The Ultimate Grand Teton Itinerary: 3-5 Days in Grand Teton National Park

This post is your ultimate itinerary for Grand Teton National Park. From where to camp and what trails to hike, to what to see + do in the area— I’ve shared all the crucial information and insider details for visiting this Grand Teton National Park.

When people think of Wyoming, they probably picture cowboys riding horseback. But the state is more than just honky tonks and livestock. Grand Teton National Park is an absolute gem of the West that calls northwestern Wyoming home, and travelers visiting the United States should not skip it! That’s why I crafted this customizable itinerary for Grand Teton National Park— so that you can make the most of a visit to the American West.

The pointed Teton mountain range cuts across the horizon of 310,000 acres of Indigenous land, resulting in breathtaking views in every direction. Established in 1929 as a U.S. National Park, Grand Teton is the 8th most visited National Park in the United States. Forested views give way to beautiful valleys, pristine lakes, and pointed trail summits. Hidden glacial lakes and backcountry hikes make Grand Teton National Park an absolute can’t-miss-stop on any U.S. travel itinerary, and this post will show you exactly why. Grand Teton National Park is a haven for wildlife, including moose, bears, and elk. Without question, we saw more wild animals (and even had a very close encounter with a bear) during our time in the Tetons than in any other National Park we’ve been to.

We loved Grand Teton so much, that we even eloped here in secret in October 2021. It’s safe to say, we’re fans of the wildlife, nearby Jackson Hole, and the incredible scenery that envelopes you in Grand Teton. This itinerary will help you fall equally head-over-heels with the national park’s underrated beauty.

getting to Grand Teton National Park ↴

Grand Teton National Park is just outside of Jackson, Wyoming, and stretches north towards Yellowstone National Park. You can definitely do both parks in one trip if you have enough time, but I wholeheartedly recommend Grand Teton over Yellowstone if you’re short on time. Fly into Jackson Hole Airport, which is conveniently located just 7 miles from Jackson and at the base of the Teton mountain range. The airport is actually getting a major facelift, so while it may look small, it’s beautiful and has a very sophisticated interior design. Flying into this small airport can be costly, however, and flight paths are limited. You can, alternatively, fly to the next closest regional airport in Idaho Falls, which is roughly 1.5 hours away.

Regardless of how you get to the general area, you will need a vehicle to drive through the National Park, get to your accommodation, and make it to Jackson if you are seeking food and/or groceries (that type of thing). Book a rental car in advance, especially if you plan on visiting during the peak season (summer).

best time to visit Grand Teton National Park ↴

Grand Teton transforms with every change of season. The foliage in the fall gives way to bright oranges and vivid yellows. The park is less crowded, but there are often road closures and inclement weather. In the winter, snow dusts the mountain peaks and the park becomes void of tourists. Animals begin to reclaim the park and the meadows turn lush and green again in the spring.

Spring | Fewer crowds, plant life blooms and baby animals can often be spotted, snow can still be seen on mountaintops
Summer | Major crowds, increase in accommodation costs, good weather, safe roads
Autumn | Foliage is stunning, fewer crowds, the potential for road closures and inclement weather
Winter | Beautiful snow, fewer crowds, roads can be dangerous, some businesses shut for the season

how many days to spend in Grand Teton ↴

Determining the ideal number of days to spend in Grand Teton National Park depends on your interests, available time, and desired level of exploration. I recommended spending at least three days in Grand Teton to fully experience its wonders. With multiple days, you can embark on scenic hikes, explore diverse ecosystems, engage in wildlife spotting, and immerse yourself in the park's serene ambiance.

If you have extra days, you can venture beyond the popular spots and discover lesser-known areas, ensuring a more comprehensive visit. You can add in a few of the harder, longer hikes in the area with additional time. Dedicating a few extra days also allows for flexibility in case of inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances, enabling you to make the most of your time in the park.

where to stay near Grand Teton National Park ↴

ANVIL HOTEL - JACKSON, WYOMING

I love details and impeccable design, making the Anvil Hotel an absolute dream. A team of artisans collaborated to create a modern American West hotel for travelers seeking a boutique experience in Jackson. No matter what suite you book, every room is adorned with a custom iron bed, handmade brass fixtures, and vintage textiles. The Anvil is so thoughtfully designed that it’s been nominated by Conde Nast as one of the Best Boutique Hotels of 2022. MOOSE CREEK RANCH - VICTOR, IDAHO

Our stay at Moose Creek Ranch was one Luke and I will never forget. The moment we pulled up the gravel drive of the ranch onto the property, we were treated like old friends. The ranch is across the state line in Idaho, but it’s not far from the park and it’s remarkably affordable. Its bagel buffet breakfast is precisely the fuel you need to grab before hitting the hiking trails or exploring the greater Teton area. We rented a rustic cabin that was massive— much more space than two people really need. Even though the cabin had a rustic aesthetic, it included all your modern amenities, including a fireplace, microwave, double vanity bathroom, and mini-fridge.

