Contents
Grand Teton National Park | Introduction
Grand Teton National Park (Grand Teton National Park) is located in the northwestern part of Wyoming, USA, centered around the majestic Teton Mountain Range. It is adjacent to the famous Yellowstone National Park. The sharp peaks of the Teton Range tower into the clouds, with the most famous, Grand Teton, reaching a height of 13,770 feet (4,197 meters). The park covers over 310,000 acres and features vast valleys, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Not only is the scenery spectacular, but it’s also a paradise for outdoor activities. The park offers various hiking trails, while its major lakes, such as Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake, are ideal for water activities.
The best time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities.
🛒 How to get ready? hiking boots
Grand Teton National Park | Transportation
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Grand Teton National Park is by flying into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), the only commercial airport located within a national park in the United States. Direct flights to Jackson Hole are available from many major U.S. cities such as Salt Lake City or Denver. Upon arrival, the stunning mountains greet you as soon as you step off the plane, and the park entrance is only about a 15-minute drive away, making it very convenient.
If you choose to drive from other cities, the nearest large city, Salt Lake City, is about a 4.5 to 5-hour drive away. The scenery along the way is beautiful, especially as you enter Wyoming, where vast prairies and mountains come into view, making the journey itself an enjoyable experience.
Within the park, renting a car or driving yourself is the most convenient way to get around. You’ll want to be able to stop and take in the breathtaking views and adjust your itinerary flexibly.
Grand Teton National Park | Accommodations
Accommodation within the park is concentrated near Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake. Lodges within the park, such as Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge, offer spectacular views and comprehensive facilities, but they are very popular in the summer, so it's recommended to book several months in advance. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are several great campgrounds within the park, such as Jenny Lake Campground and Colter Bay Campground, which are convenient places to camp, and also need to be booked in advance during peak season.
If you plan to stay in town, the town of Jackson Hole, located south of the park, is the best place to stay. It's close to the airport and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from resorts to budget hotels.
Find a stay in Jackson Hole:
Accommodation | Colter Bay Tent Cabin
We stayed at Colter Bay Tent Cabins near Jackson Lake. The tent cabins are situated in the middle of the forest, so we felt like we were in the nature. Inside the tent, there are two bunk beds and simple furniture, although simple, the facilities are still more comfortable than tent camping, especially the mattress is much softer than expected. It retains the sense of adventure of camping, but you still need to bring your own sleeping bag. The location of Colter Bay Tent Cabins is fantastic, with easy access to major hiking trails and the lake. The campground is conveniently located near stores and restaurants.
Grand Teton National Park | Suggested Itinerary
If it's your first time visiting Grand Teton National Park and you're planning to explore by car, you can consider a one- or two-day trip. The park’s routes are quite straightforward. Refer to the National Park's map, which shows that the main roads, Teton Park Road and Highway 191, form a scenic loop passing Jenny Lake on the west and the eastern bank of the Snake River. Along the way, there are many beautiful viewpoints. The southern end of the road leads to the town of Jackson Hole, while the northern end of Teton Park Road continues northward, connecting to Yellowstone National Park.
If you only have one day, the simplest route is to drive around the loop road. If you have two days, it's recommended to divide the scenic loop into three areas: the west side (Jenny Lake), the east side (Moose area), and the north side (Colter Bay/Jackson Lake). Choose the trails you're interested in based on your stamina. If you have more time, you can also plan a trip that includes Yellowstone National Park.
Here’s a sample two-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Drive around the scenic loop, spending the morning exploring the western part. Once you reach Jenny Lake, take a boat to the park's most famous Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. In the afternoon, continue to the eastern part, visiting historic sites such as the Mormon Row Historic District and Menors Ferry Historic District. Take your time to enjoy the scenery at the various viewpoints along the way.
- Day 2: Start early at Jenny Lake to spot wildlife, then head to the Colter Bay area and Jackson Lake Lodge. You can spend more time on your favorite trails. After the day ends, head north to continue your trip at Yellowstone National Park.
