Insider Tips: Grand Teton National Park

Is Grand Teton National Park on your agenda this summer? (It absolutely should be!) But we understand that it can be a tad overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting the Tetons. 

Here are a few insider tips to making the most of your time in this iconic national park!

Delectable Dishes in Grand Teton National Park

While there aren’t tons of places to grab a meal in Grand Teton National Park, there are some spots absolutely worth the stop. First up is the stunning Blue Heron Lounge inside the historic Jackson Lake Lodge. (Don’t let the name fool you, it’s absolutely a family-friendly eatery.) Sip on delectable drinks and enjoy light fare that’s almost as stunning as the panoramic view. 

Image courtesy of Grand Teton Lodge Company

The crown jewel of luxury dining in Grand Teton National Park is found at the Jenny Lake Dining Room. “The Jenny Lake Lodge culinary team locally sources high-quality sustainable ingredients, with many coming from the surrounding Jackson Hole area,” explains their team. “Their mouthwatering creations, combined with an award-winning wine list, results in a dining experience that delights even the most refined palates.” Be sure to get reservations if you want to enjoy this exceptional spot!

For the peak laid-back dining in Grand Teton, head towards Leeks Marina & Pizzeria. It’s a bit of a hole-in-the-wall (at least as far as park dining goes), but worth the stop. Order up a local microbrew, settle into the deck, take in views of the lake and devour a slice… or a few. 

Remember that Wildlife Is… Well… Wild

You may think it will make a cute snap for Insta to get that chipmunk to eat out of your hand, but please resist. No matter whether the critter is as tiny as a chickadee or as hefty as a bison, these animals are not tame. Not only could they injure you, if they become accustomed to human food, they aren’t likely to survive.

When it comes to taking photos or observing wildlife, keep a responsible distance. The rule of thumb is to give bears, wolves, and large nesting birds (like eagles) 100 yards of space. (Rusty on what that might look like? 100 yards is equal to the height of Big Ben or the Statue of Liberty, a football field, or just over the wingspan of a 747.) Give all other animals — deer, elk, bison, moose included — at least 25 yards. (About the length of a bowling lane, twice the length of a telephone pole, a full-size school bus, or an Olympic swimming pool, if that’s helpful.)

Image courtesy of the National Park Service/Grand Teton National Park

Finally, bear safety is no joke! Carry bear spray and travel in groups when hiking. Secure any kind of attractants, whether that’s at your campsite or lakeside picnic. Fed bears (sadly) become dead bears all too often. 

Looking for more tips to help be as wildlife-friendly as possible on your visit to Jackson Hole? Check out these brilliant suggestions from Visit Jackson Hole.  

Hiking… and beyond!

Hiking is on the top of many peoples’ list when it comes to planning a visit to Grand Teton National Park. Understandably so! There are plenty of unforgettable hikes in the Tetons for hikers of all ability levels. If you’re not sure which one might be the best for your group, we suggest a visit to the Craig Thomas Visitor Center in Moose. Not only are there fascinating exhibits about the area, but there are rangers on hand to give you personalized advice on what might be the best match for your skills. 

Photo by Elliot McGucken

One of the most spectacular views of the Teton Range is from the lakes beneath their towering peaks. Enjoy the unbeatable view from Jenny Lake at your own pace with a rental kayak or canoe from Jenny Lake Boating. Pack a picnic, explore the lake, take in the breathtaking perspective, and a refreshing dip in the cool water… it’s a day you’ll remember forever!

If you’d prefer someone else at the helm, no problem. Consider a scenic float on the Snake River or give fly-fishing a try with a guided trip! It’s a customized way to spend the day on the river, taking in the best that Grand Teton National Park has to offer. You’re likely to see wildlife, impressive views of the mountains, and enjoy the unsurpassed peace of a day on the water. Haven’t fly-fished before? No problem! Jackson Hole is the perfect place to learn. 

Image courtesy of the National Park Service/Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is, without doubt, among the crown jewels of the American national park system. No matter your age, interest or how many times you’ve stepped within its borders, you’re destined to find something absolutely special and inspiring. We sure do!