MOUNTAIN MODERN MOTEL - JACKSON, WYOMING

The Mountain Modern Motel is not your average motel. The property features 135 guestrooms designed to be an adventure hub for explorers in the Jackson area. With an on-site laundry facility, restaurant, and café, it truly makes a great basecamp. The slogan for Mountain Modern, “none of the fluff, all of the good stuff”, reflects the clean, sleek design of each room. But, just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful and inclusive of everything you could want from accommodation— coffee maker, air conditioning, mini-fridge, microwave, and ample storage for all your gear.

CALDERA HOUSE - TETON VILLAGE, WYOMING

Caldera House is known for both the number of weddings it hosts every summer and the luxury accommodation it provides travelers visiting Jackson. It is frequented by a long list of the who’s-who of Hollywood, including Kanye West, Sandra Bullock, Matthew McConaughey, and Brad Pitt. A boutique stay at Caldera House doesn’t come cheap, but with a client list filled with A-list celebrities, that’s what you’d expect. Its convenient location near the cable car station in Teton Village makes it perfect for a ski getaway. The rooms are immaculately designed, down to the tiles in the bathrooms surrounding the stand-alone bathtubs. Trust me when I say, if you have the money, you won’t regret catching your zzzs at Caldera.

Triangle X - Jackson, Wyoming

Triangle X is a Dude Ranch conveniently located between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. It is perfect for those who are looking to have a truly “Western” experience while in Wyoming. Cookouts, horseback riding, and fishing trips can all be arranged during your stay.

Jenny lake lodge

The Jenny Lake Lodge books out in the peak summer months because of its prime location. Jenny Lake Lodge is near a multitude of trailheads and isn’t far from the town of Jackson Hole. Cabins have their own bathrooms and the accommodation is classified as a AAA 4-Diamond resort, meaning it’s an upscale place to stay with all the right amenities.

Colter Bay Village

While technically not a lodge, Colter Bay Village is less luxurious than a hotel while being more catered than camping. Think camping with a nice mattress! The shower facilities here are really clean there is an area with tables in the laundry facility where you can hop on the WiFi, which is massively helpful since there is little to no signal around.

Jackson Lake Lodge

The rooms at this lodge are more hotel-like than those at Jenny Lake of Signal Mountain Lodge. There are cottages available if you are looking for a more private getaway.

Signal Mountain Lodge

We stayed near Signal Mountain Lodge on my birthday. We parked in the van at a beautiful campsite with a view of the lake. We dined at the gorgeous Signal Mountain Lodge restaurant that night and were treated to huckleberry ice cream as a “happy birthday” from the wait staff. Lodge accommodation includes cabins, bungalows, and beautiful lakefront views. The store near the lodge has your basic items, plus

We love using Booking.com to book the best places to stay around the world.

camping

There are seven campgrounds spread throughout the National Park. You can reserve a campsite through recreation.gov. There are options to tent camp or to stay in a camper van/RV. For free camping spots in your camper van or RV somewhere nearby, download and check out the iOverlander or Campendium apps.

best places for pictures in Grand Tetons

what to know before you go to Grand Teton National Park ↴

Here are some key responsible recreation bits to know before you pack your bags and hit the trails.

acknowledging Indigenous land

Grand Teton National Park sits on the rightful homeland of the Shoshone, Bannock, Blackfoot, Crow, Flathead, Gros Ventre, and Nez Perce People. Responsible travelers acknowledge the Indigenous People who were forcefully removed from these lands. Seek out Native-owned businesses while you travel through the area, and keep in mind that Native culture is not a "thing” of the past.” Native Peoples are very much a part of the present and future of the

pack in, pack out

The golden rule of outdoor recreation is simple: pack out what you pack in. Leave no trace of your visit— no snack wrappers, water bottles, or toilet paper left behind! This is for the welfare of the environment and natural wildlife.

geotagging in Grand Teton National Park

Social media and the Instagram photo movement have brought a bevy of conservation issues, not the least of which is geotagging. Geotagging refers to “tagging” a location on a social media post so that people know exactly where a photo was taken. Millions of tourists visit Grand Teton every year, which leads to a drastic environmental toll on delicate ecosystems, anxious wildlife, and natural resources. Avoid tagging exact locations, and opt for less specific markers when you do.

head out early

The Tetons are stunning during the early sunrise hours when you get alpenglow. In fact, there are specific places throughout the park where people gather specifically at sunrise to see these natural colors!

