Why go
The Grand Teton National Park is one of the most impressive landscapes in North America. The rugged peaks of the Teton Range rise almost vertically from the plain and are reflected in crystal clear lakes – a sight that many photographers call one of the most beautiful panoramas in the USA.
Although the park is located just south of Yellowstone, many visitors take only a few hours. That's a pity because Grand Teton offers a completely different atmosphere. While Yellowstone is characterized by geysers and thermal areas, majestic mountains, calm lakes, dense forests and an extraordinary wildlife are at the centre of this park.
At a glance
Category | Information
Establishment | 1929
Area | Approx. 1 255 km2
Ideal stay | 2–3 days
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Landscape | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Animal observations | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photography | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mormon Row Historic District
The historic barns in front of the imposing Teton mountain range are among the most photographed motifs in the USA.
The Moulton Barn, whose silhouette with the mountains in the background can be found on postcards and calendars worldwide, is particularly well known.
Photo Tip
Shortly after sunrise the first light falls on the summits – the best time for impressive photos.
Jenny Lake
Jenny Lake is one of the park's most beautiful lakes.
The turquoise water and the steep rock walls make it a perfect starting point for hiking tours.
You can take the lake:
Rounding on foot
Cross by shuttle boat
Explore by kayak
Hidden Falls
After a short hike you reach one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the park.
The route is also suitable for families.
Inspiration Point
Just a few minutes above Hidden Falls is one of the park's most famous viewpoints.
From here, you'll see Jenny Lake to the Jackson Hole Valley plain.
Snake River Overlook
This viewpoint was world famous by photographer Ansel Adams.
Today it is still one of the most beautiful places for sunsets.
Oxbow Bend
Another classic among landscape photographers.
In the early morning, the Tetons are often completely reflected in calm water.
With a little luck you can watch elk, beaver or whitehead eagle here.
Schwabacher Landing
An absolute insider tip for photographers.
While many visitors drive directly to the famous viewpoints, it is often surprisingly quiet here.
Photo Tip
Plan your visit immediately after sunrise. The reflections are usually perfect at this time of day.
Day trip on the Jenny Lake Trail
Distance: up to 12 km
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: medium
One of the most beautiful hiking tours in the park.
Cascade Canyon Trail
Many experienced hikers consider this tour the most impressive hike in Grand Teton National Park.
On the way there are good chances to observe moose, marmots or even black bears.
Signal Mountain Summit Road
A short panoramic road leads to the top of Signal Mountain.
From above opens a fantastic view over:
Jackson Lake
Grand Teton
Yellowstone area
Kayak or stand-up paddling
Jenny Lake and String Lake are great for quiet paddle tours.
The water is crystal clear and the mountain scenery unique.
Shopping
Within the National Park, shopping is limited.
For larger purchases we recommend:
Jackson
Mosses
Wilson
Here you can find:
Supermarket
Outdoor shops
Service stations
Camping equipment
Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room
One of the best restaurants in the park.
Ideal for a special dinner.
Dornan's Chuckwagon
Legendary for breakfast and pizza.
From the terrace you enjoy a magnificent view of the Tetons.
Love of the locals
Many visitors come in the evening only because of the view and the cozy atmosphere.
Signal Mountain Lodge Restaurant
Right on Jackson Lake.
Especially recommended are the fish dishes.
Colter Bay RV Park
The best choice for Fifth Wheels.
Benefits:
Full Hook-up
Dump Station
Shopping
Restaurant
Marina
Reservations are often necessary many months in advance.
Gros Ventre Campground
Very popular because of its frequent moose observations.
No hook-ups, but generous pitches.
Colter Bay Campground
A beautiful nature campsite in the middle of the forest.
Ideal for smaller campers.
Headwaters Campground
North of the park.
Perfect for travelers who want to combine Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
RV tip
Use the pickup truck to explore the park. Many parking spaces at the viewpoints are unsuitable for large Fifth Wheels.
Animal monitoring
The best chances for moose, bisons and bears are:
shortly after sunrise
in the last two hours before sunset
Photo Tip
The Tetons look completely different in the morning than in the afternoon. Plan at least a sunrise in the park.
Avoid frequent errors
Don't underestimate the hiking times.
In summer thunderstorms can occur quickly in the afternoon.
Keep enough distance from bisons and moose – they seem peaceful but can become very dangerous.
Reserve campsites as early as possible.
Our recommendation
For many travelers, Yellowstone is the highlight of their journey. But amazingly many long-term campers call Grand Teton National Park their personal favorite. The reason is simple: the landscape is spectacular, the paths are shorter and the atmosphere seems calmer.
If you only want to experience a single sunrise of your entire journey, it should be the one at Schwabach Landing or Mormon Row. When the first rays of sunshine reflect on the snow-covered peaks and the mountains emerge in calm water, you will understand why Grand Teton National Park is one of North America's most beautiful places for many.