Grand Teton has a special place in my heart. My first park ranger position was in the Tetons, and it was such an amazing experience! I arrived in May, straight from my college graduation in Texas. From the moment I pulled into my little summer cabin in Beaver Creek, I knew this place was magic. I spent the summer greeting visitors, hiking through the backcountry, packing supplies in and out of the back-country on pack-mules, and making life-long friendships. I often think back on my first season in the Tetons as one of the best summers of my life! Let’s take a closer look at what makes this park so special, along with my picks for best hikes in Grand Teton!
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History of Grand Teton National Park
The history of Grand Teton National Park is characterized by a combination of natural wonders, Native American presence, early exploration, and conservation efforts.
Early History
The region around the Teton Range has a long history of Native American occupation, primarily by the Shoshone, Crow, Bannock, Blackfoot, and Gros Ventre tribes. They utilized the area for hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices.
European-American exploration began in the early 19th century with the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806), which provided initial descriptions of the area. Fur trappers and traders followed, establishing the area’s reputation as a desirable location for resources.
The late 19th century saw an influx of homesteaders and ranchers settling in the Jackson Hole Valley. Recognizing the area’s scenic beauty and ecological significance, conservationists such as John D. Rockefeller Jr. began acquiring land to protect it from further development.
Preservation and National Park Designation
In 1929, John D. Rockefeller Jr. donated 33,000 acres of land to the U.S. government. This donation, along with subsequent land acquisitions, led to the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in 1950. The park initially encompassed the Teton Range and several glacial lakes.
Over the years, the park boundaries expanded through additional land acquisitions and congressional acts. Notably, the Jackson Hole National Monument was incorporated into the park in 1950. Conservation organizations and concerned individuals played a significant role in preserving the park’s natural and cultural resources.
Grand Teton National Park recognizes the historical significance of Native American tribes and their ancestral ties to the land. Efforts are made to collaborate with tribes to protect and interpret their cultural heritage within the park.
Today, Grand Teton National Park stands as a testament to the preservation of its awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the Teton region.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Tetons depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in.
Summer (June to August)
This is the peak tourist season due to pleasant weather and full accessibility. The days are warm, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) in the valleys. It’s an excellent time for hiking, wildlife viewing, and water activities on the lakes. However, popular areas can be crowded, and accommodation may be more expensive.
Fall (September to October)
Fall offers mild temperatures and beautiful foliage as the aspen trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and gold. The crowds thin out, making it a quieter time to visit. Weather can be variable, ranging from pleasant and sunny to cooler temperatures and occasional snow. Hiking, photography, and wildlife watching are still popular activities.
Winter (November to March)
Winter in the Tetons brings snow and cold temperatures, creating a winter wonderland. The park transforms into a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Wildlife sightings are also possible, and the landscapes take on a serene beauty. However, some roads and facilities may be closed or have limited access during this time.
Spring (April to May)
Spring can be a transitional period with changing weather conditions. The snow begins to melt, and temperatures gradually rise. This is a quieter time to visit, and you can witness the reawakening of nature, including blooming wildflowers and newborn wildlife. Some hiking trails and facilities may still be closed, and weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to check for current conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the Tetons depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the specific activities you want to pursue. Consider your priorities and plan accordingly to make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay
There are several options for accommodation at or near Grand Teton National Park.
Lodges and Resorts
Inside the park, you can stay at Jackson Lake Lodge or Jenny Lake Lodge. These lodges offer comfortable rooms, dining options, and stunning views. Outside the park, in the nearby town of Jackson Hole, you’ll find a range of luxury resorts and lodges that cater to various budgets.
Campgrounds
Grand Teton National Park has several campgrounds where you can experience the beauty of the outdoors. Some notable campgrounds include Jenny Lake Campground, Gros Ventre Campground, and Colter Bay Campground. These campgrounds offer both tent and RV camping options.
Cabins and Cottages
If you prefer a rustic and cozy setting, there are cabins and cottages available near the park. These accommodations provide a more private and secluded experience while still being close to the park’s attractions.
Hotels and Motels
In the town of Jackson Hole and its surrounding areas, you’ll find a wide range of hotels and motels offering various amenities and price ranges. This is a convenient option if you prefer more urban comforts and a range of dining and entertainment options.
It’s important to note that accommodations within the park, especially lodges and popular campgrounds, can book up quickly, especially during the peak summer season. It is advisable to make reservations well in advance to secure your preferred choice.
