Top 10 Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
While everyone has different interests, I want to share 10 awesome experiences we had in Grand Teton National Park. I hope these activities will spark ideas for your own epic adventure. So, get ready to dive in and discover the amazing things that await you in this iconic National Park!
Table of Contents
1. Hike the Jenny Lake Trail
Jenny Lake has something for everyone. An inexperienced hiker can take a short hike up to Hidden Falls and turn back. If you are looking for more of a challenge, keep going to up to inspiration point for some amazing views of Jenny Lake.
Want more? Continue on toward Cascade Canyon for a chance to see a Moose or other wildlife. Moving on into the canyon will reward you with some breathtaking views next to Cascade creek. At some point you should consider turning back, or keeping going until you get to Idaho!
I will say, we enjoyed the return hike along the horse trail to the Jenny Lake loop. This section drops you down elevation as you descend toward the lake, and you are surrounded by lush forest. We found a huckleberry bush and enjoyed picking a few fresh berries. Boy they were good!
2. Scenic Drive-Up Signal Mountain Summit
This winding road might take a little longer, but the payoff is incredible. You’ll be treated to a unique and breathtaking panorama of the valley, with several stunning overlooks along the way before reaching the grand finale.
See if you can find the survey marker! On the drive down we had a special surprise of seeing a mule deer as well.
3. Walk the Lakeshore at Colter Bay
Colter Bay Visitor center is a great place to visit, talk with a Ranger to find out what special programs are available, buy a souvenir, and get your National Park cancellation stamp.
Take the lakeshore trail from the Visitor center to get amazing views of Jackson Lake. We found a nice spot to skip rocks and take in a little bird watching.
4. Take a few Pictures at Oxbow Bend
There is no shortage of places to bust out your camera in Grand Teton National Park. I was able to sneak out in the mornings to take some landscape photos a few times.
One amazing place to visit for an epic sunrise is at Oxbow bend. Find the best spot next to the parking lot and wait for the light rise as you catch some awesome reflections of the mountain.
5. Float down the Snake River
Driving down Teton Park Road or RT 191 you can’t help but take in the park’s natural beauty from the overlooks. If you want to see the park from a completely different perspective, take in a river float trip. In a raft.
We enjoyed the afternoon, lazily floating along the Snake River and was provided with some breathtaking views and visits from wildlife as well.
6. Sunset at Jackson Lake Lodge
We stayed at Jackson Lake Lodge our first night and were simply amazed by the incredible scenery you can take in from the back patio. The sunset that hit the mountains and lit the sky helped keep me awake just a little bit longer after a long day of traveling.
7. Antler Arches and Ice Cream in Jackson
Sometimes you need a break from nature on these road trips, especially if you are riding around with my kids. A drive into Jackson was a great release. Grab some Huckleberry ice cream and look at the amazing Antler Arches at the town square.
8. Ranger Led Nature Walk at Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center
First, the Craig Thomas Visitor center is a must-do stop in and of itself. It is awesomely new, full of wildlife exhibits, and helpful Park Rangers. Plus, so cool they have a huge Moose sculpture in the front!
Secondly, use this as an opportunity to take in a Ranger led nature walk around the building to see the wildflowers and listen to some interesting wildlife facts and history.
9. Try to find a Bison or Pronghorn in the sagebrush along Rt. 191
Be on the lookout for wildlife, as it can present itself at any time. We were not actively seeking Bison or Pronghorn on our drive north to Jackson lodge. We were not expecting to see anything like this until our visit to Yellowstone in a few days.
Boy, were we pleasantly surprised! An entire herd of Bison! We also saw at least ten Pronghorn sheep.
10. Check Out Historic Mormon Road
This is a must-see bucket list item for any photographer, and you should not pass it up. Once here you can let your creative juices flow as you try to capture some iconic shots or recreate your own compositions.
I almost overslept and missed it, but my family was kind enough to allow me to swing through this area to take in the history and grab a few shots as well.
Some extra things to do in Grand Teton National Park
Collect National Park Passport Stamps
Whether you are an avid hiker, or just like to drive around looking for wildlife, you can always pop into one of the visitor centers and pick up a Free souvenir to commemorate your visit to this iconic National Park. the National Park Passport stamps can be found at these locations:
- Craig Thomas Discover and Moose Visitor Center
- Colter Bay Visitor Center and Indian Arts Museum
- Jenny Lake Visitor Center
Go shopping in downtown Jackson
If you need a break from nature, Jackson is only a short drive from the park and can provide you with a charming old west time. There are a number of restaurants, boutiques and shops to curb your shopping urge.
Why is Grand Teton so special
- You will always have an amazing view of the mountains. They are ever present and provide an incredible backdrop during your entire stay.
- While the park is expansive, it feels like a smaller park. We were able to get around to the main areas easily.
- The diversity is amazing. Mountains. Wildlife. Rivers. Lakes. Hiking. Camping. Hotels. History. A Dam. It has a lot to offer, and the landscape photographer in me loved it.
If you are on the fence about going, just go! You will not regret it!
Twenty Years from Now You Will Be More Disappointed by the Things You Didn’t Do Than by the Ones You Did Do
geat reflection
Thank you!
Great suggestions for exploring Grand Teton National Park!