Be bear aware

Both black and grizzly bears call the Teton Mountains home. We saw quite a few during our time in the park, and while we were very bear-aware, we didn’t have bear spray for the first few days of our visit. Avoid this mistake and keep yourself safe by planning ahead and either renting or buying spray so you have it every minute you’re on the trails.

prepare for heat + elevation

The sun in the summer can be dangerous, especially as you will likely be hiking and exploring in the heat at high elevations. Bring more water than you think you need and extra sunscreen to reapply throughout the day. Adventures at altitude in the Tetons also require you to be extra hydrated!

give wildlife space

Animals should be given plenty of space. Even the least aggressive wildlife species you might encounter should get ample room so they don’t get nervous or feel threatened. The general rule is to stay approximately a school bus distance away from non-aggressive animals and two school buses away from larger animals, like moose or bears. If you’re keen to capture wildlife on camera, make sure you pack your zoom lens.

what to pack for Grand Teton National Park ↴

My packing list is not exhaustive, but it is a great starting point for those looking to

packing essentials

Parks Pass | In order to enter Grand Teton, you are going to need to purchase a Parks Pass. You can save yourself a lot of money, especially if you plan on visiting multiple national parks if you purchase an “America is Beautiful Annual National Parks Pass,” which gives you access to all U.S. National Parks for a year. 10% of the profits are donated to the National Parks Foundation to help with conservation efforts in the parks. You can purchase a pass online here.
Camera | You will not want to head to Teton without a camera. You will want photographic evidence of this National Park’s wildlife and natural beauty.
Down jacket | A down jacket that is lightweight and rolls up into your daypack is exactly what you need, especially as you hike further into the mountains.
Rain jacket | Rain isn’t super common in the summer month, however, the higher in elevation you go, the more unpredictable the weather can be. Come prepared with a rain jacket in your daypack and you’ll stay warm and dry no matter what the day brings.
Hiking socks | Come prepared and beat any potential blisters by packing thick, high-quality hiking socks if you plan on hitting the trails.
Hiking boots | Real hiking boots are essential when the trails are made up of loose rock and gravel. Many of Teton’s trails have uneven footing and steep inclines, so you’ll be glad you packed proper boots.
Reusable water bottle | Ditch yucky plastic water bottles for a reusable one.
Snacks + water | This is especially important if you plan on doing any of the long hikes I recommend in this post. Staying fueled up is imperative in getting your body up and back down the mountain trails. Same with staying hydrated. Friends don’t let friends turn into cacti. Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Sun protection | Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen should all be either on your or in your daypack. No matter what the weather conditions, you should at minimum protect your skin from damaging sun rays with SPF.

suggested 3-4 day itineraries for grand teton ↴

Day 1 – Jenny Lake, Cascade Canyon Trail, + Oxbow Bend

Start your trip to Grand Teton by visiting the park’s most popular landmark— Jenny Lake. Nestled at the base of the Tetons, Jenny Lake is the trailhead for many of the national park’s most popular hikes with the most scenic views. From Jenny Lake, you can hike up to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, or walk the entire perimeter of the lake.

Visitors who aren’t interested in hiking can instead take the Jenny Lake shuttle across the water. Jenny Lake is a beautiful place to have a picnic, but please make sure to pack out anything you pack in. During the summer months, the parking lot fills up early, and car lines get outrageously long. Come first thing in the morning!

Cascade Canyon Trail trailhead is found at Jenny Lake! This 14.8 mile roundtrip trail follows Cascade Creek and gives you a glimpse of what the Grand Teton backcountry looks like without having to go backpacking. You can shorten the trek and turn back to the start at any time. The trail is especially popular for moose and bears, so please be a responsible hiker and give all wildlife their space! Bear spray or bear bells are encouraged. If you do embark on this hike, you will be gaining elevation so it’s crucial you pack water, sunscreen, and snacks to keep you fueled and hydrated on the trek.

You’ll want to spend the evening on your first day enjoying the wildlife of the park. The best place inside the park to spot wildlife is Oxbow Bend. People regularly see bears, moose, otters, and pelicans. At dusk you’ll often see photographers in the area eager to snap a photo of the area’s many wild animals with Mount Moran in the background. Even if you are unlucky on the animal front, the sunsets from Oxbow are the stuff of legends!

