Guide to Grand Teton National Park
Plan the perfect trip to Grand Teton National Park with this complete travel guide! Featuring everything you need to know before you go.
After spending a month exploring Colorado, Hiking the Blue Lakes Trail, Riding Durango’s Scenic Train Through Cascade Canyon, and visiting every national park, we finally made it to Grand Teton National Park! The picturesque snow capped mountains, pristine blue waters, and breathtaking views make this park one of our favorites we’ve visited.
Grand Teton’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park make this area a great roadtrip destination. If you have just one day or a few days to spare, Grand Teton National Park is a great place to visit.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
About Grand Teton
Getting to Grand Teton
When to Visit
What to Bring
Amenities Nearby
Top Things to Do
ABOUT GRAND TETON
Grand Teton is a 310,000 acre national park located in northwestern Wyoming. It was established in 1929 and is the 17th national park in the US. The park is known for the Teton Range, the youngest mountain range in the Rocky Mountains and features breathtaking blue lakes, winding rivers, and ancient glaciers. The park offers over 200 miles of hiking trails, 1,000 campsites, boating, wildlife viewing, and 40 miles of scenic roads.
No reservations are required to visit Grand Teton National Park.
ENTRANCE FEE
$35 per vehicle which is valid for 7 days. You can also use the America the Beautiful Pass to enter for free.
PET POLICY
Pets must be leashed at all times and no longer than 6 feet in length. They are only allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots, and along park roads. They aren’t allowed on any trails inside Grand Teton National Park.
GETTING TO GRAND TETON
Grand Teton is located in northwestern Wyoming, tucked in between the charming town of Jackson Hole and the popular Yellowstone National Park. The Caribou Targhee National Forest encompasses the northwestern slope of the Teton Range, while the Bridger-Teton National Forest borders the east, and the National Elk Refuge lies in the south. Together Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and the surrounding National Forests create The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest mid latitude ecosystems on earth covering 18 million acres.
Jackson Hole - 5 miles or 7 minutes
Yellowstone National Park - 7 miles or 10 minutes
Idaho Falls,ID - 94 miles or 2 hours
Bozeman, MT - 165 miles or 3.5 hours
Salt Lake City, UT - 282 miles or 4.5 hours
Denver,CO - 482 miles or 7.5 hours
NEAREST AIRPORTS
Jackson Hole Airport
WHEN TO VISIT
SPRING & SUMMER
Rain and snow are common during April, May, and June. Many lakes are still frozen as snow usually covers the park until late May. Summers in Rocky Mountain are the busiest time for the park. Temperatures are warm with the average in the 70s and 80s. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently in July and August. All park activities, amenities, and ranger programs are available.
FALL & WINTER
Fall brings crispy sunny days with cold nights. Rain and snow may occur during this time. December to April, snow covers the park. Most services and amenities available in the park are closed. Vehicles with 4x4, all wheel drive, or all weather tires are recommend when exploring. Wildlife is often seen around the park during winter months.
Check the park website for current open and closure dates.
WHAT TO BRING
Plenty of Water
Be sure to pack extra water and stay hydrated while exploring. We love adding LMNT’s electrolyte packets to our insulated water bottles to stay hydrated for the whole day.
Hiking Shoes
While there are many easy paths to explore in Grand Teton there are a few trails that are rocky and steep. To have the most comfortable experience on the trails we recommend wearing a proper hiking shoe or boot to provide traction and support.
Sun Protectant
Weather can be unpredictable in the park so it’s best to bring your favorite sunscreen and wear sun protectant clothing when exploring.
Hiking Sticks
These have been a LIFE SAVER. Hiking sticks are so helpful in giving you extra support as you climb up steep trails as well as coming down steep trails. They provide extra stability and we no longer hike without them.
First Aid Kit
It’s never a bad idea to carry a small first aid kit while exploring in Grand Teton. Cell service doesn’t really exist in the park so it’s good to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Crampons
In case there’s snow on the trails, it’s a good idea to carry a pair of crampons so you don’t slip on ice or snow.
Jacket
Temperatures at higher elevations can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler so its not a bad idea to carry a warm jacket with you.
Lunch / Snacks
It is highly recommended to pick a lunch and snacks when exploring Grand Teton. The parks amenities are a good distance apart and you don't want to be an hours drive from the next general store.
AMENITIES NEARBY
IN THE PARK
VISITOR CENTERS
Open seasonally and a great place to start your adventure in Grand Teton. Load up on info, pick up a park map, and get exploring. Here you can also find water filling stations, restrooms, gift shop, and museum exhibits. Hours and services vary by season so it’s best to check for current conditions before planning a trip.
Four visitor centers are found throughout the park:
Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center
Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center
Jenny Lake Visitor Center
Colter Bay Visitor Center
CAMPGROUNDS
There are 8 developed campgrounds throughout Grand Teton National Park. Available May to October, all campgrounds require reservations which can be may up to 6 months in advance. Amenities vary from each campground.
Gros Ventre
Jenny Lake
Signal Mountain
Lizard Creek
Headwaters
Colter Bay RV Park, Tent Village, and Campground
Reservations can be made at recreation.gov.
LODGING
There are several lodging accommodations available inside Grand Teton National Park. Typically available May to October.
American Alpine Club Grand Teton Climbers' Ranch
Colter Bay Cabins
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Jackson Lake Lodge
Jenny Lake Lodge
Signal Mountain Lodge
Triangle X Ranch
Visit the park website for more info on lodging in Grand Teton National Park.
