Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park - KÜHL’s Top Picks

Grand Teton National Park is a wonderland of sweeping landscapes, spectacular flora, and fauna. Sitting barely 10 miles south of Yellowstone, "Les Trois Tetons" or "The Three Breasts" have something for all visitors.

Enjoy scenic safari rides with excellent wildlife viewing, or take a scenic cruise on Lake Jenny. Better yet, pack your favorite hiking food and get ready to challenge some of the most rewarding trails in this park. 

Whatever you delight in, let's talk about the best things to do in Grand Teton National Park. Also, find our tips for how to get there and where to stay based on your Grand Tetons’ things-to-do bucket list. 

Grand Teton National Park - Things to Know Before Visiting

How to Get There

Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, roughly five miles from Jackson. The best airport to fly into for Grand Teton National Park is the Jackson Hole Airport, located inside the park. You can also save hundreds of dollars by flying into a larger international airport like Bozeman Yellowstone (166 miles) or Salt Lake City (286 miles). 

If driving to Grand Teton National Park, you have three entrance options, depending on where you're coming from:

• Moose entrance - best if you are staying in Jackson. Take 191/26/89 North to the park (30-60 mins). 
• Granite Canyon entrance - this scenic drive is the best if you are coming from Idaho or Utah. 
• Moran entrance will be the easiest entrance into Grand Teton National Park for visitors coming from Denver via Dubois using highways 26 and 289 (approx 8 hours). 

How Many Days to Spend There

Plan to spend at least three days if this is your first visit. This is the perfect amount of time to hit most of the Grand Teton things to do, including doing popular hikes, visiting several viewpoints, scenic driving, and wildlife spotting. 

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is mid-June to mid-July. Around this time, the weather is warm but still mild; park activities, including hiking, camping, and kayaking, are open, and the crowds are still thin.

The best time for camping in Grand Teton National Park is between mid-August and mid-September. The weather is excellent, the campsites are accessible, and the mosquito problem has subsided. 

Where to Stay

Here are the most popular accommodation options inside Grand Teton National Park: 

• Lodges - Jackson Lake Lodge, Jenny Lake Lodge, Colter Bay Village, and Headwaters Lodge and Cabins. 
• Tent camping - there are five campgrounds within Teton National Park, including Jenny Lake and Signal Mountain. 
• RV camping - Colter Bay Village RV Park has 112 sites that accommodate RVs and trailers up to 45 feet in length. 

Where to stay near Grand Teton National Park:

• Jackson Town (13.5 miles)
• Moran (18.8 miles)
• Wilson (20.1 miles)
• Teton Village (25.3 miles)

What To Do And See in Grand Teton National Park

For the Casual Hiker

Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake is one of the most popular attractions and a must-see in Grand Teton National Park. While there are several ways of experiencing it, most hikers prefer looping it. The Jenny Lake loop is approximately 7.1 miles and takes roughly 2.5 hours to complete. The trail takes you through numerous scenic spots, including the Cathedral Group, Cascade Canyon, and Moose Ponds. At Moose Ponds, you can quickly detour to an overlook where you will likely see moose and beaver. 

Jenny Lake is tucked at the Teton Range's base off Highway 26/89 along Teton Park Road. 

Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Hike

This 1.8-mile hike is one of the most popular things to do at Grand Teton National Park, so plan to get an early start to beat the crowds. Its key highlight is the 100-foot cascading waterfall, plus the magnificent views of Jenny Lake, the Jackson Hole Valley, and the Cathedral Group. 

The Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point hiking trail is located on the west side of Jenny Lake. Visitors can take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake or trek around the southern lakeshore. 

Moose Ponds

Moose Ponds are two ponds located on the southwestern end of Jenny Lake. They are named so because of the moose frequently hanging around the area. Considered an easy route, this 2.7-mile relatively flat hiking trail offers outstanding views of Teewinot Mountain and Jenny Lake. The Moose Ponds trail starts from Jenny Lake trailhead, located west of Teton Park Road, about 7.7 miles north of Moose Junction. 

Jackson Lake Overlook

Jackson is a huge glacial lake at the foot of the Tetons. Plenty of spots along the road offer views of this 400-foot-deep natural lake. But most visitors agree that this overlook is one of the best. It offers 360-degree views of Grand Teton National Park, the Tetons, and Ribbon Cascade. And it's less crowded than Jenny Lake. 

