center to reach it. Shuttle boats are also available, providing a quick way to reach popular hiking spots like Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Canoes and kayaks can be rented for those who prefer to explore the lake on their own.

Ranger-led Programs

The Ranger-led programs provide visitors a chance to learn more about Grand Teton National Park. Visitors can take part in guided hikes, lecture talks and wildlife observation sessions, all designed to share knowledge about the park’s environment and cultural history. Rangers lead walks along scenic trails, sharing information about plants and geology of the area. Wildlife programs help visitors spot moose, bears and birds while learning about their behaviors and habitats. Evening talks cover topics like park history, conservation and Indigenous cultures, often held at visitor centers or campgrounds.

Junior Ranger Program

The Junior Ranger Program encourages children to complete activities in the Junior Ranger booklet, which is available at visitor centers or online. To earn a Junior Ranger badge, participants must complete the required activities and attend at least one ranger-led program. Once the booklet is completed, children can bring it to a visitor center to be sworn in as Junior Rangers and receive their badge. In spring, families can take part in National Junior Ranger Day at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, where kids can enjoy fun activities and games designed for learning the park and entertain.

Jackson Lake Lodge

The Jackson Lake Lodge sits on a natural bluff in the Park, offering incredible views of Jackson Lake and Teton Range. The lodge is known for its large windows that frame the mountains, making it a favorite spot for visitors. Built in the 1950s, it was the first major lodge in the national park system designed in a modern architectural style. The lodge is a full-service resort with lodging, dining and activity planning. Guests can stay in rooms inside the main lodge or in quiet cottages nearby. Visitors can explore take a short walk to nearby Lunch Tree Hill for panoramic views, or join guided horseback rides.

Educational Field Trips

The educational field trips in the park help students connect with nature while learning about the park’s ecology, geology and history. Park rangers lead guided programs, giving students hands-on experiences with the land, wildlife and conservation efforts. Field trips include activities like wildlife observation, geology walks and lessons on Indigenous history. Some programs takeplace at visitor centers, while others involve short hikes to key locations. The Teton Science Schools provide outdoor learning experiences, offering immersive programs that focus on science and environmental education.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to explore the park’s landscape and enjoy scenic views of the Teton Range. Several outfitters offer guided trail rides, with options ranging from short one hour rides to longer excursions through forests, meadows and mountain paths. Teton Village Trail Rides provides family-friendly rides through creeks and switchback trails, offering breathtaking views of Jackson Hole, crossing the creek and wildlife sightings. The Grand Teton Lodge Company operates rides from Jackson Lake Lodge and Colter Bay Village, with trails passing through wildflower meadows and pine forests.

Scenic Drives

Scenic driving through Grand Teton National Park is one of the best ways to take in its stunning landscapes. The 42 miles Scenic Loop Drive is a popular route, offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range, wildlife sightings and access to key landmarks. This scenic loop follows Highway 191/89/26 and Teton Park Road, linking Moran and Moose Junctions along the way. Visitors can stop at overlooks like Snake River Overlook, Oxbow Bend and Schwabacher Landing, each providing a unique perspective of the park.

Jenny Lake Scenic Drive is another must-see route, offering close-up views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Signal Mountain Summit Road is a short but rewarding drive, leading to a high vantage point with panoramic views of Jackson Hole and the Tetons. Wildlife is common along these roads, so drivers should stay alert, especially at dawn and dusk. The best time to explore these routes is from late spring to early fall when roads are clear and weather conditions are favorable.

5. Natural Attractions

Jackson Lake

The Jackson Lake is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the United States, sitting at an elevation of 6,772 feet in Grand Teton National Park. It stretches about 15 miles long and 7 miles wide, offering plenty of space for boating and fishing. Originally shaped by glaciers, the lake was later enlarged when Jackson Lake Dam was built in 1911 and later reconstructed in 1989. The Snake River flows into and out of the lake, making it a key water source for the region. Several marinas such as Colter Bay and Leeks Marina, provide access points, guided tours and boat rentals for visitors to explore the lake.

Jenny Lake

The Jenny Lake is a popular destination in the park, formed by glaciers about 12,000 years ago. Covering 1,191 acres and reaching a depth of 256 feet, it sits at the base of towering Teton Range. Visitors can explore the lake by hiking, boating, or enjoying the view. The Jenny Lake Trail loops around the water, leading to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, two of the most scenic spots in the park. Shuttle boats run across the lake, making it easier to reach these destinations without a long hike. The ideal time to visit the lake is during summer when the climate is warm and trails are at its best for hiking.

Taggart Lake

The Taggart Lake is a picturesque destination in the park with a gentle hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range. The trail starts at the Taggart Lake Trailhead, located off Teton Park Road, and is one of the most popular hikes in the park. The trail is smooth and well-maintained, making it easy for people of all experience levels to enjoy. The round-trip distance is about 3.8 miles, with a gentle elevation gain of around 423 feet. Along the way, hikers pass through local wildlife, forests, meadows and aspen groves, which are especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves turn golden.