FOOD & DRINKS
There are a variety of food options available in Grand Teton.
Leeks Pizzeria
Ranch House
Cafe Court
Blue Heron Lounge
Pioneer Grill
Mural Room
Deadman’s Bar
Trappers Grill
Jenny Lake Lodge Dining
Headwaters Lodge Dining
TOWNS NEARBY
JACKSON HOLE
A charming mountain town located on the south side of Grand Teton National Park. Known for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, one of the top ski destinations in the country, and Jackson Square, it’s downtown shopping center offering local shops and laidback dining.
LODGING
Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa
Huff House Inn & Cabins
Flat Creek Inn
Elk Refuge Inn
Snake River Lodge & Spa
Amangani
Spring Creek Ranch
Hampton Inn
The Jackson Southtown Motel
Super 8
RV PARKS
Virginian RV Park
Fireside Resort
Snake River Cabins & RV Village
FOOD
Mangy Moose Steakhouse & Saloon
Piste Mountain Bistro
Snake River Grill
Sidewinders American Grill
Spur Restaurant & Bar
Thai Plate
Liberty Burger
El Abuelito Family Restaurant
Local Restaurant & Bar
TOP THINGS TO DO
CHECK OUT A VISITOR CENTER
Start your exploration of Grand Teton National Park at a one of the visitor centers. Grab a park map & check out the park movie & exhibit. Stop at the restroom and get the latest scoop from the park ranger. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir at the park store.
GET ON A TRAIL
A great way to explore the incredible nature of Grand Teton National Park. Whether it’s an easy scenic stroll or a challenging day hike, Grand Teton has something for everyone. The most popular in the park are Jenny Lake Loop, Cascade Canyon, Delta Lake, and Taggart Lake.
For easy trails consider | Taggart Lake, Colter Bay Lakeshore, Leigh Lake, Schwabacher Landing
For moderate trails consider | Cascade Canyon, Inspiration Point, Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, Bradley Lake, Phelps Lake, String Lake
For strenuous trails consider | Delta Lake, Surprise & Amphitheater Lakes, Lake Solitude
SCENIC DRIVE
If you’re not interested in hiking then you must drive the Teton Park Road. This scenic 20 mile stretch of road winds along the base of the Teton Range, offering plenty of scenic pullouts, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Other notable scenic drives in Grand Teton is Moose -Wilson Road, Signal Mountain Summit Road, and the Jenny Lake scenic drive.
FISHING
One of the parks most popular activities is fishing in the pristine lakes and rivers of Grand Teton. A Wyoming fishing license is required and can be purchased online or at Flagg Ranch, Colter Bay Marina, and Signal Mountain Lodge.
For more information about fishing in Grand Teton National Park, visit the park website.
CLIMBING
For those looking for a thrilling experience in Grand Teton, summit one of the towering peaks along the Teton Range. Permits can be picked up from the Jenny Lake Ranger Station from June to September.
For more information about climbing in Grand Teton National Park, visit the park website.
GET ON THE WATER
Grand Teton National Park is home to numerous crystal clear blue lakes which make getting out on the water a popular way to tour this park. June to September, learn about the history and geology of Grand Teton on a scenic cruise around Jackson Lake. Or rent a kayak and tour the waters String Lake and Jenny Lake at your own pace. Rentals are available at the Colter Bay Marina. If you are bringing your own watercraft, permits are required and can be purchased at Moose or Colter Bay Visitor Centers, as well as, getting an Aquatic Invasive Species Inspection.
For more information about boating in Grand Teton National Park, visit the park website.
BACKPACK THE WILDERNESS
For a more in depth exploration of Grand Teton National Park pick up a backpacking permit and tour the parks remote wilderness. This is a great way to avoid the crowds and experience the incredible night sky. For more information about back country camping, check out the park website.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Grand Teton National Park is one of the top national parks for wildlife viewing. The park is home to over 60 species of mammals, including, moose, elk, bison, deer, and of course the grizzly bear. Remember to stay at least 75 feet away when viewing wildlife. Popular wildlife viewing spots are Schwabacher Landing and Jenny Lake.
BICYCLING
For a scenic bike ride like no other, hop on the parks multi-use path and ride along the base of the Teton Range. The path runs from Jenny Lake all the way to the town of Jackson with breathtaking views of the glacier covered mountains, expansive fields, and possible wildlife spotting.
For more information about biking in Grand Teton National Park, visit the park website.
PARKS AS CLASSROOMS
What better way to learn then by bringing the classroom to the park! The National Park System provides a series of curriculum covering topics such a math, science, social studies, and language arts for elementary and middle school learners. A great option for homeschooling or field trips.
JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM
If you’re not able to plan a visit to Grand Teton National Park then this is great way for you’re kids to still learn about the park without actually being there. The Virtual Junior Ranger Program consists of a series of videos and activities to complete with a Virtual Badge to be given at the end.
Let us know in the comments if you’ve ever been to Grand Teton National Park!
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HEY THERE!
WE’RE MIKE & DEANDRA.
Two adventure seekers traveling the U.S in our 37 FT. travel trailer with our two companions, Griffin & Lucy. We share our life on the road and travel guides to our favorite destinations.
This post contains affiliate links, so we may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site at no additional cost to you.
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