To get to Jackson Lake Overlook, drive roughly six miles north of Colter Bay Village on John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway (Highway 89).

Leigh Lake Trail

Leigh Lake Trail is one of the best things to do in the Tetons if you want a relatively short and easy hike with outstanding views. This alpine lake draws visitors with its magical setting and peaceful surroundings backgrounded by towering mountains.

Leigh Lake trail is 1.8 miles long. Its trailhead is located just north of Jenny Lake on the eastern shore of String Lake. 

Snake River Overlook

Ansel Adams’ “The Tetons and the Snake River” is one of the best-known photographs of this park. The Snake River Overlook is the exact location where Adams took his photograph. It has become a must-see Grand Teton National Park spot for many amateur photographers because it creates a breathtaking contrast between the jagged peaks of the Teton mountains and the slow-moving river. The Snake River Overlook is located south of Jackson Lake off Highway 191/89/26. 

Spur Trail

For some of the best views in the Grand Teton National Park, make sure the Spur Trail is on your to-do list. This is a scenic trail with jaw-dropping views of several Teton peaks, including Albright Peak, Prospectors Mountain, Mount Hunt, and Apres Vous Peak. The Spur Trail starts on the eastern section of Phelps Lake. 

For the Advanced Hiker

Cascade Canyon Trail 

If you’re wondering what to do in Grand Teton National Park and are in great shape, we dare you to challenge the Cascade Canyon Trail. This is a 9.4-mile moderately strenuous rocky trail that takes around 8 hours to complete. You’ll go past Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, ponds, and the Forks of Cascade Canyon. To get to Cascade Canyon Trailhead, you can take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake from the visitor center or hike the Jenny Lake Trail around its south section. 

Static Peak Divide

The hike to Static Peak Divide starts near the Death Canyon Barn. While it’s a moderate climb at first, it gets steeper over the next few miles, leading to an elevation gain of up to 5,590 ft at the summit of Static Peak Divide. Some highlights of this hike include the Phelps Lake Overlook, Death Canyon, and the historic Death Canyon Patrol Cabin. 

The Static Peak Divide hike is 16.3 miles long (roundtrip) and takes 9-11 hours to complete. 

Surprise Lake Trail 

Surprise Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes you can hike to in Grand Teton National Park. But be warned that the 9.2-mile round trip is difficult and requires time and effort. Surprise Lake hike starts at Lupine Meadows Trailhead, located west of Teton Park Road, roughly seven miles north of Moose Junction. 

Amphitheater Lakes Trail 

Amphitheater Lake is roughly 0.2 miles west of Surprise Lake. It makes sense to check out both lakes in one hike. As a reminder, the hike to both lakes is tiring, but the views at the top are worth it. Bring lots of water and wear and reapply sunscreen often. 

Lake Solitude Trail 

The hike to Lake Solitude Trail is one of the best things to do at Grand Teton National Park. You’ll be trekking across one of the most beautiful canyons in the park, with lots of wildlife viewing opportunities. Plus, you get a chance for that perfect photograph of Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, and Grand Teton. The Lake Solitude hike is 14.6 miles long (round trip). It starts at Jenny Lake trailhead. 

Paintbrush Canyon Trail 

If your idea of the best things to do in the Grand Tetons is to conquer their hardest trail, then this is it. The Paintbrush Canyon- Cascade Canyon Loop has an elevation gain of close to 4000 ft across 19.7 miles. But it’s also one of the most rewarding in that you hit most of this park’s major spots in a single hike: Jenny Lake, Teewinot Mountain, Lake Solitude, Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon, and Paintbrush Canyon. This loop trail begins from the Leigh Lake Trailhead, just north of Jenny Lake Lodge. 

For the Water Lover

String Lake

Jenny Lake may be the most famous lake in the Tetons. But String Lake takes the crown if you want a less-crowded lake that also allows most of the best things to do in Teton National Park with family. Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sunbathing, and picnicking are some of the things you can do here. Plus, many beginner to expert-level hikes start here. String Lake is located just north of Jenny Lake. Drive Highway 191 north from Jackson and turn left onto Teton Park Road. Take another left turn onto Jenny Lake Road and a right turn onto String Lake Road. 

Taggart Lake Loop

For a hiking trail that accommodates even little legs, consider Taggart Lake Loop. This is a 6-mile easy hike with some of the most beautiful views of the Tetons. The highlight of this hike is the reflection of the Teton peaks in the crystal-clear water. You might also spot moose, bears, elk, and deer in the forest and meadows that line up the trail. The trailhead for Taggart Lake Loop is located 2.3 miles north of Moose Entrance on Teton Park Road. 

