A Guide for Visiting Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, named after Grand Teton, the tallest mountain in the Teton Range, is a wonderful but often-overlooked park in northwestern Wyoming (mostly because Yellowstone is a very short drive away). Grand Teton National Park’s best features are its luxuriant forests and glistening lakes.

With 480 miles² (1240 kilometers²) alpine acres, glistening lakes, mountainous terrain, rich wildlife, and over 200 miles (320 km) of hiking trails, Grand Teton is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

While it is not known for notable or famous attractions, this national park is definitely a place for those who like to take their time and linger. For example, some people spend days on the lakes or in the campgrounds.

Grand Teton National Park: Important Information
Time	You can spend anywhere from 1 hour to 1 week here.
Peak Seasons	Summer and Fall are the peak seasons (May to September). Summer naturally has great temperatures for outdoor activities while Fall has relatively mild temperatures and the colorful changing leaves. While by no means a peak seasons (because it’s too damn cold), Winter offers great opportunities for winter sports and a view the spectacular snowcapped peaks.
Activity Options	You can participate in wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and skiing (in the winter).
Cost and Parking	The cost to enter the park is $35 per vehicle. Parking is free. A National Park Annual Pass is a great investment, especially since Yellowstone is only a short drive away.
Adventure Gear: Gear varies widely in Grand Teton depending on activity. In addition to the situational camping equipment, boating equipment, and fishing equipment, make sure to bring good hiking shoes, sun protection, binoculars (for wildlife viewing), and plenty of food and water.

A Nature Adventure

The Jenny Lake Visitor Center should be your first stop. The center provides important information about the park, and it’s also in a nice centralized location with a great view.

There are various relevant boards and displays scattered about. These boards and displays provide information about the history, geography, and hiking trails.

There are also over 200 miles (320 km) of scenic hiking trails throughout the park, and the Visitor Center will provide you with all necessary and relevant information.

With more than 1000 drive-in campsites to complement the hiking trails, the options for nature adventures are nearly endless.

Glistening Lakes

One of Grand Teton National Park’s greatest strengths lies in its lakes. Even Yellowstone Lake pales in comparison to Grand Teton’s lake’s vast range of aquatic entertainment options.

The pristine waters of Jenny Lake alone provide ample opportunities for maximum fun, and Jenny Lake Lodge is also a viable accommodation.

There is a multitude of activities available on Jenny Lake, ranging from shuttle boat services to cruises. And Jenny Lake Scenic Drive’s views alone are worth the effort.

Shuttle Boats: Open daily for 7 am to 7 pm
Shuttle Boats arrive every 15 minutes. Roundtrip tickets for adults cost $18 ($10 one way).

Scenic Interpretive Tours: 11 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm (lasting 1 hour each)
Adult tickets cost $25.

Private Scenic Cruise: $350 per hour (private booking)

Jackson Lake, the 15-mile (24-km) body of water to the north, offers paddle sports, sailing, water skiing, and windsurfing. And there are more than 15 islands on the lake.

Colter Bay Marina (toward the center of Jackson Lake) offers boat rentals, scenic cruises, and guided fishing trips.

Grand Teton features alpine acres, glistening lakes, mountainous terrain, rich wildlife, and over 200 miles (320 km) of hiking trails, and a nearly pristine ecosystem with flora and fauna that date back to prehistoric times. Definitely visit this park when you’re in the area. Whether you stay for an hour or a week, the experience will be worthwhile.