Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming offers dramatic mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and pristine alpine lakes that draw visitors from around the world.
Grand Teton National Park was established in 1929, though the surrounding lands were not fully incorporated into its present boundaries until 1950 following years of local debate over land use and ranching rights. The park encompasses roughly 310,000 acres in northwestern Wyoming, anchored by the Cathedral Group of peaks, where the Grand Teton itself rises to nearly 14,000 feet. The abrupt vertical profile of the range is the result of geological faulting rather than glacial carving alone, giving the mountains their distinctive sheer faces.
Jackson Lake, the largest body of water in the park, sits at the northern end of the valley known as Jackson Hole and offers boating, fishing for native cutthroat trout, and sweeping views toward the highest summits. Wildlife viewing is one of the park's defining draws, with pronghorn, bison, gray wolves, and bald eagles all present in notable numbers. The Mormon Row Historic District, a collection of early twentieth century homestead barns near Antelope Flats, provides a rare glimpse into the ranching history that shaped this valley long before it became protected land.
Climbers from around the world come to test themselves on the technical routes of the Grand Teton, while hikers of all skill levels find satisfying trails ranging from the flat Potholes Turnout walk to the demanding ascent toward the Lower Saddle. The nearby town of Jackson serves as a base with a range of dining and lodging options, but the park itself contains several historic lodges that place guests directly within the landscape. Few places in the American West offer such an immediate and unobstructed encounter with mountain wilderness.
Visit during late September and early October for fall foliage, cooler crowds, and the elk rut in the valleys below the peaks.
Try the Oxbow Bend pullout at sunrise for some of the most reliably stunning reflections of Mount Moran in still water.
Bring bear spray and know how to use it before entering any backcountry trail, as both black bears and grizzlies are active throughout the park.
Hike the Cascade Canyon Trail for a manageable route that delivers close-up views of the central Teton peaks and frequent wildlife sightings.
Stop at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center near Moose for detailed trail maps, ranger talks, and current wildlife activity reports.
Catch sunrise views with a private guide, spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic brunch
Float the Snake River through Grand Teton National Park with mountain views and guide insights
Explore groomed trails and expansive off-trail terrain on a private mountain ride
Explore snowy Teton landscapes with a private guide and wildlife-viewing gear
Cast for Lake, Cutthroat and Brown trout in Grand Teton National Park
Discover winter wildlife with a naturalist on a private tour tailored to your interests
Kayak past geothermal wonders and hike to remote Shoshone Lake in one seamless full-day adventure.
Refine your photography with a private guide among Grand Teton's winter landscapes
Explore winter wildlife country, wildlife art, and an open-air sleigh ride
Explore winter wildlife habitats with a naturalist guide at your own pace
Discover Jackson Hole’s winter ecology with a naturalist on a private wildlife and snowshoe adventure
Explore Grand Teton on a private guided day tour with photo stops and binoculars
See the Tetons at sunrise on a group hot air balloon flight
Explore Yellowstone's winter interior by snowcoach with a naturalist guide
Explore winter gathering grounds for elk, bison, and their predators
Make your winter transfer a guided journey through Yellowstone
Make your winter transfer a guided look at Yellowstone
Explore Yellowstone's winter interior with a naturalist guide
Search for winter wildlife with a naturalist and high-definition viewing gear
Discover Yellowstone’s geothermal landscapes in winter with an expert guide
Explore Yellowstone in winter with a guide's trained eye for wildlife
Explore Yellowstone’s snowy interior with a private naturalist guide
Explore Yellowstone in winter with a guide trained to spot wildlife
Explore Yellowstone's quiet winter interior with your own naturalist guide