Grand Teton National Park | Attractions
Jenny Lake Area
The main lakes in Grand Teton National Park include Jenny Lake to the south and Jackson Lake to the north, with Jenny Lake being the more popular among visitors. By driving along the loop road and turning onto Jenny Lake Drive, you’ll reach the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. The most famous attractions here are Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, which can be reached by hiking around the lake or by taking a boat to cut 2 miles off the walking distance. The boat is very popular, so if you plan to take it on your return trip, it's advisable to go in the morning during peak season to avoid long wait times.
Must-See Trail | Discovery Trail
Whether or not you take the boat, the Discovery Trail in front of the Jenny Lake Visitor Center is a must-do.
Once you reach the lakeshore, you can choose to connect to the Lakeshore Trail, which has three scenic viewpoints on the south side of the lake. The glacial lake is crystal clear, reflecting the towering peaks, making for a picture-perfect scene.
Activity | Jenny Lake Ferry
You can easily walk along the Discovery Trail to the east boat dock to purchase boat tickets. Boarding is on a first-come, first-served basis, and tickets are sold at the ferry dock. The 2024 ticket prices are $20 round trip for adults, $12 for children, and $17 for seniors. There are plenty of boat trips, so you usually won't have to wait long for the outbound trip. Taking the boat allows you to enjoy the lake and see a different side of Jenny Lake, making it a worthwhile experience. In addition to the ferry, there is also an option to take a boat tour around the lake. It's recommended to arrive early; otherwise, if you also plan to take the boat back, you should be prepared to wait for about an hour due to the crowds.
Once you arrive at the West boat dock, you can hike to the next stop, Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, while enjoying the forest scenery along the way.
Must-See | Hidden falls
Hidden Falls is the most popular attraction in the Jenny Lake area. From the ferry drop-off point, it's about a 1-mile hike to reach this spectacular waterfall hidden in the forest. This section of the trail is not difficult. The waterfall is about 100 feet high, and during the spring snowmelt, the water flow is at its peak. The roaring sound of the water and the fresh air provide a relaxing experience.
Must-See | Inspiration point
Continuing up the mountain from Hidden Falls, you can reach Inspiration Point at an elevation of 7,200 feet. This section of the trail is more challenging, with some steeper and narrower parts, but it's not too difficult. Inspiration Point is located on the cliffside above Jenny Lake, offering a panoramic view of the entire lake and the Teton Range. The stunning landscape of the lake and mountains is best enjoyed in the early morning or at dusk when the sunlight illuminates the mountains, creating mesmerizing light and shadow effects.
🛒 How to get ready? trekking pole
Trails | Moose Pond Trail
Moose Pond Trail is located near Jenny Lake and is a 3-mile loop trail. This trail is less crowded, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature. It's also the best spot to see moose.
The trail winds through lush forests and open meadows, eventually leading to two tranquil ponds known as Moose Ponds. In the early morning, it's common to see moose foraging here.
Moose Area
The Moose area, located in the southeastern part of the park, is a key area for historical buildings. You can reach it by driving along the loop road. Here, you'll find the Chapel of the Transfiguration and the iconic Moulton Barn.
Attraction | Chapel of the transfiguration
The Chapel of the Transfiguration, built in 1925, is located at the southern end of the Moose area. The chapel's simple design complements the stunning mountain views, with the Teton Range framed like a picture through the church's window.
Attraction | Menors Ferry Historic District
The Menors Ferry Historic District, just across the street from the Chapel of the Transfiguration, is a historic site that preserves late 19th and early 20th century historic buildings and the restored Menors Ferry. The ferry here was once a major mode of transportation across the Snake River and was established in 1894 by early pioneer Bill Menor. The historic buildings we see today include the Menor's store, farmhouse, and more. Take a short walk along this short trail to get a feel for what life was like for pioneers in the 1800's and to get up close and personal with the Snake River.