Day 2 – sunrise at Schwabacher Landing, Snake River overlook, Mormon row, Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve

Day 2 in Grand Teton is all about the park’s most scenic spots and photography! Your first stop of the day is sunrise spent at Schwabacher Landing. Frequently the site of mountain elopements,

The second stop of the day is Mormon Row. The barns that sit against the backdrop of Teton mountains are the remnants of Mormon homesteaders who settled the areas in 1890s. The two most famous barns are the two side-by-side barns of John and Thomas Alma Moulton.

Finally, cap off day 2 with a drive to Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve. This is where I saw a majority of the wildlife during our 5-day adventure in Grand Teton National Park. Here, I had a close encounter with a black bear, saw a mother moose with her baby, and watched baby black bears eating berries from the trees. The Visitor’s Center here shares information about conservation efforts and the ecosystems that exist inside the preserve.

Day 3 – Delta Glacier Hike, String Lake, Signal Mountain overlook

On your third, and possibly final, day in Grand Teton National Park, kick the day off with a hike to Delta Glacier Hike. It’s a rigorous incredible 8-mile out-and-back hike with 2,300 feet gain in elevation. The physical effort is worth it though, because the glacial waters are incredibly blue and the cold water feels refreshing after the trek there. The hike will take up a good portion of your day, but it is absolutely worth it.

Spend the rest of the day enjoying a picnic or paddleboarding at one of the Teton’s scenic lakes. String Lake feeds into Leigh Lake, and both are shallow and clean enough for safe swimming! The surrounding mountains beautifully reflect in the water, which I recommend snapping postcard-worthy picture of to remember your time in Grand Teton. If your legs are up for it, you can do one of the area’s short, easy walks.

Signal Mountain Overlook is technically outside of the Grand Teton National Park boundary, but it’s a must-see. Signal Mountain looms at near 8,000 feet high. You can hike to the overlook, but it is a strenuous 7-mile out-and-back hike. Despite it being relatively exhausting, the hike’s summit reveals 360-degree views of Jackson Hole town and the Teton Mountain Range.

Day 4 (Optional) - Day in Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is a charming little town right on the edge of Grand Teton. If you have an extra day in the area, enjoy the various shops, dive bars, and world-class eateries that exist in Jackson.

11 things to do in Grand Teton National Park ↴

best hikes in Grand Teton

The best thing to do while you’re in Grand Teton is to take advantage of all the fantastic hiking! Steep summits and hidden lakes abound in Teton and you won’t want to miss any of them.

My favorite 🥾 hikes in Grand Teton are:

Delta Lake | incredible secret views at the top of this 8-mile out-and-back hike with 2300 feet gain in elevation
Phelps Lake | 4-mile loop around the lake
Cascade Canyon | major elevation gain here, starting at Jenny Lake’s west dock and going up to Inspiration Point, then on further into the Tetons for 10 miles
Hidden Falls | waterfall located near Jenny Lake
Lake Solitude | starts at Jenny Lake, but takes hikers 15 miles through Cascade Canyon and on towards Lake Solitude
Static Peak Divide | 16-mile day hike for advanced hikers
Jenny Lake Loop to Inspiration Point | 7.6-mile loop around Jenny Lake, add on a side hike to the top of Inspiration Point, can be combined with Hidden Falls hike

take a lake dip

Teton has some refreshing (and clean) lakes to dip into, which is especially rejuvenating post-hike. Swimming is permitted at Colter Bay (next to the picnic area) and Signal Mountain (next to the campground). Make sure the sun protection you’re wearing is safe for aquatic ecosystems!

Mormon Row

History buffs and photographers most definitely need to make a visit to Mormon Row a priority. This area is named after the followers of The Church of Latter-day Saints (LDS) who homesteaded on this land in the 1800s. Six of these homesteads remain and the standing buildings are highly picture-worthy. Rustic barns sit against the backdrop of the Teton Mountains with tall grass in the surrounding fields. You’ll likely see wedding photos from this area— it’s absolutely stunning.

wildlife in Grand Teton

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park provides a sanctuary for a variety of species, including majestic elk, graceful pronghorn, elusive wolves, black bears, and even the occasional sighting of the iconic grizzly bear. Moose are frequently spotted wading through the park's lakes and marshes, while bison graze in the open meadows. The park is also a prime habitat for numerous bird species, such as bald eagles, ospreys, and trumpeter swans. We’ve seen everything from black bears to moose roaming around Grand Teton and it never gets old. Photographers should make sure to bring zoom lenses for their cameras to capture the wildlife up close without infringing on the animals’ space.

star-gazing at Antelope Flats

The sky is full of stars in Wyoming! Grand Teton National Park is not only a daytime paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also offers a magical experience for stargazers. One of the best locations within the park for stargazing is Antelope Flats Road. With its vast open spaces, minimal light pollution, and unobstructed views of the night sky, Antelope Flats provides an ideal setting for a celestial spectacle. Antelope Flats Road offers an expansive and uninterrupted view of the night sky. As evening falls, the park's natural darkness envelops the landscape, providing an awe-inspiring canvas for stargazers.

