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Over the years, largely due to the film my brother Jim and I co-produced being picked up by National Geographic (see below), we’ve had a lot of requests from friends, family, and strangers to create itineraries for their trips to Grand Teton National Park. About Our Travels to Grand Teton National ParkWhat started many years ago as lengthy text messages, then a google doc, has finally been turned into an “official” Grand Teton National Park Guide. My brother Jim and I first visited Grand Teton National Park back in 2016 with a small film crew and were tasked with finding the most beautiful places in the park. What an undertaking! Grand Teton is truly one of those places that anywhere you look seems to be postcard worthy. Since that trip I have returned almost yearly to bask in the pristine beauty that comprises Grand Teton National Park. I prefer Grand Teton to Yellowstone which is located just north of the park because of the overall scenery, wildlife, and crowds. Earlier this year we (me & my brother/co-founder Jim – pictured above) ranked all of the national parks and Grand Teton made the #2 spot on the list!  Is Grand Teton Still Worth the Visit?In recent years the park has seen a massive influx in folks (like myself) who want to get a glimpse of this breathtaking destination. Who can blame us! However, one question I’ve been getting asked more and more lately is “is it still worth it to visit Grand Teton despite the crowds?” The answer is, yes. It just requires a bit more due diligence and planning these days to have the best possible time. This post is different from others in that our goal is for you to see the most amazing sites (including wildlife), beat the crowds by going to some of the lesser traveled (but equally amazing) spots, and visit the park safely. I want you to be able to visit Grand Teton in a way that leaves it great condition for the next folks. I’ll also cover things to do, best places to eat, where to stay, getting to the park, and more. Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Let’s get started! About Grand Teton National ParkLocated in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range. This is a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic mountain beauty. The park derives it’s name from the mighty Teton Range popularly known as simply the Tetons, or the Grand Tetons. The park’s creation and eventual scale (in terms of acreage) was largely made possible by John D. Rockefeller Jr., son of the famous oil tycoon. Things to Know Before Visiting Grand Teton National ParkEntrance Fees$30 per vehicle OR if you plan to visit more National Parks within the next 12 months we suggest you go ahead and purchase the America the Beautiful Pass (which can be purchased at any national park) and gets you into all National Parks, Forests, Monuments, and more including 2,000 sites for free after a one time $79 fee. Grand Teton MapThe best map for the park: We like this map the best. Best Guide BookThe best guide book for Grand Teton: This is our favorite guide for Grand Teton. MosquitoesDuring the months of June and July expect to find mosquitoes at varying levels. I recommend this bug spray which has worked for me in the park and is environmentally friendly. Best Time to Visit Grand Teton National ParkThe Best Time to VisitGrand Teton National Park is in Spring and Fall to take advantage of lesser crowds and beautiful scenery. Summer is a great time to visit as well but it will be crowded. Leave No TraceWe’re big fans of Leave No Trace, here at MTJP. Want to learn more? Read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here. Bear SprayBear Spray: It’s a good thing to have on lots of the trails here. We like this one. DogsDogs are not allowed on trails in most national parks due to their potentially disruptive presence with the natural ecosystem. The basic rule is they are allowed where cars can go so be sure to check the rules before bringing along your furry friend. Details About Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park MapRELATED: Best Grand Teton National Park Maps Where is Grand Teton National Park?Grand Teton National Park is located on the Western side of Wyoming in Jackson Hole. The park shares a border with the more popular Yellowstone National Park to the north, the less-visited Bridger-Teton National Forest to the east, and the even lesser-visited Caribou-Targhee National Forest to the west. Getting To The Park – Directions & LocationThere are many ways to get to Grand Teton. The deciding factors in getting to Grand Teton are cost and time. Closest Airport: JAC – Jackson Hole, WY (distance 0 miles from the park) The fastest way to get to Grand Teton National Park is by plane, flying into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). The airport is basically in the park and offers sweeping views of the Tetons from the grounds. If money is no issue and time is paramount this is the way to go. Major airlines such as Delta service this airport so finding a flight shouldn’t be a problem – the price, however is typically steep. The cheapest way to get to Grand Teton is by simply driving to the park. This is a great, budget friendly option. Depending on your access to a car and the distance you’re willing to drive (see my national park road trips post), you may want to fly somewhere more affordable and rent a car from there. My recommendation is to check both rental car prices and flight prices at other nearby airports like Salt Lake City (SLC) – 5 hours away and Twin Falls (TWF) – 4.5 hours away. The savings for finding an alternative airport to fly into and rent a car from can sometimes be in the thousands. RELATED: The Ultimate National Parks Road Trip Watch the Award Winning Grand Teton VideoThe film I co-produced (along with my brother, Jim) featuring Grand Teton | Grand Teton Video About the Grand Teton VideoGRAND