Attraction | Mormon Row Historic District
Mormon Row preserves several farmhouses and barns built by Mormon pioneers in the late 19th century, and its iconic scenery attracts many visitors. The light here is particularly beautiful at dawn and dusk. Mormon Row has two parking lots, north and south. The most famous building in the north is the Pink House, which has a somewhat romantic story. The house is pink because the husband painted it pink as a surprise for his wife while she was away for a long trip to the hospital (which was quite a time-consuming journey in those days). When she returned, she found the color unattractive, but she was still touched by the gesture, so they kept it.
However, the most famous spot in Mormon Row is actually the TA Moulton Barn near the south parking lot. This is a must-capture classic American Western scene for photographers, where the Teton Range perfectly complements the historic buildings. The light here is also particularly beautiful at dawn and dusk.
Colter Bay / Jackson Lake Area
Jackson Lake, a massive glacial lake in the northern part of the park, covers 25,540 acres and is less crowded than Jenny Lake. If you want to explore Jackson Lake more deeply, you can continue driving north along Teton Park Road toward Yellowstone Park. The main visitor area is located on the lakeshore at Colter Bay, where water sports enthusiasts can rent a kayak or boat at Colter Bay Marina to navigate the lake.
Trail | Colter bay Lakeshore Trail
The easiest way to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery of Jackson Lake is on the Lakeshore Trail behind the Colter Bay Visitor Center. This easy trail circles the lakeshore of Colter Bay, covering about 2 miles, making it ideal for a leisurely family walk immersed in the natural beauty. You'll easily find quiet spots along the trail to sit and enjoy the serenity of the lake, and you'll also pass by a lakeside beach where you can get close to the water. The trailhead is right next to the main dock on Jackson Lake, making it convenient for kayaking and other water activities.
Viewpoint | Jackson Lake Overlook
Jackson Lake Overlook is located on Teton Park Road and offers a panoramic view of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. From here, you can see the blue-green waters of the lake contrasting with the towering peaks in the background.
Attraction | Jackson Lake Lodge
Jackson Lake Lodge is located on the northern shore of Jackson Lake. In addition to being a luxurious place to stay, the lodge's spectacular viewing platform is also worth a visit. From the large windows inside the lodge, you can get an unobstructed view of the vast Jackson Lake and the towering Teton Range in the background, making it one of the best viewpoints in the park.
Trail | Lunch Tree Hill
The trail behind Jackson Lake Lodge offers an easy walk. From this trail, you can climb the small hill known as Lunch Tree Hill. The name comes from the Rockefeller family, who once picnicked here in the 19th century. From the hilltop, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Jackson Lake.
Teton Park Road Loop | Scenic Stops
Even if you only have a couple of hours to spend in Grand Teton National Park, driving along Teton Park Road to enjoy the scenery is satisfying. Along this loop road, in addition to the previously mentioned Jenny Lake and Moose areas, there are many other viewpoints and small attractions worth stopping at, listed below.
Attraction | Jackson Lake Dam
Jackson Lake Dam is a man-made dam that spans the southern end of Jackson Lake. Originally constructed in 1906, it was part of an early water project in the western United States to provide a steady source of irrigation water for the agricultural areas downstream. For visitors, the top of Jackson Lake Dam also provides a unique vantage point for spectacular views of the Teton Mountains and Jackson Lake. The view is best in the early morning. During our visit, the view was a bit hazy due to the neighboring wildfires.
Attraction | Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Chapel of the Sacred Heart is located on the western shore of Jackson Lake. This church was built in 1937 by the local Catholic community. Although small, the church's exterior is made of logs, giving it a very rustic appearance. The interior is also predominantly wooden, making it serene and cozy. This simple beauty, combined with the surrounding peaceful and majestic natural scenery, creates a profound sense of tranquility.
Viewpoint | Potholes Turnout
Potholes Turnout is named for its unique terrain, with many small potholes scattered across the ground, formed by glacial activity and melting. From Potholes Turnout, you can enjoy views of the Teton Range. It's a quieter spot, away from the main attractions.
Viewpoint | Must Stop | Mt Moran Turnout
Mt. Moran is a prominent peak in the Teton Range, standing at 12,610 feet. Mt Moran Turnout is the best spot to view the stunning scenery of Mt. Moran. Here, you can clearly see the entire mountain, making it a must-stop for visitors. The mountain is covered with glaciers, with one area on the left known as the Falling Glacier, which appears as if it’s slightly falling.
