16 Fun Things to do in Grand Teton National Park

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If you’re looking for the best things to do in Grand Teton National Park, you’re in the right place!

Grand Teton National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, ensuring a memorable experience amid its stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or seeking a more relaxed itinerary, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque destination.

As you explore Grand Teton National Park, get ready for a special experience that goes beyond just pretty views. The park has much to offer, and it’s not just about the stunning landscapes.

Whether you love exciting adventures on challenging trails or prefer quiet moments by a beautiful lake, Grand Teton National Park has it all!

Get ready for an adventure, and let Grand Teton National Park be the backdrop for your amazing journey! Here are the best things to do in Grand Teton National Park.

Best Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

Rent a kayak at Jenny Lake

Wondering what to do in Grand Teton National Park? Consider renting a kayak at Jenny Lake for a refreshing and leisurely adventure. Gliding on the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the towering Teton peaks, offers a unique perspective of the park’s beauty.

The best time to start on this aquatic escapade is during the early morning or late afternoon, allowing you to bask in the serene ambiance and perhaps catch a stunning sunset reflection on the water.

So, get your paddle ready and set out to Jenny Lake, a must-try activity for a memorable day at Grand Teton National Park.

Visit Snake River Overlook

For an exceptional experience in Grand Teton National Park, don’t miss a visit to Snake River Overlook. This spot is a journey into the heart of the park’s beauty. Capture breathtaking views of the Snake River meandering through the valley, framed by the majestic Teton Range.

The magic amplifies during sunrise or sunset, casting a warm glow on the landscape and creating ideal photo opportunities. Consider bringing binoculars to observe wildlife or relish a peaceful picnic with a backdrop that’s nothing short of spectacular.

Learn at the Visitor Center

Discovering the best things to do in Grand Teton National Park starts with a stop at the Visitor Center. It’s a hub of knowledge and exploration, located just a short drive from the park entrance.

Engage with friendly park rangers who share insights on the best trails and wildlife sightings. Moreover, take advantage of the Visitor Center’s eco-friendly amenities, including recycling facilities, accessible restrooms, a theater/auditorium, trash receptacles, and a water bottle-filling station.

Make the Visitor Center your first stop to ensure a well-informed and enriched experience in the heart of Grand Teton National Park. This is also the spot to go to if you want to get a stamp inside your national park passport!

Photograph the View from Schwabacher Landing

Planning for a photography expedition at Schwabacher Landing in one of the captivating USA National Parks in the West is an absolute must for any avid adventurer.

We recommend seizing the opportunity during the early morning as the rising sun bathes the mountains in warm hues, casting a breathtaking glow on the surroundings and amplifying the reflections.

The tranquility of the river and the mirror-like reflections make this a truly immersive and unforgettable photographic experience. If you’re a lover of nature’s beauty or an aspiring photographer, Schwabacher Landing is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Hike to Hidden Falls

The trail to Hidden Falls winds through lush pine forests, offering breathtaking vistas that set the stage for an unforgettable experience. It’s an ideal activity for nature admirers, providing a perfect snapshot of the park’s diverse landscapes.

Along the way, be sure to savor splendid views of the towering 12,325-foot Teewinot Mountain, gracing the canyon towards the west. This 1.3-mile hike has 230 feet of elevation gain.

What makes this hike truly enjoyable is the anticipation of reaching Hidden Falls. The falls themselves are a sight to behold, with water cascading down the rocks, creating a sensory delight.

Picnic in the Park

A weekend trip to Grand Teton National Park is incomplete without indulging in the timeless joy of a picnic in the park. Spreading a blanket amidst the towering peaks and serene lakes surely adds an unforgettable dimension to the visit.

Whether it’s the shores of Jenny Lake or the tranquil meadows dotted with wildflowers, the park offers a plethora of picturesque spots, each one seemingly tailor-made for a perfect picnic setting.

The beauty intensifies during the golden hours, making sunset picnics a particularly magical experience.

Camp Overnight

Camping Overnight is an exhilarating adventure that transcends the ordinary and gives you an exquisite opportunity to embrace nature at night. The crackling of the campfire, the symphony of nocturnal sounds, and the camaraderie of fellow campers create an atmosphere brimming with excitement and warmth.

Cooking marshmallows over an open flame, sharing stories beneath the celestial canopy, and drifting into sleep surrounded by the serenity of the wilderness forge lasting memories.

There are quite a few different campgrounds throughout Grand Teton National Park, with the biggest being Colter Bay Campground (324 standard sites) and Gros Ventre Campground (279 standard sites).

Find the Chapel of the Transfiguration

Visiting the Chapel of the Transfiguration in Grand Teton National Park is a cool thing to do around Teton National Park. The chapel sits with a view of the beautiful Teton mountains, making it a unique spot for quiet time.

The best time to go is in the morning when the sunlight makes everything look magical. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take a short hike around the area afterward.