Tips for stargazing at Antelope Flats:

Timing is crucial | Check the moon phase before planning your stargazing adventure. Ideally, aim for nights with a new moon or a crescent moon, as they provide darker skies and enhance the visibility of stars and other celestial objects.
Dress warm | Even during the warmer months, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly. Dress in warm layers, bring blankets, and don't forget to pack a thermos of hot cocoa or tea to keep yourself comfortable during your stargazing expedition.
Bring the right equipment | To enhance your stargazing experience, bring binoculars or a telescope if you have them. These tools can help you observe the intricate details of celestial bodies and uncover hidden gems in the night sky.

the 42-mile scenic drive

Scenic Park Loop Road in Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking route that showcases the park's unparalleled natural beauty. Stretching for approximately 42 miles, this iconic road winds its way through picturesque landscapes, offering panoramic views of the majestic Teton Range, pristine lakes, verdant meadows, and dense forests. As you drive along the Scenic Park Loop Road, you'll have the opportunity to stop at numerous pullouts and viewpoints that provide awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding scenery. Marvel at the reflection of the mountains on the tranquil waters of Jenny Lake, witness the wildlife grazing in the open meadows, and capture postcard-worthy photos at iconic spots such as Snake River Overlook.

take the Jenny Lake shuttle

Whether you hike the whole way around Jenny Lake or not (I highly recommend that you do), you should absolutely pay to ride the ferry across the water. The ferry operates from 10 AM to 4 PM in the less crowded months, but from June through August the shuttle runs from 7 AM until 7 PM and departs every 10 minutes.

rent a kayak or canoe

Prices vary, but for roughly USD $50 per day, you can cut across the pristine lakes in the area via kayak or canoe. I can’t think of a more refreshing way to spend a day than on the waters throughout the National Park. You can find rental companies through your lodging, or at a variety of places throughout Jackson town.

sunrise at Schwabacher Landing

Schwabacher Landing is a stunning spot that’s particularly scenic at sunrise. You’ll likely spot couples eloping in this serene setting. The mountains are set in the background, while water creates reflections in the foreground. A walk around Schwabacher Landing will have you grateful you get to enjoy that particular slab of our big blue planet. There is a parking area off the gravel entry road, and toilets are near the car park.

snap pictures at Oxbow Bend

This particular bend in the Snake River is beyond picturesque. It’s hard to articulate its beauty on a still evening or in the waking hours, when all is quiet except for wildlife. Bring your camera and a thermos full of coffee, and sit silently while you take in one of the most beautiful spots in Grand Teton.

stop by the Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve + Visitor Center

Located at the southern end of Grand Teton National Park, the Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve and Visitor Center offers a serene and immersive experience amidst the park's breathtaking landscapes. This 1,100-acre preserve was named after the Rockefeller family who donated the land in 2001. In 2008, a visitor center was built and recognized for its energy-efficient and environmentally friendly design.

There is free parking here, but it’s small and only accommodates a tiny number of vehicles. This is intentionally done to make the refuge feel more meditative and less crowded than Grand Teton National Park. The trails throughout the preserve are where we saw many bears, bison, and moose. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with nature.

As a total bonus, there are clean toilet facilities here. The Laurence S. Rockefeller Preserve is open from early June to early October, offering the best conditions for exploration.

where to eat + get groceries near Grand Teton National Park ↴

groceries + provisions

Albertson’s - free WiFi is great, Starbucks inside if you need a caffeine boost, and fabulous deli grab-and-go meals
Basecamp - “a modern spin on a gas station”, gourmet groceries, sommelier-selected wines, craft beers, and grab-and-go meals
Whole Foods - organic, health food store with deli options, a coffee shop, and a soup and sushi bar

Where to eat in Teton Village

Rations - at the base of Teton Pass
Old Yellowstone Garage - stone-fired pizza
Teton Thai - legit Thai food, try to make a booking during high season

where to eat + drink in Jackson

PSST…You can read all my favorite Jackson foodie recs here

Coelette | owned by the same couple as Persephone Bakery,
Persephone Bakery | 3 locations for fantastic food and coffee
Cowboy Coffee | grab-and-go breakfast and delicious coffee
Glorietta | the absolute friendliest staff, wildly delectable Italian food
Hatch | immaculate, upscale-ish Mexican food
Hand Fire Pizza | wood-fired pizza served in a former theater in the heart of Jackson