TETON 8K is the culmination of nearly a month spent filming in the spectacular Jackson Hole Valley and the foothills of the Teton Mountain Range. Encompassing nearly 500 square miles, Grand Teton National Park boasts an awe-inspiring array of pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, winding rivers, diverse wildlife, and the magnificent Teton Range. Journey with More Than Just Parks as we explore a land dominated by towering peaks, apex predators, and majestic beauty. This is Grand Teton. Filmed primarily in stunning UHD 8K. To make this film happen we spent nearly a month in Grand Teton during June & July. Of all the films we’ve shot this one features the most wildlife. We captured bison, elk, moose, bears, foxes, beavers, and more. RELATED: 14 BREATHTAKING National Park Videos to Inspire Your Next Trip Grand Teton Weather & SeasonsWeather in Grand Teton can be fairly unpredictable so always come prepared for a range of weather regardless of what time of year you plan to visit. Best Time to Visit Grand TetonThe best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is late spring and early summer (the end of June & beginning of July). Visitation during this time of year has not yet hit it’s peak, temperatures are warm enough but still mild, and wildlife is on the move. The downside of visiting during this time of year is precipitation and mosquitoes. It’s difficult to time when exactly the mosquitoes hatch each year but basically the same reasons that make it a great time to visit for you apply to them. Grand Teton National Park SeasonsSpring in Grand TetonSpring can be a great time to visit Grand Teton National Park as crowds are down and temperatures are on the rise. I recommend late spring (think June) for the best experience. Make sure to plan for rain if you visit in the Spring as it’s all but guaranteed. Late June can bring mosquitoes so pack bug spray (I recommend this eco-friendly one) Summer in Grand TetonSummer is the best time of year to visit Grand Teton National Park as temperatures are pleasant reaching the upper 70s with lows in the mid 40s. Wildflowers pop all over the park during July creating some dazzling displays. Wildlife is out and about with bears coming down from the mountains, wolves rearing pups, and more. The major downside to summer is the crowds. Popular places like Jenny Lake will be at capacity by mid-morning with lines and traffic. If you’re planning to visit this time of year make sure to plan early wake ups and pack your patience. Fall in Grand TetonFall can be a great time to visit Grand Teton National Park as visitation plummets with kids going back to school. Peak fall foliage in the park can be spectacular but happens earlier than most of the country, typically in mid to late September. RELATED: 10+ Must See National Parks This Fall (A Stunning Guide) Winter in Grand TetonWinter is a favorite time of year to visit the park for snow enthusiasts. There are great skiing opportunities and all sorts of breathtaking scenery to take in with none of the crowds. Winter is my least favorite season to visit Grand Teton but it doesn’t have to be yours. Best Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park1. Schwabacher LandingAs one of the most heavily photographed locations in Grand Teton National Park, Lower Scwabacher Landing is popular due to the mirror reflection of the tetons in the water creating a stunning photo composition. This is one of the best spots in the park to see a sunrise. RELATED: 17 EPIC GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK HIKES 2. Sunset at Snake River OverlookPerhaps the best place in the park to see sunset, Snake River Overlook is one of the most heavily photographed locations in Grand Teton National Park. This location was actually made famous by Ansel Adams back in the day. Since Adams famously photographed this spot, the national park service has allowed trees to grow in and obscure this treasured viewpoint. 3. Wildlife ViewingGrand Teton is home to an incredible array of wildlife, much of which can be viewed safely and easily when following best practices. Bison, Elk, Beavers, Wolves, Black Bears, Brown Bears, Moose, Deer, Pikas, Marmots, and so many more animals can be seen here thriving in their natural habitat. For more on where to see wildlife read on. 4. HikingSome of the most beautiful hiking trails in America happen to be in Grand Teton. A few of our favorite hikes include:
RELATED: 17 EPIC GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK HIKES (Photos + Video) 5. Rafting the Snake RiverThe Snake River is a congressionally designated Wild & Scenic River meaning it is stunningly beautiful. There’s no better way to soak it in then rafting down it. 6. Moulton BarnThe Moulton Barn is part of the area known as Mormon Row in the park which features a few beautiful and historic barns. Located off of the aptly named Antelope Flat Road, this barn is surrounded by some great wildlife viewing areas. 7. Oxbow BendGrand Teton is most beautiful during the sunrise hour of the morning. The best place in Grand Teton to catch a sunrise is from Oxbow Bend where the reflection of Mount Moran dazzles on a clear day. Where to Stay in Grand Teton – Camping & LodgingCamping in Grand TetonGrand Teton is home to 6 campgrounds containing 1052 individual campsites (including standard, hiker/biker, electric, full hook up pull through, and group) and an RV park with an additional 122 sites. That may sound like a lot but these sites fill up fast, especially during the peak summer season. For detailed camping & camp site information including availability, seasons, and more visit the park service site here. Grand Teton Lodging – Hotels & LodgesGrand Teton National Park is home to some of the most beautiful national park lodges in the world. The Jackson Lake Lodge & Jenny Lake Lodges are considered by many to be among the crown jewels of the entire system. The catch is the price – most of these lodges come with a hefty price tag which makes staying at one of these unattainable for most American families. Prices at the Jackson Lake Lodge for example start at $356/night for their classic “two queen room” and run all the way up to nearly a thousand dollars for their “Moran Suite”. If you think that’s steep, just ask for a “Deluxe Suite Cabin” at the Jenny Lake Lodge which sleeps 4. The price? A cool $1,770.00 dollars per night. When Yellowstone (Grand Teton’s neighbor to the north) was created as the first national park it was done so with the phrase “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” The question today regarding the lodges is which “people” were the legislators referring to? List of Lodges at Grand Teton National Park (with 2021 prices):
