Official Grand Tetons Travel Guide

Official Grand Tetons Travel Guide

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, the Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking destination that promises awe-inspiring landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a casual traveler seeking natural beauty, the Grand Tetons offer something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from where to stay, places you need to see, the best hiking trails and tips for an unforgettable experience.

Where to stay

Unlike Yellowstone there aren’t near as many places to stay inside the park, so you’re most likely going to have to stay in a nearby town outside the park unless you book early and choose to spend a little more for the lavish experience to stay at the lodges inside the park. We’ll get into those options shortly, but first I will explain what we did and how we would do it again if we went back.

We visited the Grand Tetons on the same trip as Yellowstone. We stayed in an Airbnb in Idaho Falls after we toured all of Yellowstone. The Airbnb we stayed at was absolutely beautiful, right on the lake and overlooking some gorgeous mountains as soon as you stepped out of the place. It was really beautiful. However we did have an hour and a half drive to the west entrance of the park. The drive wasn’t so bad considering the entire ride we were just surrounded by mountains and rivers. We stopped at the top of this one mountain and got out of the car to overlook the destination ahead as pictured below.

Idaho Falls is an option if you’re looking to stay somewhere to save some money, as long as you’re ok with the long drive into the park. The main place people stay when visiting the Grand Tetons and a place I wish we had spent more time at is Jackson Hole.

Jackson Hole

• Located just outside the park, Jackson Hole serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the Grand Tetons. Here, you’ll find an array of accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to upscale resorts and a good amount of Airbnb’s.
• Explore the vibrant downtown area, filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants offering a taste of local cuisine. When we were in Jackson Hole we saw a free Jon Pardi concert in the town square and it was awesome to be around all the locals, drinking beer, wearing cowboy hats and boots etc and just vibing with the music and the locals.
• Also don’t miss the opportunity to experience the famous Jackson Hole Rodeo, a thrilling spectacle of cowboy culture and tradition. Again I wish we had stayed here for at least a day or two. We were only able to spend the day here before making the trek back to our Airbnb in Idaho Falls. Definitely recommend staying overnight, it’s a small town but there is a lot to do and it’s just a great experience, especially if you’re someone from the suburbs or a larger city, life out in Jackson Hole is so different it’s like a new country almost.
• They have zip line courses in the summer on the large ski hill directly overlooking the town, and if you’re going in the winter to go skiing there, prepare to be amazed, but also prepare to wait cause it’s a HUGE spot for people to visit to go on a ski trip.

Lodges within the Park:

• For an immersive experience amidst nature, consider staying at one of the lodges nestled within the boundaries of the Grand Tetons.
• Signal Mountain Lodge offers rustic cabins and rooms with stunning views of Jackson Lake, along with convenient access to hiking trails and water activities. While we didn’t stay at this particular lodge we did stop in here for a bite to eat at the “Deadman’s Bar.” Where of course I grabbed a local draft beer and a Bison Burger. The beer and Burger were both delicious and definitely hit the spot after we had hiked around Jenny Lake. After we had our lunch we were able to go outside and walk along the lake and take in the beautiful sights and scenery of the Tetons overlooking the water.
• You can also stay at Jenny Lake Lodge where they provide a more luxurious retreat, with historic cabins and gourmet dining options, making it perfect for a romantic getaway and if you wish to stay in a place that is much more central to the inside of the park so the driving distances wouldn’t be near as long. Of course you are going to pay a pretty penny for those lodges but it’s definitely a more exclusive experience.

