The state of Wyoming is filled with lots of natural beauty, and Grand Teton National Park is no exception. The park boasts tall, jagged mountain peaks, surrounded by clear lakes and colorful flora.
After spending two days in Grand Teton NP, I want to make sure that you are prepared to experience the beauty that this park has to offer. This Grand Teton guide will cover recommendations on food, lodging, hiking trails, and excursions by providing a 2-day itinerary for spending time in the park.
Anthony and Gianna at Grand Teton National Park sign in Wyoming. Grand Teton Guide
When is the best time to visit Grand Teton National Park?
I visited Grand Teton NP in the month of July. During this, I was able to see many animals and flowers in bloom. The warm summer temperatures allow you to take advantage of hiking trails, horseback riding, and fishing.
Keep in mind that the temperature in Grand Teton NP can fluctuate wildly depending on the season. Summer temperatures range from 80 degree highs to 40 degree lows (Fahrenheit), providing warm sunny days and crisp, cool nights. The winters in Grand Teton hold an average high of 28 degrees and an average low of 2 degrees Fahrenheit.
Summer Landscape of Grand Teton NP. Grand Teton Guide
Where to Stay in Grand Teton NP
Inside of Grand Teton NP you will finds6 campgrounds ranging from the northern tip of the park, Headwaters Campground, to the southern end of the park, Gros Ventre Campground. Between these campsites are Lizard Creek, Colter Bay (RV Park), Signal Mountain, and Jenny Lake.
Camping in Grand Teton National Park.
Because my trip to Grand Teton was slightly last minute, I was only able to book two nights at Gros Ventre (pronounced grow – vont ) campsite. However, it ended up being a very pleasant stay with a great view of the mountain range!
Outside of the park, you can find many private campsites and luxurious ranch houses to stay at, depending on your budget. Some options that provide close access to the park are Atherton Creek in Teton National Forest for $20/night, or Triangle X Ranch for around $450/night during the peak season.
During the busy months of Grand Teton National Park (May through September), campsites within the park fill up extremely quickly. Make sure to plan at least 1-2 months in advance in order to reserve a campsite inside the park boundaries.
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What to wear in Grand Teton NP
As stated earlier: the weather inside Grand Teton NP varies drastically. Be prepared to face temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the day and lows of around 50 – 60 in the night. Here are the items that I recommend in order to stay comfortable during your time at Grand Teton NP:
- Moisture-wiking T-shirts and hiking pants : having clothes that will keep the sweat off during the heat of the day time is very important. Having a top and bottom with UPF protection is an extra bonus that will keep you from burning in the harsh Wyoming sun.
- Hiking shoes: a must-have for any adventure off of the concrete. Most trails are dirt and will require shoes that provide stability and balance. (tip: I was able to buy the Merell Moab 3 hiking shoes for almost half-off the in-store price. Check here to buy yours! (Amazon))
- Light / Medium Jacket : During the evening, temperatures can drop as low as 40 degrees F, making it uncomfortable if wearing a T-shirt and shorts. Make sure to pack a jacket to stay warm during the night.
- Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen: The sun at Grand Teton NP is no joke. Make sure to pack these items to keep your eyes and skin safe during the summer.
2 Days in Grand Teton NP – Day 1
Breakfast at Cowboy Coffee Co.
Start your day in Downtown Jackson at Cowboy Coffee Co. It’s an excellent local coffee shop with cool decorations and a very inviting atmosphere! As a souvenir, you can take home a bag of their freshly-roasted beans. They offer drip coffees lattes, tea and more with a variety of flavor shots. For eats, grab a cowboy croissant or burrito, they are delicious!
Horseback Adventure
Anthony and Gianna take on the Big Grand Teton View by Horseback! Grand Teton Guide
What better way to start the day than with a horseback ride through the Teton Forests. Located in Moran, WY, Swift Creek Outfitters is a great destination to enjoy a scenic horseback ride at the time of your choice. The ranch has more than 100 horses and guides that are ready to go from 7:30am to 3:45pm. No reservation needed!