Regardless of where you choose to stay, the proximity of Grand Teton National Park to Jackson Hole allows for easy access to the park’s attractions and activities.
Things to Do at Grand Teton
Grand Teton National Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do at the park:
Scenic Drives
Take a drive along the Teton Park Road or the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive to soak in the breathtaking views of the Teton Range, pristine lakes, and picturesque landscapes. Don’t miss spots like Signal Mountain, Snake River Overlook, and Oxbow Bend for incredible photo opportunities.
Hiking
Grand Teton National Park is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails catering to all levels of experience. Explore iconic trails like Cascade Canyon, Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, Taggart Lake, and the Teton Crest Trail for stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, and serene alpine lakes.
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife, including elk, moose, bison, bears, wolves, and various bird species. Visit the Willow Flats Overlook, the Antelope Flats area, and the Lamar Valley for prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
Boating and Water Activities
Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters of Jenny Lake, String Lake, or Jackson Lake. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with fly fishing in the park’s pristine lakes and rivers.
Photography
Capture the majestic beauty of the Tetons by photographing the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and wildflowers. Sunrise and sunset provide magical lighting for capturing the mountains’ reflections in the lakes and rivers.
Ranger Programs
Attend ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and educational talks to learn about the park’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history. These programs offer valuable insights and enhance your understanding of the park’s natural and cultural heritage.
Scenic Boat Cruises
Take a scenic boat cruise across Jenny Lake or Jackson Lake to admire the stunning surroundings and learn about the park’s history and geology from knowledgeable guides.
Winter Activities
In the winter, Grand Teton National Park transforms into a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and wildlife watching in the serene winter wonderland.
Camping
Experience the park’s natural beauty by camping at one of the park’s campgrounds, such as Jenny Lake, Gros Ventre, or Colter Bay. Enjoy the serenity of the outdoors and the opportunity for stargazing.
Visitor Centers and Museums
Visit the park’s visitor centers, such as the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center or the Colter Bay Visitor Center, to learn about the park’s natural and cultural history through exhibits, displays, and interactive programs.
Remember to practice responsible outdoor ethics, follow park regulations, and respect the park’s natural resources during your visit to Grand Teton National Park.
Best Hikes at Grand Teton
Paintbrush and Cascade Canyon Loop
This was my first really really long hike. I’d been hiking for a few months in the park, but mostly trails that were in the 4-12 mile range. When one of the back-country trail rangers asked me if I wanted to go with him on his patrol of this loop, I was a little worried about length, but I went for it. And I’m so glad I did! This immediately became one of my favorite hikes in the Tetons, and while I certainly had my moments of asking “why in the world did I agree to this?” on the steep climb up to Paintbrush Divide, the views along this trail made it worth my sore legs the next day.
The Trail
Since this is a loop trail, it can be hiked either clockwise or counterclockwise. My preference is counterclockwise up Paintbrush Canyon on this one because you get the steepest portion out of the way early in the day. I prefer climbing the steepest portions of trails, and going down the more mellow portions – it’s easier on your legs.
Start at the String Lake Trailhead near Jenny Lake. The trail takes you right into Paintbrush Canyon and you immediately have amazing views of wildflowers, mountain creeks, and of course the Teton mountain range looming overhead. Once you reach Holly Lake, you’ll really start climbing in elevation. The rocky granite trail starts to zig-zag until you reach Paintbrush Divide, which is the highest point of the hike. Take it in! This was one of my favorite spots in the park.
From there you’ll begin the descent into Cascade Canyon, down to Solitude Lake which is a popular spot for backpackers. You’ll continue meandering back down the Canyon, again through beautiful patches of wildflowers and mountain creeks. This is where my legs really start to get wobbly… it’s mostly downhill but you’ve put in so many miles at this point, that even the fittest hikers start to feel the burn!
Once you’re back to the trailhead, go have a beer at Dornan’s! And congrats, you’ve just completed one of the very best hikes at Grand Teton!
Death Canyon to Patrol Cabin
Death Canyon is the southernmost canyon in the Tetons, and personally I think it’s the most under-rated. The drive to the canyon is enough to keep out a few handfuls of visitors, as it’s a pretty bumpy and pothole ridden road. I recommend having a 4 wheel drive vehicle to get to the trailhead but it’s not absolutely necessary (I had a Honda Accord at the time and was OK).