Boating, Kayaking, and Rafting

With their crystal clear water, the majestic lakes of the Tetons allow different types of paddling adventures. Boating fanatics will prefer Jenny and Jackson Lakes as these two are open to motorized boats. You can rent a boat at Jenny Lake Boating and Signal Mountain Marina. Kayaking is also allowed on Snake River and most lakes, including Jenny, Jackson, Phelps, Two Ocean, Bradley, and Emma Matilda. Note that permits are required for all motorized and non-motorized water vessels in Grand Teton National Park. 

For the Wildlife Enthusiast

Bison and Elk Viewing

Wildlife viewing is one of the most popular Grand Teton National Park things to do with family. It’s possible to spot wildlife pretty much anywhere within the park. But the National Elk Refuge, just four miles north of Jackson Town on Highway 89, offers you higher chances of seeing thousands of elks and bison grazing. 

Bear Watching

Grand Teton National Park is home to both black and grizzly bears. It’s possible to encounter them just about anywhere and anytime. But they seem to prefer hanging around some areas more than others. These include Moose Wilson Road, Signal Mountain, Colter Bay, Two Ocean, and Emma Matilda Lakes. 

Moose Watching

Moose are so common in Grand Teton National Park they have a road, a junction, and two ponds named after them. Like bears, bison, and elks, it’s possible to spot moose virtually anywhere around Grand Teton National Park. However, some areas increase your chances of seeing moose when visiting the Tetons than others. Look for moose along Moose Wilson Road, Gros Ventre River, Moose Junction, and Schwabacher Landing. Moose Ponds are another prime moose habitat in Grand Teton National Park. 

For the Fisherman

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is more than just a sport. It’s fun, soothing, and an accidental workout. And it’s one of the best things to do at Teton National Park. Cutthroat trout are the biggest draw for anglers visiting the Tetons because they thrive in almost every lake, river, and stream. But keep in mind that these will probably be the hardest fighting trouts you’ve ever encountered. If you’d like to learn more about this activity, read our guide on how to fly fish.

For Those Desiring Scenic Views

42-Mile Scenic Drive

In your search for what to do at Grand Teton National Park, you’ve probably come across doing the 42-mile scenic drive. We highly recommend doing it, especially if you don’t have much time or want to see a lot of things in one day. This is a 42-mile loop that lets you experience the best of the Tetons in 2-8 hours: stunning views, geological features, historical sites, animal habitats, and lots of wildlife. 

Moose Wilson Road

The Moose Wilson Road is an 8-mile dirt road connecting Moose and Wilson towns. But it’s not just another bumpy dirt road in the forest. This incredible scenic drive offers memorable sights with every twist and turn. As the fresh air from the hillsides fills your lungs, look out for moose and beavers that call this area home. The Moose Wilson Road also gives you access to other areas of interest in this park, including Death Canyon to Phelps Lakes trailhead, Granite Canyon, and the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center. 

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is another Grand Teton National Park must-see attraction. Most visitors come here with a mindset to explore the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. While these are among its major highlights, Jackson Hole, which comprises the towns of Jackson, Teton Village, and Wilson, has much more to offer. Other major attractions in Jackson Hole include the Historical Society and Museum, National Museum of Wildlife Art, Granite Hot Springs, and Jackson Hole Playhouse. 

Oxbow Bend

The reflection of Mount Moran in the calm water of this crescent-shaped section of the Snake River looks like something out of an artist’s mind. Once you get there, it immediately becomes clear why this is one of the most photographed spots in Grand Teton National Park. The Oxbow Bend Overlook is located in the northern part of Grand Teton National Park near the eastern entrance. It’s along Highway 89/191 between Jackson and Moran Junctions. 

Schwabacher Landing 

Like Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher Landing is famous for its breathtaking reflections of the Grand Teton and its fellow peaks. This overlook and photo spot is located on the Snake River, just five miles north of Moose and approximately 25 minutes from Jackson town. While it offers great views any time of the day, try to reach just before sunrise for the perfect photos and wildlife viewing.          