Must-See Destinations

1. Jenny Lake:
   • One of the most iconic destinations in the park, Jenny Lake captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and towering peaks reflected in its mirror-like surface.
   • Get here EARLY! The parking lot fills up very quickly and many people parked on the road quite a distance away. We were lucky enough to catch a car pulling out of the lot as we were pulling in, but we had circled the lot for about 5-10 minutes before finding a spot
   • Embark on a scenic boat ride across the lake to access hiking trails leading to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This is another thing I wish we had done but simply did not have the time for. Access the boat as soon as you start walking on the main trail.
   • Tour the accessible and paved Discovery Trail that loops around the whole lake. The entire loop trail Is about 7 miles. We ended up hiking the entire thing. Saw some amazing waterfalls and rapids, as well as some Moose walking through an open field. Note that this trail is pretty narrow with a lot of wet jutted rocks and branches so definitely have some good hiking shoes for this trail. If you’re worried about bears, don’t be. This trail is so populated that you will not come across any bears on this hike.
   • Head up to Signal Mountain from here to grab a bite at the Deadman’s Bar. Drive up to Jackson’s Overlook to get a gorgeous overlook view of the Tetons and the surrounding towns.
   • If you are planning to make this stop in the evening that may be a good option as well. It will most likely be cooler, crowds will have died down and you can catch the sunset across the lake.
2. Schwabacher Landing:
   • Many photographers flock to Schwabacher Landing for its stunning reflections of the Grand Tetons in the calm waters of the Snake River. Make a stop here for a short photo op
   • Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting conditions and the chance to spot wildlife such as beavers, bald eagles, and moose.
3. Oxbow Bend:
   • Known for its sweeping views of the Snake River and the Teton Range, Oxbow Bend is a prime location for wildlife photography and birdwatching.
   • Keep your eyes peeled for elk, bison, and grizzly bears that frequent the area, particularly during the dawn and dusk hours.
4. Cascade Canyon:
   • Hiking enthusiasts will delight in the rugged beauty of Cascade Canyon, accessible via a boat shuttle across Jenny Lake or by hiking from the Jenny Lake Trailhead. you will pull into the same parking lot as Jenny Lake
   • Traverse through pine forests, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering cliffs as you make your way deeper into the canyon, with opportunities for wildlife sightings along the way.

There are many pull offs here as well for pictures and random trails that you can hike as well. the entire park is just really gorgeous especially in the middle of the day with the Sun reflecting off the Tetons. Take advantage of these pull offs and snap as many pictures as you can.

Top Hikes

1. Phelps Lake Hike:
   • Distance: Approximately 7.2 miles round trip
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Highlights: Pristine alpine lake, diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery
   • Description: The Phelps Lake Hike begins at the Death Canyon Trailhead and winds its way through a picturesque forest, gradually descending towards the shores of Phelps Lake. Along the way, hikers are treated to glimpses of the Tetons towering in the distance and the opportunity to spot wildlife such as deer, moose, and eagles. Upon reaching the lake, take a moment to soak in the tranquility of its crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings. For the adventurous, consider extending your hike by exploring the nearby Phelps Lake Overlook or continuing on to the mouth of Death Canyon for even more stunning views.
2. Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point:
   • Distance: Approximately 5 miles round trip (including boat ride)
   • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
   • Highlights: Scenic boat ride, majestic waterfall, panoramic vistas
   • Description: The journey to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point begins with a scenic boat ride across Jenny Lake, providing unparalleled views of the Tetons reflected in the pristine waters below. Upon disembarking at the West Shore boat dock, follow the well-marked trail as it gently ascends through pine forests and rocky terrain. After a short hike, you’ll arrive at Hidden Falls—a magnificent waterfall cascading down a series of granite cliffs, offering a refreshing mist and a perfect photo opportunity. From Hidden Falls, continue on to Inspiration Point, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Jenny Lake and the surrounding mountains. Take a moment to catch your breath and marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds you before retracing your steps back to the boat dock.
3. Jenny Lake Loop
   • As mentioned earlier we have the famous Jenny Lake Loop that goes around about a quarter of the entire lake. Along the way you are walking along the lake, able to go off trails to see Moose Ponds and other overviews, eventually ending at some beautiful waterfalls and rapids.
   • Distance: Approximately 7 miles round trip
   • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
   • Highlights: Spectacular lake views, hidden waterfalls, scenic vistas
   • Description: The full loop can be completed in a few hours, ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation make it a popular destination for a full day’s adventure.