Notably, it played a pivotal role in the 1963 movie Spencer’s Mountain, filmed in Jackson Hole and starring Henry Fonda and Maureen O’Hara.

Snap a photo at Mormon Row

Mormon Row in Teton National Park is a photographer’s paradise, where the iconic Moulton Barn against the Grand Tetons creates a visually stunning scene. It’s ideal for early morning or late afternoon visits.

Widening the lens of your camera captures not only the most photographed barn in the world but also an extensive spread of preserved area. Beyond its picturesque appeal, Mormon Row exudes historical significance, providing a serene and laid-back atmosphere during quieter times for a truly immersive experience.

Look for wildlife

Venturing into Teton National Park to spot wildlife is a thrilling adventure that turns every corner into a potential encounter with nature’s wonders. Whether it’s the graceful elk, majestic moose, or elusive wolves, the park teems with diverse wildlife.

Early mornings and late evenings offer prime opportunities, as animals are more active during these times. Hiking trails and scenic drives provide ample chances to witness these creatures in their natural habitat.

Trek to Inspiration Point

Exploring the moderate, 5.7-mile round-trip hike to Inspiration Point is a must for visitors of Grand Teton National Park. With an elevation gain of 870 feet, the trail winds through lush landscapes, culminating in breathtaking views of Jenny Lake and the surrounding peaks.

The other option is to get to Inspiration Point via a shuttle boat. This is a much easier trail, about 1.8 miles with 550 feet of elevation gain.

The best times are early morning or late afternoon when the sun paints the scenery with warm hues. If you’re looking for top-notch things to do in Grand Teton National Park, this trek is a no-brainer; it’s a short adventure with a massive scenic payoff.

Snowshoe on a trail

Snowshoeing on a trail in the winter is a slice of winter wonderland bliss. Strapping on those snowshoes and venturing into the snow-covered landscape feels like stepping into a serene, frozen fairy tale.

The muffled crunch of snow beneath your feet and the crisp winter air create an immersive experience. The best time to hit the trails is early morning when the world is still and draped in a blanket of fresh snow.

Snowshoeing in the park was my favorite part of my winter trip to Grand Teton National Park. It’s so calm and beautiful! Sometimes, there are also ranger-led snowshoeing expeditions throughout the park.

Drive the Scenic Route Through the Park

Cruising along the park’s scenic routes, hitting up Signal Mountain Road, Moose Wilson Road, Rockefeller Parkway, and Highway 191, feels like you’re rolling through a living painting.

Early mornings or late afternoons are the best time to explore the drive, with the sun doing its thing on the mountains. This is usually when there are fewer people, too. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; you might catch a bunch of elk just chilling and eagles doing their majestic soar.

With every twist and turn, a brand-new, Insta-worthy sight comes into view, making the entire drive a cool adventure through nature’s canvas.

Wake Board at Jackson Lake

Wakeboarding at Jackson Lake in Teton National Park is an absolute thrill. The combination of carving through crystal-clear waters with the breathtaking Teton landscape as your backdrop is pure exhilaration.

The best time to hit the waves is early morning; the tranquil waters and the backdrop of the Teton peaks create a surreal setting.

Even if you’re out for the first time, Jackson Lake in Teton National Park promises a day of adrenaline-pumping fun against a stunning natural backdrop.

Hike the Taggart Lake Trail

Exploring the Taggart Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park is like entering a nature wonderland with towering pine forests and wildflower-strewn meadows. The early morning trek, especially at sunrise, bathes the surroundings in a magical golden glow.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer a casual stroll, Taggart Lake Trail offers a ticket to embrace the stunning beauty of Grand Teton National Park. Just be sure to start your adventure from the Taggart Lake Trailhead, and remember to carry ample water, stay vigilant of your surroundings, and respect distance limitations.

Given the area’s active wildlife, including bears, it’s crucial never to approach wild animals for your safety. This moderate trail is 3.8 miles long and takes about an hour and a half to complete.

Whitewater Raft on Snake River

Get on an exhilarating Snake River whitewater rafting adventure in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offering thrilling rapids and stunning Teton Range scenery. Optimal rafting times are late morning or early afternoon for peak water flow. Keep an eye out for wildlife, from moose to pelicans.

Join in on the 13-mile Wilson Scenic Float, winding through Grand Teton National Park’s beauty, if you want to go with a group.

Whether opting for classic or small boat slam trips, the Snake River guarantees an unforgettable and diverse adventure, complemented by opportunities for riverside picnics and nature walks.

Final Thoughts

Grand Teton National Park transforms with the seasons, offering a variety of delights for visitors throughout the year.

Whether it’s snowshoes for a serene trek during the winter, whitewater rafting on Snake River, or capturing the perfect shot along Mormon Row, the park delivers an array of unforgettable things to do in Grand Teton National Park.

So, lace up those hiking boots and set foot on a journey filled with exciting things to do in Grand Teton National Park.

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