Mormon Row Historic District

Photographers and history buffs looking for what to do in the Grand Tetons should include this historic community in their itinerary. The Mormon Row Historic District is a set of long-deserted homesteads from the 1890s. The Mormon settlers must have been drawn to this part of Wyoming by the availability of fertile soils and water for irrigation. But the postcard-worthy views of the Tetons in the background probably influenced their decision, too. In addition to photographing the buildings, visitors can bike, hike, and spot the wildlife browsing the fields. 

The Mormon Row Historic District is located inside Grand Teton National Park, roughly 15 miles north of Jackson.

Chapel of Transfiguration 

The Chapel of Transfiguration is a small log cabin inside the Grand Teton National Park. It was built in 1925 to offer a closer worship center for dude rancher church-goers, who initially had to travel all the way to Jackson town. Close to 100 years later, the Episcopal Chapel of Transfiguration continues to be a place of spiritual refreshment and inspiration to this park’s visitors. The Chapel seats 65 people (plus additional seating outside, weather permitting) and holds Sunday masses from May through September. 

The Chapel of Transfiguration is located inside Teton National Park’s Moose entrance in the Moose community. It’s 15 miles from Jackson Town.

Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve (formerly the JY Dude Ranch) was a retreat center for the Rockefeller family. In 2001, Laurance S. Rockefeller gifted the 1,106-acre private ranch to the US National Park Service to continue with his family’s conservation legacy. Today, the Preserve has some of the best things to do in the Grand Tetons for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a serene spot to be alone with only your thoughts or enjoy some fresh air on an easy hike, you’ll get it here. The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve is located in the southwest section of Grand Teton National Park between Moose, WY, and Teton Village. 

Additional Activities 

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Grand Teton National Park is not only fun. For suburbanites, this is an excellent way to go back into the Old West and roam the park as the cowboys did in the 1800s. Horseback riding is a significant highlight of things to do in Teton. There are lots of tour providers that make this a memorable experience in Teton Village, Jackson Hole, and the area near Moose. 

Biking

Hiking and taking scenic drives aren’t the only ways of experiencing the grandeur of Grand Teton National Park. Biking offers another fun way of taking in the views while burning some calories. And there are miles upon miles of paved pathways designed with two-wheeled speedsters in mind within the park and in the neighboring towns of Teton Village, Wilson, and Jackson. A cyclist pass is necessary for biking in Grand Teton National Park. It costs $20 and is valid for one week. Bike rentals are available in the three towns named above. 

What to Bring to Grand Teton National Park

• Nylon zip-off pants
• Long-sleeves
• Short-sleeves
• Shorts (not necessary if your long pants zip off)
• Bottoms and top lightweight wool thermal underwear for cold weather (May and September)
• Wool socks for hiking
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Waterproof/watertight jacket for surprise afternoon showers
• Swimwear
• Sun hat

Other Grand Teton National Park essentials 

• A reusable water bottle
• First-aid supplies- modify and download your kit from our pre-made First Aid Checklist 
• Sunglasses 
• Sunscreen lotion
• Quick-drying travel towel
• Bear spray
• Mosquito repellant 
• Binoculars
• Camera gear 

Hey there: If you are wondering where to shop for season-specific outdoor apparel, check out KÜHL clothing. Shop women’s hiking clothes or men’s outdoor wear for the latest arrivals on Mountain Culture-inspired pants, shorts, long-sleeves, t-shirts, tanks, and more. 

Tips for Visiting Grand Teton National Park

• Plan your accommodation. Lodge rooms and campsites tend to fill months in advance. Luckily, they can be reserved up to six months in advance. 
• Be bear aware. Grand Teton National Park is a bear country. Always stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards from other animals. 
• You can bring your furry pets. But they must stay restrained and off hiking trails and inside visitor centers. 
• Plan to arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM to beat the crowds and secure parking for your vehicle. 
• Be extra-cautious while driving inside the park and maintain a safe following distance. 
• A day is not enough for all the things to see in Grand Teton National Park. Plan to spend at least two days, especially if you want to hike. 

Final Thoughts

Grand Teton National Park is positively brimming with fun things to do. And you don’t have to search far to fill your itinerary. See the highlights of the Tetons like Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, Snake River Overlook, and Oxbow Bend. Lace up your hiking boots and search for bears, bison, moose, elk, and more. Or take a more relaxed approach by taking a horseback or bike ride. There are so many things to do in Grand Teton National Park you’ll want to visit year after year.

Featured image, Oxbow Bend, Grand Tetons National Park by: Nate Foong.