It’s a strenuous hike – you gain 2,000 feet of elevation as you ascend into the canyon, but views of the cliff faces are remarkable. You’ll be able to see why it’s a popular destination for climbers! You’ll also have amazing views of Phelps Lake and the surrounding forests and meadows.
The Patrol Cabin is about 4 miles back, making the hike about 8 miles round trip. At a little less than 2 miles, you can take a side trail down to Phelps Lake, or continue straight to the cabin. The cabin itself is a small CCC era cabin that’s still in use as a ranger patrol cabin, but don’t turn around just yet! Keep going up the Alaska Basin Trail just a short distance and you’ll be rewarded with some incredible views of the upper end of Death Canyon. You’re welcome!
Delta Lake Trail
This might be one of the most beautiful trails I’ve ever hiked, and easily one of my favorite hikes in the Tetons. I think I said that in the Paintbrush Divide hike, but what can I say? I love it here! The lake sits in the shadow of the Grand Teton mountain, and is the most beautiful shade of teal or turquoise I’ve ever seen.
Start the hike at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead and head towards Amphitheater Lake. This is a cool trail to take because it also serves as the approach trail for climbers summiting the Grand. After about 3 miles, there’s a footpath and some wood stairs to mark the trail. The trail itself is not maintained by the NPS so it’s not in quite as good of shape as the Amphitheater trail, but it’s not bad. There are a series of cairns that mark the path through a boulder field so you won’t get lost.
Once you reach the end of the boulder field, there’s a steep dirt path that goes up through some trees and boulders before you level off to see the lake. It is absolutely breathtaking. You’re right in this little nook of the Tetons and it feels MAGICAL! Definitely one of the best hikes in Grand Teton.
I recommend starting this one early, like around 7. It’s become more popular in recent years, but if you leave early you can still have it to yourself for a moment or two.
Bradley Taggart Lake Loop
Hiking the Bradley Lake and Taggart Lake Loop Trail is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful scenery of Grand Teton National Park. The loop trail is approximately 6.5 miles (10.5 kilometers) long and is considered moderate in difficulty. It typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent enjoying the surroundings.
The trail starts at the Taggart Lake Trailhead, located at the Taggart Lake parking area, which is easily accessible from the Teton Park Road. From the Taggart Lake Trailhead, the trail initially follows the Taggart Lake Trail, taking you through a beautiful forested area and offering picturesque views of the Teton Range. After about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), you’ll reach Taggart Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by stunning mountains.
At Taggart Lake, you have the option to continue the loop by taking the Bradley Lake Trail. This trail branches off from the Taggart Lake Trail and leads you to Bradley Lake, another scenic lake tucked away in a peaceful setting.
After enjoying Bradley Lake, you’ll rejoin the main loop trail, which heads back towards the trailhead. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful meadows and have the opportunity to spot wildlife. The loop trail offers diverse landscapes and breathtaking views throughout, easily making it one of the best hikes in Grand Teton.
Ribbon Lake Trail
I absolutely love this hike. It’s the perfect distance for a solid half-day (or more) hike that takes you through some beautiful landscapes and gets you into the backcountry.
The Ribbon Lake Trail is approximately 8.8 miles (14.2 kilometers) long and is considered a moderate to strenuous hike. It involves a significant elevation gain and challenging sections, making it more suitable for experienced hikers or those in good physical condition. The trail can be accessed from the String Lake Trailhead, which is located near the North Jenny Lake area. The trailhead is easily accessible from the Jenny Lake Visitor Center or the South Jenny Lake area via the String Lake Trail.
The trail takes you through a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. As you hike, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Teton Range and surrounding valleys. Ribbon Lake itself is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks, making it a picturesque destination along the trail.
Since the Ribbon Lake Trail ventures into the backcountry, it’s important to be well-prepared. Carry sufficient water, food, and essential hiking gear, including a map, compass, and appropriate clothing. Be aware of wildlife in the area, including bears, and follow park guidelines for safety and bear awareness.
What to Wear
My clothing recommendations for hiking in the Emigrant Wilderness varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.
On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the limestone and granite out there!
Grand Teton National Park is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Follow these tips and insights to make the most of your visit, and don’t forget to take in the awe-inspiring views and wildlife.
That’s my list! I hope this helped you plan and get excited for the best hikes at Grand Teton! What are your favorite hikes in this beautiful park?
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
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