Trail Tips

• Bring Plenty of Water: While the trail is relatively flat, the high altitude and sun exposure can lead to dehydration. Be sure to carry an ample supply of water to stay hydrated throughout your hike. If you’re like me who loves to hike but doesn’t have the best endurance then you will be sweating and wanting some water.
• Wear Sturdy Footwear: The trail may be rocky and uneven in some sections, so wearing sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction is recommended for comfort and safety.
• Pack Essentials: Don’t forget to pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks such as nuts, PB&J’s, granola bars berries etc. Be prepared for changing weather conditions by bringing layers and rain gear. you will need bear spray for some of these hikes. Not the Jenny Lake one.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and refrain from feeding or approaching animals. Remember that you are a guest in their natural habitat and should observe them from a respectful distance.

Food

1. Signal Mountain Deadman’s Bar
   • This is the place we stopped at for lunch. It’s your typical pub and bar food but it was delicious. We sat at the bar, there is outdoor seating with a nice view of the lake and mountains but unfortunately that seating was already full and so we sat at the bar. We had great service, great food and it was nice to recharge after the long hikes of the morning.
2. Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room:
   • For a more upscale dining experience, Jenny Lake Lodge offers a fine dining restaurant known for its gourmet cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The menu showcases seasonal and regional ingredients, with options for multi-course dinners and wine pairings. Reservations are recommended for dinner service.
3. Colter Bay Village Restaurants:
   • Colter Bay Village features several dining options, including the Colter Bay Restaurant and the Ranch House Restaurant. Both establishments offer casual dining experiences with a variety of menu options, from burgers and pizza to grilled specialties and hearty comfort food. Grab a table on the outdoor patio to enjoy views of the surrounding forest and mountains.

Rapid Fire Tips

• Plan ahead, know your route before you start your day. When going to Jenny Lake give yourself ample time to hike, rest, admire the views and eat.
• Best Season to Visit: Summer
• Pack accordingly – weather can change quick in the Tetons, always good to have a rain jacket on you and good shoes
• Practice Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by practicing Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing plants, animals, and fragile ecosystems.
• Be Bear Aware: Grand Teton is home to a population of grizzly bears and black bears, so it’s important to be bear aware during your visit. Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and store food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or lockers
• Enjoy the Moments: Finally, take the time to slow down, soak in the stunning landscapes, and appreciate the moments of tranquility and wonder that Grand Teton has to offer. Whether you’re watching a sunrise over the mountains or gazing up at the stars in the night sky, cherish the beauty and magic of this extraordinary national park.
• Take a lot of pictures. you want to remember this trip, these mountains are very unique. Capture pictures of everything you can see.
• How many days do I need? This park is a lot smaller than Yellowstone but it still one of the most beautiful parks there is. Try to plan for about 2 full days here to really capture everything this park has to offer. Most of your time will probably be spent at Jenny Lake for the majority of one of the days.

Conclusion

A visit to the Grand Tetons is a journey into the heart of untamed wilderness, where soaring peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife await. By following this guide and embracing the spirit of adventure, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime in this natural wonderland. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the Grand Tetons!

Visiting Grand Teton National Park is not just about experiencing its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife—it’s about immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of nature and creating memories that will last a lifetime. As you explore the park’s trails, scenic overlooks, and hidden gems, you’ll discover a sense of awe and wonder that can only be found in the great outdoors.

As you bid farewell to Grand Teton National Park, take with you not only memories of its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures but also a deep respect for the precious wilderness that we are privileged to explore and protect. Carry the spirit of Grand Teton with you wherever you go, and may it inspire you to seek out new adventures, connect with nature, and preserve the beauty of our natural world for generations to come.