Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Grand Teton National Park

Towering sharp mountain peaks, marshy riverbanks, and wild dusty plains, Grand Teton National Park has it all.

Located on the western border of Wyoming and south of the famous Yellowstone National Park, this short mountain range is one of America’s most iconic western images.

History of the Park:

Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding Jackson Hole area have been inhabited for thousands of years. The land was originally inhabited by the nomadic paleo Indians, and then later settled by fur trappers who were chasing the wealth of the West. The town of Jackson Hole began to be known for its fine fur coats, bags, and hats, which by the 1950s attracted wealthy easterners who wanted a ‘cowboy experience’.

The national park itself took decades to establish. In the 1920s, the mountain range was declared protected, but slowly, landowners began to donate what they owned at the base of the mountain range for conservation and protection.

Key Things to Remember when Visiting:

This is Bear County; either rent or purchase a bear spray in advance. It is a must.

Crime is high in the neighboring Yellowstone National Park, so lock up your valuables and your car.

Weather and temperature changes frequently, especially in the summertime, expect hot days and cold nights.

What to do in the Park:

The park is very accessible by car and can be driven through with ease during the warmer months.

The beginning and entrance of the park on the southern side hold the Jackson Hole airport, the Elk Refuge, and Mormon Row. All of these sights are accessible without a national park pass or without paying the entrance fee.

Drive through sights:

Elk Refuge – an extra entrance fee on the southern border of the park

Mormon Row – Historic wooden barns on the picturesque plains before the towering mountains

The Chapel of Transfiguration – a small wooden church with incredible mountain views.

Places to get out and explore:

Oxbow Bend – Right along the marshy riverbed of the Snake River

Jenny Lake – The best place for hiking, for all skill levels

String Lake – Best place to take a swim

Take a wildlife tour:

Want to see some animals in action? From a safe distance, of course. Hire a local guide to show you around the hidden parts of the park to encounter Bison, Bears, and Elk.

Horseback Riding:

One of the most popular activities is easily experiencing the Tetons on horseback! Take in the vast mountain peaks, lush valleys, and riverbanks like a cowboy. Pick from a few hours on a beginner ride to full-day long explorations of the National Park and the surrounding forests.

Guided Fishing Trip:

Don’t want to pack all of your fishing gear and want to catch a big one? Try a guided fishing tour, allow a local guide to show you the best spots, and provide all you could need for your Wyoming fishing experience.

For Winter Trips, you can also try:

Dog Sledding and Snowmobiling Combo Trip:

Looking for something a bit more unique? Suit up in your winter gear, and set out dog-sledding in view of the Grand Tetons. Then switch to a snowmobile for a high-speed excursion through the snowy valleys. (all ethicality ran)

Where to Stay:

Camping at Colter Bay Campground is a MUST when visiting, but if you aren’t feeling that adventurous, some options in the national park are:

Colter Bay Village

Six Heart Ranch

Rustic Retreat

Jackson Lake Lodge

What to Skip:

Very Controversial, but I think that skipping Schwabacher Landing is ok. The drive to the viewpoint is on a one-lane, unpaved, uneven road covered in potholes, and it is extremely busy. Yes, the view is beautiful, but there are many easy-to-access viewpoints right next to this one that have just as beautiful a view.

I’ll see you,