Viewpoint | Mountain View Turnout
Mountain View Turnout offers a broad perspective, allowing you to take in the grand panorama of the Teton Range and the forests and meadows at its base. From here, you can see several famous peaks, including Grand Teton and Mt. Moran, making it an excellent spot for capturing a wide view of the mountains.
Viewpoint | Cathedral Group Turnout
Cathedral Group Turnout is located just as you turn onto Jenny Lake Drive and is definitely worth a stop. Because of its proximity to Jenny Lake, it's a popular viewpoint. From here, you can clearly see several towering peaks, including Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot Mountain, representing the quintessential scenery of the Teton Range. This viewpoint gets its name because the steep cliffs and sharp peaks resemble the spires of a cathedral, giving the area a majestic and sacred feel.
Viewpoint | Must Stop | Jenny Lake Overlook
Jenny Lake Overlook is one of the closest viewpoints to the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Many people stop here to rest, picnic, and take in the view of Jenny Lake. This is indeed a great spot because from this viewpoint, you can see the clear lake water reflecting the towering Teton Range behind it.
Trails | Must See | Schwabacher Landing
Schwabacher Landing is located on the eastern side of the Snake River, closer to the Moose area. To reach this trail, you need to drive a short distance on a dirt road, but once you reach the end, you'll arrive at my favorite viewpoint in the entire park. This spot is actually a beaver dam, a natural reservoir created by wildlife. The calm river water acts like a mirror, perfectly reflecting the Teton Range behind it, creating a breathtaking natural scene.
Viewpoint | Must Stop | Teton Point
Teton Point Overlook offers a panoramic view of the majestic Teton Range, making it a must-stop for those driving through the park. From here, you can see several towering peaks, including Grand Teton and Mt. Moran, standing like a barrier above the vast plains and wetlands below. The scenery is magnificent and grand. In the spring and fall, elk and bison are often seen here.
Viewpoint | Snake River Overlook
Snake River Overlook is widely known due to the iconic black-and-white photo taken by the famous photographer Ansel Adams in 1942. The photo captures the winding Snake River with the towering mountains in the background, symbolizing the beauty of the American West. From Snake River Overlook, you can see the Snake River winding through the forest, with the river resembling a silver ribbon quietly leading towards the distant Teton Range. However, the forest is much denser now than it was back then, so you'll need to climb a bit higher to see a view comparable to that in the historic photo.
Viewpoint | Oxbow Bend Turnout
Oxbow Bend Turnout is located at a bend in the Snake River, where the river forms a graceful U-shaped curve, resembling a natural water mirror that perfectly reflects the Teton Range, especially the figure of Mt. Moran. The best time to capture the reflection of the Teton Range in the water is in the early morning. Oxbow Bend is also an ideal spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of beavers, moose, ducks, and herons.
Grand Teton National Park | Food & Beverage
Grand Teton National Park offers a wide range of dining options, from more affordable to high-end restaurants. However, if you plan to visit upscale restaurants like Jackson Lake Lodge and Jenny Lake Lodge, it's best to make reservations in advance. Below are reviews of three restaurants.
John Colter's Ranch House
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$$
This is an American-style restaurant located in Colter Bay, offering a variety of dishes including burgers, steaks, and more. We also tried the venison pasta. The taste was fairly standard, and the price is relatively affordable compared to other restaurants in U.S. national parks.
John Colter Bay Pizzeria
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$
Also located in Colter Bay, this pizza place offers a few simple meal options and is reasonably priced. The freshly baked pizza was delicious and was probably the best meal we had on our entire trip.
Jackson Lake Lodge Dining Room
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$$$$
Dining at Jackson Lake Lodge can actually be considered a sightseeing experience. The main attraction of this restaurant is the fine dining experience with the magnificent Grand Teton mountain views. The food and service did not disappoint and were above average.
Further reading
- More U.S. National Parks
- More Wyoming posts
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