String and Leigh Lakes

The String and Leigh Lakes are peaceful spots ideal for outdoor activities in Grand Teton National Park. String Lake is shallow, making it a great place for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can bring their own boats and paddle across the lake, then carry them to Leigh Lake for more exploring. Leigh Lake can only be reached by hiking or through boating, which keeps it peaceful and unspoiled. Both lakes have trails along the shore, offering easy to moderate hikes with stunning views of Teton Range. Visitors should keep a safe distance from animals and store food properly to avoid attracting bears.

Camping Sites

Camping is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Grand Teton Park’s mountains, lakes and wildlife. The park features multiple campgrounds, each with its own unique atmosphere and surroundings. Gros Ventre Campground is close to Jackson and sits near the Gros Ventre River, surrounded by cottonwood trees. Jenny Lake Campground is a tent-only site near Jenny Lake, providing easy access to hiking trails and scenic views.

Colter Bay Campground is a larger site with options for tents and RVs, located near Jackson Lake. Headwaters Campground at Flagg Ranch is another option, offering a mix of tent and RV sites near Yellowstone. Colter Bay Village RV Park offers full hookups for all RV visitors. Signal Mountain Lodge has lakeside camping with stunning views. Advance reservations are necessary for all campgrounds. Late spring through early fall is the ideal time to camp here, thanks to the mild weather.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Bridger-Teton National Forest

From Grand Teton Park, it’s just a short drive to reach Bridger-Teton National Forest, offers a chance to explore Wyoming’s wilderness. The forest covers over 3.4 million acres and offers stunning mountain views, rivers and wildlife. Visitors can start their trip by driving along Highway 89/191, which leads to scenic areas like Gros Ventre Wilderness and Wind River Range. Hiking is popular here, with trails that vary from easy hikes to tough climbs. Fishing is a favorite, with clear streams and lakes full of trout. Horseback riding is available through guided tours, offering a unique way to explore the landscape.

Shoshone National Forest

Planning a day trip to Shoshone National Forest takes about an hour drive from Grand Teton National Park. Shoshone is the first national forest established in the United States and covers over 2.4 million acres. Visitors can start their trip by exploring the forest’s many hiking trails, which range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Popular spots include the Wind River Range, Beartooth Highway and Absaroka Mountains, offering stunning views and chances to see wildlife. For the best experience, plan a trip in summer or fall when the climate is warm and the trails are easily accessible.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

A day trip to Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve roughly takes 3 hours from Grand Teton, featuring lava fields, towering cinder cones and caves shaped by volcanic activity long ago. Guests can start at the visitor center, where maps, exhibits and a park film provide background on the area. The 7 miles Loop Road is the best way to see the park, with stops at Devils Orchard, Inferno Cone and the caves. Hiking trails lead to lava tubes and spatter cones, offering a closer look at the rugged terrain. A free cave permit is required to enter any cave, which can be obtained at the visitor center.

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Start a day trip from Grand Teton and drive around 3 hours to explore the diverse landscapes of Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana. The forest covers over 3 million acres and offers a mix of mountains, rivers and open plains. Visitors can start their trip by heading north toward Yellowstone, then continuing into the forest. Popular spots include the Beartooth Highway, which offers stunning mountain views, and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, known for its rugged terrain and wildlife. Hiking is a favorite activity to explore, with trails leading to alpine lakes, waterfalls and scenic overlooks.

Bear Lake

From Grand Teton, a day trip to Bear Lake takes about 3 to 4 hours, offers a scenic drive and a chance to explore one of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Located on the border of Idaho and Utah, Bear Lake is known for its bright turquoise water, which comes from limestone deposits in the lake. Once at Bear Lake, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Swimming and boating are popular, with rental options available for kayaks, paddleboards and jet skis, while it is also a great spot for fishing. The Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is an ideal destination to watch variety of bird species and wildlife.

How to Reach Grand Teton National Park

The easiest way to reach Grand Teton National Park is by flying into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is located inside the park and about 15 minutes from the town of Jackson. It offers direct flights from major cities, including Denver, Las Vegas and Chicago, with more flights available in summer due to higher visitor demand. Other nearby airports include Idaho Falls Regional Airport located in Idaho Falls, about 2 hours away, providing additional flight options and rental car services for flexibility.

Visitors driving from Yellowstone can enter through the north via Highway 191, while those coming from the south can take Highway 89 through Jackson. The Moose Entrance is the most commonly used, providing access to key areas like Jenny Lake and Teton Park Road, while the Moran Entrance provides access to Jackson Lake and Colter Bay. For those arriving by car, U.S. Highway 89 runs along the park’s eastern edge, making it an easy drive from Salt Lake City in about 5 hours and from Yellowstone National Park in just one hour.

Local Transportation

Getting around Grand Teton National Park is easiest by car, as public transport options are limited. Many visitors choose to rent a car to explore the park as the main roads, including Teton Park Road and Highway 89/191, provide access to key areas like Jenny Lake, Colter Bay and Jackson Lake. Parking can be crowded in summer, so arriving early is recommended. For those without a car, taxis and shuttle services operate in Jackson and nearby areas.

START Bus provides public transportation in Jackson Hole, but it does not run inside the park. Broncs Taxi and Teton Mountain Taxi provide private transport to and from the park, while A to B Transportation offers airport shuttles and taxi services throughout Jackson Hole. Some lodges and tour companies offer guided transportation, including boat shuttles across Jenny Lake. Biking is allowed on park roads, but there are no dedicated bike lanes.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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