Other Lodging OptionsFor more lodging options check out the town of Jackson which has a few hotel and B&B options. They will also likely be pricey regardless of the time of year. Beat the Crowds on the Bridger-Teton National ForestBeat the crowds at Grand Teton by visiting this amazing national forest right next door! If you’re tired of wading through national park crowds we don’t blame you! Parks are crowded these days, especially Grand Teton (although Yellowstone is 10x more so). But don’t worry, there’s an easy way to escape the masses. Check out the Bridger Teton National Forest which shares a border with Grand Teton National Park and has equally as stunning views with a fraction of the visitors. The forest is minutes from the park and has breathtaking scenery, amazing wildlife, and nearly all of the same scenery as the park. You don’t take my word for it. Just watch the 3 minute video I co-produced above! Grand Teton PhotosI have taken thousands of photos of Grand Teton over the years. These are some of the ones that best represent this amazing place. Where to See Wildlife in Grand Teton National ParkGrand Teton is the best national park to view wildlife within the lower 48 states. So many of our favorite and most iconic animals call Grand Teton home. Seeing them can be a bit tricky – it’s about knowing where and what time to go. Make sure you give wildlife distance in the park, especially bears. If a bear crosses the road in front of you stay in your car. Your actions not only put yourself at risk but the bear as well. Be sure to go over the National Park Service’s 7 Ways to Safely Watch Wildlife before your visit to Grand Teton. Beaver – The best place to see beavers in Grand Teton is Upper Schwabacher Landing. The dams they’ve created in that area are astounding. Bison are seen all over the park but especially near the Moran Junction at Elk Ranch Flats Turnout. Grizzly Bear – Willow Flats Overlook is probably the most reliable place to spot Grizzlies in the park. Black Bear – I’ve seen black bears off the Highway 89 at the Christian Pond Loop, stalking the trash bins at the Jackson Lodge, and in the field off Lupine Meadows Road. Elk – Great places to see elk are Elk Ranch Flats Turnout & Lupine Meadows Road. Fox – Foxes are found throughout the park. I recommend the Blacktail Ponds Overlook is a great place to start. Pronghorn – Elk Ranch Flats Turnout, Lupine Meadow Road, & Antelope Flat Road are great places to spot pronghorn antelope. Moose – Moose-Wilson Road is the top spot to see moose in the park but Lupine Meadows Road is another good one. Wolves – I’ve only seen two wolves in the park, both were off of Pacific Creek Road headed up Lozier Hill. More Places to See Near Grand Teton
That’s a wrap folks! Hopefully you feel like you’ve got a good handle on your next trip to Grand Teton. Please leave me a comment below and let me know if you have any questions or comments. Hope to see you on the trails sometime soon! Helpful ArticlesGrand Teton Hikes: 18 EPIC Grand Teton National Park Hikes (Photos + Guide) Grand Teton Guide: Grand Teton National Park Ultimate Guide Things to Do Grand Teton: 17 EPIC Things to Do Grand Teton National Park Grand Teton Maps: The Best Maps for Grand Teton National Park Things to Do Yellowstone: 15 BEST Things to Do Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone Facts: 10 AMAZING Yellowstone National Park Facts Best Airports Near Yellowstone: The BEST Airports Near Yellowstone National Park The Wyoming National Parks: 10 EPIC Wyoming National Parks: The Complete Guide (+ Photos) How many days do you need to visit Grand Teton?Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Grand Teton National Park if you're an avid hiker. Plus, then you can combine it with our four day Yellowstone itinerary and make it a week-long adventure. You can do it in two days, but you'll be rushed. One day is not enough.
What is the best way to see the Tetons?One of the best ways to see Grand Teton National Park is on the 42-mile Scenic Loop Drive. This loop connects Highway 191 and Teton Park Road, passing many of the park's top attractions. Don't miss these scenic stops along the scenic drive (many of which are their own item on this list!):
What is the best month to visit Grand Teton National Park?The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is from mid-May to late September when all the visitor centers, hiking trails and other park activities, including kayaking and fishing, are open and accessible. Beginning in October, winter blows through the park, shutting down most of its facilities and roads.
Can you just drive through Grand Teton National Park?Driving through Grand Teton National Park offers stunning views of the Teton Range, along with the oppotunity to view wildlife. Many turnouts along park roads offer exhibits on park geology, wildlife, and plants. Turnouts also provide safe places to enjoy scenic views, view wildlife, and take photographs.
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Best way to visit Grand Teton National Park
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