Grand Teton National Park may share a border with Yellowstone, but the two parks might as well be worlds apart. Yellowstone is known for its geothermal natural wonders, but Grand Teton offers a more peaceful experience. You don't have to worry about boiling hot geysers or supervolcanoes at Grand Teton, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the rugged mountains, beautiful valleys, and the abundant wilderness wonders that the park has to offer.
National Elk Refuge Road, Jackson, Wyoming, United States
The winding Snake River, which starts in Yellowstone, weaves for over 1,050 miles, a small portion of which is located in Grand Teton National Park. It's an incredible river to float or boat down, so book an excursion with an outfitter, and go in the morning if you can. However, if you still want to appreciate the river's beauty without the effort of getting on the water, head to Snake River Overlook and take it all in.
Grand Teton is home to some pretty incredible wildlife: wolves, elk, moose, big horn sheep, coyotes, and more have called the park home for centuries, but it's only recently that the park's population of grizzly bears has begun to boom. There are only about 1,500 grizzlies in the continental US right now, and 600 of them live in the Yellowstone-Teton area. If you're looking to see them in the wild, they can be best seen in June and July at Willow Flats. And, just in case you have an encounter with one, brush up on your bear safety! Don't make eye contact with it, act aggressively, or run; instead, back away slowly. And remember to bring bear spray and bear-proof containers for food.
Jackson Lake is one of the park's biggest, and it's popular for a reason. The views of the mountains reflected in Jackson Lake's water are incredible, and there's great trout fishing here and plenty of places to rent a boat. There are even islands in the lake to explore! Of course, since the water is glacial melt, it's pretty chilly, but a great way to cool off after a hike.
More accessible than Leigh Lake, but a little more hidden than the popular Jenny Lake, you can rent a canoe in town and drive it out to String Lake for a slightly less busy boating experience.
One of the park's many lakes, Jenny Lake is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. Take a shuttle out here, and then rent a boat or hike the four mile loop around the water, it's a great place to spy wildlife and soak in the views.
Teton Village, Wyoming, United States
The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park: Grand Teton is one of those parks where there's really not a bad time to visit. Winter means many things are closed, but some people are drawn in by the snow sport opportunities and lack of crowds. Summer is the most popular time to visit, since the weather is warmer, although fall and spring bring fewer crowds and equally breathtaking views.
