Visiting Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming in a day
Grand Teton National Park is one of the most picturesque and iconic parks in the western United States, located in northwestern Wyoming. This beautiful park is home to the soaring peaks of the Teton Range, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. With more than 310,000 acres of stunning wilderness in the Rocky Mountains, it’s definitely a must-visit destination for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers alike.
While a few days might be too short to explore everything Grand Teton has to offer, it is still possible to visit and take in its beauty in just one day. Here is our guide on how to make the most of your day trip to Grand Teton National Park.
Getting There:
Grand Teton National Park is easily accessible, whether you’re coming from Jackson Hole or driving from another city in Wyoming. If you’re driving from Jackson Hole, take Highway 26/89 north and you’ll head right into the park. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Yellowstone National Park, take the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway south.
Park Entrance:
As you arrive at the park entrance, you’ll be required to purchase a day pass for Grand Teton National Park, which costs $35 per vehicle. Alternatively, if you’re visiting multiple national parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Annual Pass for $80 which grants access to all national parks and federal recreation lands for one year.
Morning Activities:
Hit the Trail
Once inside the park, hit one of Grand Teton’s many hiking trails. Hike up to Inspiration Point or Hidden Falls, both starting from the Jenny Lake visitor center. The hike will take about 3-4 hours and offer stunning views of the Teton Range. You can also go on the Taggart and Bradley Lakes loop, a gentle 5-mile (8-kilometer) hike suitable for all levels. This popular trail offers stunning views of the Teton Range and beautiful alpine scenery.
Take a Scenic Drive
Another great option for a morning activity is a scenic drive. The main road in Grand Teton National Park is the 42-mile (67 km) scenic loop, giving you a great overview of the park’s incredible vistas. You can also stop at one of the many pullouts and overlooks such as the Snake River Overlook, where you can get breathtaking views of the iconic Teton Mountain Range looming over the Snake River. Other not-to-be-missed scenic stops include the Oxbow Bend Turnout, Schwabacher’s Landing, Jenny Lake Overlook, and Signal Mountain Summit.
Afternoon Activities:
Picnic by the Lake
Pack a picnic lunch and head to one of the beautiful glacial lakes in the park, like Jenny Lake. Jenny Lake is a stunningly beautiful glacial lake and very popular with visitors. The lake is surrounded by the majestic Teton peaks and is perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing. There are also several picnic areas around the lake where you can sit and enjoy your lunch while taking in the awe-inspiring views.
Go Wildlife Watching
Grand Teton National Park is a great place to spot wildlife, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see a variety of animals such as bears, moose, elk, bison and more. Visit the Lamar Valley, where you can spot bison herds grazing on the grasslands, but keep an eye out for the occasional grizzly bear wandering through the prairies. The park’s Antelope Flats area is another popular spot to see bison, while Schwabacher Landing is a great place for moose sightings.
Sunset Photography:
Photography enthusiasts are in for a special treat at Grand Teton – the sunset! The Teton Range is a truly beautiful sight at sunset and the colors of the sky create a magical backdrop for your photography. Head to one of the numerous spots around the park to photograph the sunset. Snake River Overlook is a particularly popular spot for capturing the Teton Range at sunset, while the Mormon Row Barns is another great photo location.
Wrapping Up:
As you wrap up your day at Grand Teton National Park, you’ll realize that a single day might not have been enough to truly appreciate the park’s natural beauty. However, you should leave with unforgettable memories of the majestic Teton Mountains, abundant wildlife, and the stunning scenery that make this park a must-visit destination in the United States.
