Top Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
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The 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Grand Teton National Park, Grand Teton National Park
Situated near famed Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park's crown jewels include the Cathedral Group of peaks and the majestic Snake River. The dramatic spires that inspired Ansel Adams rise straight from valley floors, providing awe-inducing views. See them at their most compelling from the comparatively gentle Jenny Lake and Hermitage Point's trails or the switchbacks of Death Canyon. Jackson Lake is favored for windsurfing and sailing. Colter Bay Visitor Center contains an Indian Arts Museum.
1. Cascade Canyon Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 259 reviews
This uphill trail follows Cascade Creek for 4.5 miles and reaches Hidden Falls.
Reviewed By TravFiend - Laguna Beach, United States
Since we had planned to hike up to Lake Solitude (14.5 mile round trip) we decided to take the first shuttle across the lake (you have the option of tacking on another 4 miles if you plan to hike the southern part of Jenny trail instead of taking the shuttle). We were pleasantly surprised that the first shuttle @ 7am costs $5 RT per person (all later shuttles cost $18 RT pp), so if you want to save some money and want to avoid the crowd, then I would strongly recommend getting up early to catch the first shuttle to hike this trail. Plus early mornings promise better moose sightings. We saw a total of 6-7 moose on our way up to the fork, and then another 3-4 on our way back. In order to see the canyon view, you really have to go past (bear right at the fork) the Canyon fork. You don’t have to hike all the way up to Lake Solitude (which is 2.7 miles past the fork). Just hike another mile past the fork, look back, and you’ll be rewarded with the most beautiful scenery. The last mile up to Lake Solitude was more strenuous and tricky given some of the snow pack at certain parts of the trail. So if you’re going to hike up late spring or early summer, I’d recommend hiking boots (not sneakers) and poles. The lake was still partially frozen over in early July, but we managed to dip our feet in the chilly water for a second or two to refresh the legs for our hike back down. The way back got crowded past the fork. A lot of families with kids looking to get a glimpse of moose. The whole hike took us 8 hours to complete, including 1/2 hour lunch break at the top, and a 15 minute “moose jam”, where a bull was blocking the trail as we were hiking up. My advice, start early! It’ll be so much more enjoyable.
2. Teton Park Road
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 275 reviews
A well-paved scenic road.
Reviewed By ketadog - Juneau, United States
We drove this road early in the morning and at dusk to see wildlife. We were lucky to see bull elk bugling and lots of pronghorn antelope.
3. Polecat Creek Loop Trail
4. Exum Mountain Guides
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 38 reviews
Exum Mountain Guides is the oldest and most experienced guides service in North America. Exum guides climbers to the summit of the Grand Teton and guide kids and families on day rock climbing adventures.
5. Amphitheater Lake
6. 42-mile Scenic Loop Drive
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 612 reviews
Reviewed By gillkaribu - Bishops Stortford, United Kingdom
If you have limited time in the park this is the best route to take. Whether you start at Moose Entrance, Moran Entrance or Jackson Lake Junction you will follow the Teton Park Road with close views of the lakes and Teton Mountains and Highway 89 through the open plains along the Snake River. Take as much time as possible to stop for photo shoots of Jackson and Jenny Lakes and it is worth taking the turn-off to Schwabacher Landing just off Highway 89. Dornans at the southern end of the park is good for food and gifts as is Jackson Lake Lodge.
7. Solitude Float Trips
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,293 reviews
We offer Snake River float trips that are 100% inside Grand Teton National Park. The team at Solitude Float Trips is dedicated to making a float trip the highlight of your visit to Jackson Hole. Solitude Float Trips is a smaller family owned river company, which allows us to conduct our scenic float trips in an unhurried manner and to provide personal attention to every guest. Each trip includes information about Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole’s wildlife, history, geology, and any special interest you may want to explore. We look forward to you joining us on the Wild and Scenic Snake River.
8. National Park Float Trips
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 399 reviews
NATIONAL PARK FLOAT TRIPS - GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK Enjoy a scenic float trip or guided fishing trip on one of America's most beautiful wilderness river systems. We float the most scenic stretch of the Snake River in the entire Jackson Hole Valley. Our trips showcase the true grandeur of Grand Teton Country. A scenic float trip on the Snake River, entirely in Grand Teton National Park, makes a trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming a vacation to remember.
9. Taggart Lake
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 213 reviews
Reviewed By kellir - Boise, United States
This is a moderate hike with pretty views of Tetons and areas of forest and meadow. Many pretty places to stop for photos. The Taggart Lake parking lot is full by 9:00. Recommend arriving by 8:00
10. Lakeshore Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Reviewed By NatParkHikerJess - Peoria, United States
I'm a bit surprised this hike doesn't have more reviews on TA. It is SUCH a fun hike with amazing views of the lake and the Tetons. You pick up this trailhead behind the Colter Bay visitor center. It's a loop, about 2 miles RT but fairly easy (there are some ups and downs but nothing major). The benefit is the drop-dead gorgeous views of the Tetons as you hike along the shore. There are parts of the trail that go inward into the woods, but for many stretches, you're hiking right along Jackson Lake and have uninterrupted views of those majestic peaks. There is a nice little sandbar area not too far into the hike which would be nice to sit and read on if you brought out some lawn chairs as well. It's a quick hike and a great intro to GTNP. It's the first one we did and was a great introduction to this amazing national park. If you've got questions about the trail, stop into the Colter Bay visitor center and talk to a ranger.
