Grand Teton National Park will leave you speechless. It encompasses a 40-mile length of the vast Rocky Mountains, only 10 miles south of Yellowstone, and is a marvel of gnarled and twisted rock spires that rise to almost 4,100 metres above sea level. But this isn’t just about soaring peaks. Wildflower meadows, elk-strewn woodlands, and swaying rivers are among the landscapes. It’s a beautiful representation of what the western United States might have looked like in the days of the early settlers.
This huge Wyoming national park has been a magnet for adventurers of all kinds since its founding in 1929. It has become a climbing mecca due to the attractiveness of its highest peaks (particularly the Cathedral Group). Safari enthusiasts come to the backcountry in search of moose, elk, and elusive cougars. Trampers can choose from a variety of tracks, ranging from gentle strolls around mirror-like lakes to strenuous treks to glaciers. Furthermore, if you’re up for a 4,000-foot vertical drop, nearby Jackson Hole is one of America’s best skiing resorts.
Where is Grand Teton National Park?
The Grand Teton National Park can be thought of as an outgrowth of the massive Yellowstone National Park. It’s only 10 miles to the north of that famous preserve. Despite the fact that they are technically separate, the two parks are integral parts of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway connects them (it’s a lovely drive!). Grant Teton, in general, is located on Wyoming’s north-eastern border. The Idaho border stretches along one side, while the Bridger-Teton National Forest extends along with the other. To the south are the ski runs of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
How to get there?
I-15 (north-south) or I-80 (east-west) are two options for getting to the Tetons’ craggy peaks (west-east). From there, you have a few alternatives for finishing the journey. You may take the 191 all the way to Jackson Hole (best for skiers). You might travel through Alpine on Highway 89. You might also take the beautiful route on the 33 from Idaho, which passes past spruce-topped peaks and snow-dusted hills.
The closest place to fly in is Jackson Hole Airport (which offers connections to DFW, Salt Lake City, and Chicago O’Hare, to name a few). From the arrival port, a five-mile drive will take you straight to the Snake River.
Park Weather
To put it nicely, the weather is anything but predictable thus far up on the Continental Divide’s crest. Mid-summer snowstorms can perplex even the most seasoned meteorologists. However, the seasons have a significant impact on the amount of visitors to Grand Teton National Park. Spring, summer, and autumn are the most popular months for visitors.
The busiest and warmest months are July and August, with highs in the upper 70s. Tramping enthusiasts may favour May or September because the weather is cooler, there is more rain, and there are fewer people. Winter may be ideal for skiing and truly escaping the rat race, but be prepared for blizzards and sub-zero temps.
Park Timings
The Grand Teton National Park is accessible all year. It never closes, that’s for sure. Isn’t it appealing? Not so quickly! The truth, though, is a little different. In reality, the weather has a big impact on how well you arrange your trip. Most roads into the park will be open throughout the popular summer and fall months. Winter and early spring, on the other hand, can see the entire area covered in snow, with key access routes only reopening after the thaw. The best thing to do is check the National Park Service website for updates right before your trip.
Park Entrance Fee
The breathtaking views of Grand Teton aren’t free. The reserve is accessible by road for a fee of $35 per car and $30 for a motorcycle. If you’re walking into the park on one of the numerous paths that come in from all angles, you can get a permit for just $20. All the above are good for seven days, which should be plenty of time to see everything from the Snake River to Jackson Lake (assuming you have wheels!). In the winter, a single-day entrance is only $15 per vehicle.
Grand Teton National Park Hiking Trails
Teton Valley Trail
Teton Crest Trail
Lakeshore Trail
Death Canyon Trail
Taggart Lake Trail
Jenny Lake Trail
Static Peak Divide Trail
Cascade Canyon Trail
Amphitheater Lake Trail
Hermitage Point Trail
Grand Teton National Park Landmarks
Snake River
Phelps Lake
Taggart Lake
Antelope Flats
Jenny Lake
Where to Stay
The lodging possibilities in Grand Teton National Park are extensive and varied, ranging from modern hotel rooms and rustic cabins to hostel-style bunk rooms and gorgeous tent locations. All have beautiful natural locations and easy access to park attractions. At lodges like Jackson Lake Lodge and Jenny Lake Lodge, expect to pay a premium. Reservations are available a year in advance and frequently sell out.
In the park, the American Alpine Club offers a low-cost non-camping option. The Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch offers hostel-style lodging with bunk rooms, common cook space, and bathhouses.
Only an advanced reservation system is available for all campsites in the park. The park has six campgrounds, some of which include pay showers, full hookups, and camper cottages. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance.