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Grand Teton National Park is a beacon of natural beauty located in the state of Wyoming, USA, and serves as a sanctuary for countless species of wildlife and flora. Its centerpiece, the Teton Range, is a geological marvel where the youngest mountains in the Rocky Mountains chain command the skyline with their rugged profiles. The park covers approximately 310,000 acres and includes the majestic Grand Teton, which soars to 13,775 feet, making it a cherished destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Mormon Row Historic District stands testament to the area’s human history, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of early settlers through its well-preserved homesteads. Visitors are often greeted by the iconic scene of the Teton peaks rising dramatically behind the historic barns, a sight frequently captured by photographers.
The park isn’t just eye candy for the casual tourist; it’s a hotspot for outdoor activities too. Whether you’re looking to hike, paddle, climb or simply sit back and appreciate the alpine environment, the park is a year-round playground. With around 2.8 million visitors in 2022, it’s clear that the park’s combination of natural wonders and recreational opportunities is a major draw.
In the grand tapestry of America’s national parks, Grand Teton National Park stands out with a mix of serenity and ruggedness that captures the heart of the wild American West. Whether arriving for the striking geography or the serene lakes, the park does not disappoint.
Top 3 Facts about Grand Teton National Park
Youngest Mountain Range
Grand Teton National Park is home to the youngest mountain range in the Rocky Mountains. The Tetons, formed around six to nine million years ago, are geologically unique due to their dramatic vertical relief, rising abruptly from the surrounding Jackson Hole valley floor.
Diverse Wildlife
Wildlife enthusiasts flock to Grand Teton National Park for its abundant and diverse fauna. The park is home to iconic species such as grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, bison, wolves, and bald eagles, among others. The park’s extensive network of trails and scenic drives provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Dark Sky Preserve
Grand Teton National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal destination for stargazers and astrophotographers. The park’s remote location, high elevation, and limited light pollution provide optimal conditions for viewing the Milky Way, constellations, and meteor showers against the backdrop of the Tetons.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Youth Conservation
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Grand Teton National Park rewards those who plan thoughtfully. Entry fees, backcountry permits, and peak-season lodging can book out months in advance, so secure campsites and accommodations early—especially for June through September. Popular spots like Jenny Lake Lodge and Jackson Lake Lodge fill quickly, but Lake.com offers a curated selection of stays nearby, from boutique cabins to luxury ranch resorts. Download trail maps and the official NPS app before arrival, and check for seasonal road closures, especially in spring and late fall. Be sure to make reservations for guided float trips on the Snake River or wildlife safaris in Teton Park Road. Traveling with family or a group? Consider booking a private ranger-led tour or horseback ride to Hidden Falls. With a little foresight, you’ll maximize your time among the Tetons’ granite cathedrals, glacial lakes, and expansive alpine meadows. This is a trip where planning equals more freedom.
Pack Appropriately
In the Tetons, layers are your best friend. Mornings can be brisk—even in July—while afternoons bring strong sun at elevation. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and top it with a waterproof shell. A wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are essential for daytime protection. Hiking boots should be broken in, not brand new, and a hydration system or water bottles are a must for any trail longer than three miles. Binoculars bring elk, bison, and even grizzlies into view, while bear spray is non-negotiable in this wilderness. For those visiting from mid-September through October, pack a lightweight puffer jacket and gloves. Bringing a compact picnic blanket and daypack allows for spontaneous scenic lunches by Taggart Lake or Signal Mountain. And don’t forget a reusable mug—many park lodges offer coffee refills and hot chocolate for eco-conscious travelers.
Respect Wildlife
Grand Teton’s sprawling ecosystem is home to black and grizzly bears, moose, elk, foxes, eagles, and wolves. It’s wild country—respect it. Always stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife. Never feed animals, no matter how curious or close they come. Use a zoom lens rather than stepping in for that perfect photo, and store all food (including gum, toothpaste, and wrappers) in bear-proof containers or provided food lockers at campsites. Hiking in groups, making noise, and carrying bear spray are essential for your safety and theirs. If you encounter an animal on a trail, calmly back away and give it space. Teach kids the “Look, Don’t Touch” rule early. Respecting wildlife isn’t just park policy—it’s about honoring the fragile balance that allows these incredible species to thrive alongside us in one of America’s last true wilderness sanctuaries.
Stay Informed
Conditions in the Tetons can change rapidly—from blue skies to summer hailstorms, or from open trails to wildfire closures. Your best resource? The National Park Service (NPS) website and visitor centers at Moose, Colter Bay, and Jenny Lake. Rangers post daily trail updates, bear activity alerts, and road closures. Cell service can be spotty, especially north of Jackson Lake, so download offline maps and the NPS Grand Teton app. For real-time updates, follow the park’s social media accounts and call the recorded road condition hotline. Before heading into the backcountry, register with a ranger station, even for day hikes. They’ll provide current snowpack conditions and recommend safe river crossings. Staying informed helps you explore responsibly and return safely. Bonus tip: Lake.com lodging listings include notes on Wi-Fi availability and access to local news channels—an easy way to stay in the loop while staying off the grid.