We recommend choosing the 2 Hour Big Grand Teton View, for $115 per person. This tour gives you just the right amount of riding time and allows you to climb 400ft of trails to experience a breathtaking view of the Teton mountain range.
Lunch at Schwabachers Landing
To get an even close view of the Tetons, head to Schwabachers Landing on the way back from horseback riding. Bring your own food and settle in for a picnic for views of Snake River and the majestic mountains.
Location: A few miles south of Snake River Overlook, along the east shore of Snake River in Grand Teton NP. Boat landing is located off of U.S. Route 191. Search Schwabacher Landing on Google Maps.
Schwabachers Landing Boat Launch, Grand Teton NP
Shopping in the Town Square of Jackson, WY
After soaking in the views of the mountains, it’s time to head to the charming town of Jackson. Here you can find restaurants, souvenir shops, outfitters, and more. I recommend taking time to explore any shops that you are interested in, as most of the town can be accessed by walking.
Elk Antler Gates in Downtown Jackson, WY. Grand Teton Guide
Dinner in Downtown Jackson
When dinner time comes, here are some highly rated restaurants that offer great food:
- Teton Tiger: Thai, Indian, Japanese cuisine. Reservation recommended. Try the Chicken Lettuce wraps, Butter curry, or Shanghai noodles.
- Handfire Pizza: Organic, locally sourced ingredients in a variety of pizzas. Choose from a classic cheese or a Bison of a Gun with bison chili!
- Hatch Taqueria & Tequilas: serving traditional tacos with homage salsas. Enjoy a drink from their expansive margarita menu!
Jackson Hole Rodeo
To enjoy the evening, head to the Jackson Hole Rodeo to watch a local show featuring round-ups, bull riding, and sheep chasing. The rodeo is suitable for all ages and is great entertainment! Keep in mind that the Jackson Rodeo always takes place at 8pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day with some shows on Fridays in July and August. Make sure to grab tickets at least 2 weeks in advance, as this show sells out quickly.
Enjoying the Bull Riding at Jackson Rodeo
2 Days in Grand Teton NP – Day 2
Breakfast in Grand Teton NP
Head into Grand Teton NP bright and early and grab breakfast at Dornans Chuckwagon, located in Moran along Teton Park Road, on the way to Jenny Lake. Here you can find hearty American breakfast options like eggs, bacon, and pancakes, or biscuits and gravy.
Hiking Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point
Continue along Teton Park Rd. to reach the Jenny Lake visitor center and parking for the trail. This trails is a round-trip hike around Jenny Lake that allows for breathtaking viewpoints and lots of wildlife viewing opportunities. To hike around the lake, plan on 3 hours of hiking and 7.1 miles of distance. Adding inspiration point will tack on another 2 miles, and 1 extra hour of hiking.
If you only want to hike half the lake, book the Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle that will transport you across the lake directly to the trailhead of Inspiration Point. Reservations are not required, but wait times do increase throughout the day, so plan on arriving early.
Boat Tour on Jenny Lake, Grand Teton NP. Grand Teton Guide
Seeing Mormon Row
Travel to Mormon row to catch a glimpse of Grand Teton History. The district comprises a series of houses, arranged in a row, settled amongst a backdrop of the Teton mountain range. These houses are from some of the earliest Mormon people to settle in the Jackson Hole area.
Grand Teton Guide: TA Moulton Barn in Mormon Row
Location: Moose, WY. Head down Hwy 191 until reaching Antelope Flats Rd. Continue straight to Mormon Row
Dinner
If you aren’t in the mood to cook your own dinner at the campfire, try The Merry Piglets Mexican restaurant. With house-made guacamole, chips, and salsa, you can’t go wrong with this place! (I rank them extra points because they gave me a free margarita!)
Conclusion
Being able to see Grand Teton National Park was one of my favorite experiences along my trip. I would definitely rank Grand Teton NP as one of my favorite parks!
Having the ability to witness the beauty of the park and have access to a charming small town made this adventure filled with tons to do. I hope that this guide inspires you to follow some of my itinerary so that you can enjoy Grand Teton NP as much as I did!
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