Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking destination, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The park is located just 31 miles south of Yellowstone National Park but is sometimes overlooked by the many millions visiting Yellowstone each year, making it less busy and easier to navigate. While it may be smaller than its neighbor, Grand Teton’s charm lies in its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Unlike the bustling crowds of Yellowstone, you can savor the wilderness surrounding Grand Teton at your own pace.
Must-Do Activities
Jenny Lake Exploration: Begin your adventure with a visit to Jenny Lake, ideally in the morning to avoid crowds. Take a shuttle boat across the lake for a scenic journey and embark on the hike to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. The boat tour departs from behind the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, located on the eastern shore of Jenny Lake. You can access the visitor center by car or shuttle bus; however, the parking lot does fill up quickly, leaving cars that arrive later in the morning circling for a parking spot or parking back out along the main road – and it’s a bit of a walk from the main road!
They do not take reservations, so be prepared to wait in line. Tickets can be purchased at the boat dock and the cost for a ticket at this moment is as follows:
$ 20.00 – Adult Round-trip (12 yrs to 61 yrs)
$ 12.00 – Adult One-Way
$ 12.00 – Child Round-trip (2 yrs to 11 yrs)
$ 10.00 – Child One-Way
$ 17.00 – Senior Round-trip (62 yrs and over)
(No Senior One-Way rate)
FREE Under 2 years of age and over 80 yrs.
The boat ride takes 10-15 minutes and drops off at the Cascade Canyon trailhead. At the drop-off point, you can take trails to Hidden Falls (1/2 mile each way), Inspiration Point (1 mile each way), and into Cascade Canyon, which leads North to Solitude Lake or South to the South Fork of Cascade Canyon, and beyond to Hurricane Pass and Schoolroom Glacier. The hike to Inspiration Point is doable with little kids (just not with a stroller!).
And the views at the top are worth it!
Scenic Drive
Another great way to see the park is by driving along the park’s Loop Road. We recommend stopping at a few key points including Schwabacher Landing, Oxbow Bend, and Signal Mountain Summit Road.
Mormon Row
Plan to stop at Morman Row where you can capture the iconic barns set against the backdrop of the Tetons. This is one of the more iconic views of the mountains in the park.
Jackson Lake
It’s also worth stopping in at Jackson Lake Lodge even if you aren’t staying there to get a view of the impressive lobby. They also have a few dining options, both sit-down as well as grab and go. While the dining may not be extraordinary, the lodge provides a comfortable spot to relax for a bit and take in the stunning views. There are also a few short trails you can hike right from the lodge.
Church of the Transfiguration
Some of the best views of the Tetons can be seen at the Church of the Transfiguration. This tiny church against the backdrop of the giant Tetons is quite a sight and a must-stop. If pressed for time, skip the Chapel of the Sacred Heart but do not skip this one!
Other options to consider
- Colter Bay – You get direct access to Jackson Lake at Colter Bay with a full-service marina. They also have over 300 campsites. There are two hikes in this area worth considering as well. The Lakeshore Trail is an easy, 2-mile loop trail that offers beautiful views of Jackson Lake and the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely walk. The Hermitage Point Trail is a much more challenging 9.5-mile round-trip hike that takes you through forests, meadows, and wetlands, ending at a scenic point overlooking Jackson Lake and the Teton Range.
- Taggart Lake Hike – The Taggart Lake hike is one of the most popular and accessible trails in Grand Teton National Park. This one is a moderate 3-mile hike and offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range, lush forests, and Taggart Lake.
- Snake River Adventures – You can experience the thrill of floating or whitewater rafting on the Snake River. Several vendors offer guided trips, providing an exciting activity for the whole family.
- Horseback Riding – Grand Teton Lodge Company and Swift Creek Outfitters offer horseback tours of the park’s trails. Suitable for children aged 8 and above, it offers a unique perspective of the landscape.
Dining and Refreshments
One night we opted for the Chuck Wagon experience at Dornan’s in Moose and it was fantastic! The lodges and Coulter Bay Village also have different food options, but a much better selection is available in the nearby town of Jackson Hole.
Exploring Jackson Hole
The vibrant town of Jackson Hole offers plenty of accommodation options, dining experiences, and recreational activities. Whether it’s strolling through the downtown square or exploring the nearby ski resort, there’s no shortage of things to see and do; but also no shortage of people. Be prepared to spend some time waiting during meal time and be sure to book hotels well in advance!
(Sometimes when asking strangers to take your picture you get amazing results, other times…you get their fingers in it! Always better to ask and get a so-so photo than not get one at all!)
Accommodation Options
There are various lodging options within Grand Teton National Park, ranging from rustic cabins to comfortable lodge rooms. Two of the more famous options are the Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake Lodges. We stayed in one of the outer cabins at Jackson Lake Lodge. It was an enjoyable stay, but be warned that there is no air conditioning, and it can get a little warm during the summer months.
We absolutely love this National Park and have been multiple times now. Drop us a note if you have any questions!
Did you know Grand Teton is only about 30 miles south of another great National Park, Yellowstone? Make sure you plan extra time to check it out during your stay!