Seasons
Spring in Grand Teton is a season of awakening. From late April to early June, melting snow reveals lush valley floors and swelling rivers, while higher elevations remain blanketed in snow. Wildlife is highly active—watch for moose with newborn calves near Willow Flats or grizzlies grazing dandelions along the Oxbow Bend. Wildflowers like glacier lilies and balsamroot begin to bloom, and the migratory birds return in full chorus. Trails at lower elevations—like Taggart Lake or Bradley Lake—offer the best early-season access. Roads to Jenny Lake and Signal Mountain open as conditions permit, but Teton Park Road often remains closed to vehicles until May 1st—making it a dream route for cyclists and rollerbladers. Dress in warm, waterproof layers and expect muddy trails. While many park lodges are still closed, you’ll find excellent early-season deals on cabins and inns through Lake.com.
Summer is peak season in Grand Teton—and for good reason. From June through August, the park’s trails are largely snow-free, alpine lakes are swimmable, and wildlife sightings are plentiful. Hike to Inspiration Point, paddle Jackson Lake, or summit Grand Teton itself with a guide. You can spot elk calves in the meadows, bald eagles soaring above the Snake River, and bison grazing in Antelope Flats. Lodges, campgrounds, and ranger programs operate at full capacity. But with the beauty comes the bustle—trailheads like Jenny Lake and Taggart Lake can fill by 9 a.m. Beat the crowds by heading to lesser-known spots like Phelps Lake or the Death Canyon Shelf. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so start hikes early and pack rain gear. Book your lodging months in advance on Lake.com for the best selection. Whether you’re climbing peaks or stargazing by campfire, summer is when the Tetons come alive.
September through October brings golden aspen groves, crisp air, and a quieter pace to the Tetons. It’s a season of transformation—bull elk bugle across open meadows during the rut, bears feast in preparation for hibernation, and the cottonwoods blaze amber along the Snake River. Days remain pleasant into early fall, but mornings can dip below freezing, especially by mid-October. Wildlife watching is spectacular—visit Oxbow Bend at dawn for stunning reflections and a chance to spot moose in velvet. Trails are open, but higher routes like Paintbrush Divide may see early snow by October. Crowds drop significantly after Labor Day, making it easier to find lodging—even same-day deals through Lake.com. Many facilities begin to close by mid-October, so call ahead or check online before planning meals or ranger visits. Fall in Grand Teton is fleeting and unforgettable—perfect for photographers, solitude seekers, and leaf-peepers alike.
Winter transforms Grand Teton into a serene snowscape of icy peaks and silent forests. From November through March, visitors can explore the park on cross-country skis or snowshoes along groomed trails like Taggart Lake or the Moose-Wilson Road. Snowmobiling is allowed only in designated areas, while wildlife viewing shifts to the National Elk Refuge, where thousands of elk gather and sleigh rides depart from nearby Jackson. This season is about slowing down—watching foxes trot across meadows, or enjoying hot cocoa by a roaring fire. While most park lodges are closed, Lake.com features winter-ready rentals in Jackson Hole and Teton Village, many with fireplaces and ski-in/ski-out access to the world-renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Dress in layers, carry avalanche maps if heading into backcountry zones, and always check local forecasts before heading out. Grand Teton in winter is magical, hushed, and deeply rewarding for those willing to brave the cold.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Grand Teton National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Jackson, Wyoming, is a good choice because it’s located on the southern end of the park and offers various accommodations, activities, and easy access to the park’s entrances. Alternatively, you can stay in Teton Village or Wilson, which are just a few minutes from Jackson and provide a quieter experience with upscale amenities.
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Dogs are allowed in limited areas, such as on park roads, turnouts, campgrounds, and picnic areas, but they must be on a leash no longer than six feet and stay within 30 feet of the roadway. They are not permitted on trails, beaches, or in the backcountry, and cannot be left unattended. Dogs can also be taken into the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest trails and backcountry unless otherwise posted.
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Parking is free, but there is a fee to enter the park. Overnight parking at trailheads is only allowed with a backcountry permit.
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Grand Teton National Park was established on February 26, 1929, when President Calvin Coolidge signed an executive order creating the 96,000-acre park. In 1943, Franklin D. Roosevelt declared additional land in the valley as Jackson Hole National Monument, and in 1949, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. donated his purchased land to the government. In 1950, Congress combined the original park, the national monument, and the Rockefeller lands to form the current park.
