Grand Teton National Park has something for everyone, with its snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and abundant wildlife. Just a few hours' drive south of Yellowstone National Park and close to the cozy community of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, it is a popular destination for nature lovers year-round. Skiing, sleigh-rides and viewing the thousands of elk are some winter-weather activities, while warmth opens up hiking and biking trails as well as the lakes for water sports. Many visitors choose to camp to be closer to nature and outdoor activity opportunities.
Things to Know Before You Go
Grand Teton National Park gets plenty of summer visitors, despite its remote location, thanks to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Since campgrounds generally do not take reservations, it's best to arrive early to secure a spot at the most popular sites, like Jenny Lake. Groups, however, should reserve in advance. Jenny Lake only allows tents, but the other four in the park can fit RVs and campers. Due to the harsh winters, camping is generally only available from May to September, though some campgrounds open or close a little earlier or later. Visitors should choose their campground based on their interests. Some campgrounds have more hiking and biking opportunities, while others are closer to bodies of water for water activities.
Outdoor Fitness
There are many activities for the fitness-minded visitor. Grand Teton has miles of hiking trails that range from short, easy hikes, to more strenuous over-night treks. Biking is also popular, and the park's first multi-use path, welcoming bikers, opened in 2009. More experienced visitors can climb Grand Teton itself, the tallest of the park's mountains at more than 13,000 feet. Kayaking, canoeing, boating and fishing are also available in the park's lakes.
Signal Mountain Campground
Signal Mountain Campground is centrally located in the park. Hiking among the spruce and fir trees often provides lake views and hilltops from which to watch the sunset behind the mountains. The adjoining lodge and camp store are a good place for campers to stock up on supplies and splurge on a meal or a drink. A marina also gives campers access to boating and other water sports opportunities.
Colter Bay
This campground is quite close to Jackson Lake, so visitors can easily access the water. It also has a visitor center with interpretive films and exhibits. Ranger-guided walks and a self-guided nature trail through the Lake area leave from the center as well. It has a camp store and restaurant for those that want to take a break from roughing it after a long day out on the water or on the trail.
Outside the Park
Flagg Ranch Campground is just 5 miles north of the Grand Teton entrance and therefore is often counted among the park's campgrounds by many guides, including the National Park Service. This campground takes reservations, which are recommended. The surrounding spruce forest make it a good location for hikers, as well as those that plan to do most of their activities in the northern part of the park. The closest lake for water sports is Jackson Lake.
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