Getting around Grand Teton National Park is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options to explore the park’s scenic drives, hiking trails, and major attractions. Depending on your preferences, the time you have, and your comfort level with outdoor activities, here are some of the best ways to navigate the park:
1. Driving Your Own Car
- Best For: Visitors who prefer flexibility and want to explore at their own pace.
- Details: The most common and convenient way to get around Grand Teton National Park is by car. The park has a network of well-maintained roads, including the scenic Teton Park Road, Moose-Wilson Road, and Signal Mountain Road, which provide easy access to major attractions like Jenny Lake, Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, and Schwabacher’s Landing. You can also access remote areas and hiking trailheads by car.
- Parking: There are ample parking areas at popular sites like Jenny Lake, Colter Bay, and Signal Mountain, though these can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so it’s good to arrive early, especially for sunrise or sunset views.
2. Shuttle Services
- Best For: Visitors who prefer not to drive or those who want a more relaxing and eco-friendly option.
- Details: Grand Teton National Park offers shuttle services during the peak summer months. These shuttles provide transport between key locations in the park, such as Jenny Lake and Colter Bay, allowing visitors to access remote parts of the park without the need for a car. In addition, Grand Teton Lodge Company operates a shuttle service between its various lodges in the park.
- Availability: These shuttles are typically available from mid-June through September, but schedules can vary, so it's recommended to check with the park or your accommodations in advance.
3. Biking
- Best For: Active visitors who want to experience the park’s beauty while getting exercise.
- Details: Grand Teton is bike-friendly, with paved roads and bike paths available for visitors who wish to cycle. The Teton Park Road is a popular route for cyclists, offering great views of the mountains. Biking is also a great way to explore some of the park’s more secluded areas at a slower pace.
- Rentals: Several locations around the park, including Jackson Hole, Colter Bay Village, and Signal Mountain Lodge, offer bike rentals, so visitors can easily get a bike for a day of exploration.
- Safety: Be aware that the park has many winding roads with fast-moving traffic, so always use bike lanes where available, wear a helmet, and be cautious of vehicles.
4. Public Transit (Teton County Area)
- Best For: Visitors staying in nearby towns, such as Jackson, who want to avoid driving.
- Details: The START Bus (Sustainable Transportation) service operates in the Jackson area and provides transportation to Grand Teton National Park. It offers routes from Jackson to park entrances like Moose and South Entrance, providing a more sustainable way to reach the park from town. This service is particularly helpful for tourists staying in Jackson who do not want to rent a car.
- Cost: The START Bus is relatively affordable, and it’s an excellent option for those looking to travel within the area without the hassle of parking.
5. Hiking
- Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park.
- Details: Many of the park’s best experiences are on foot. Hiking is a wonderful way to get around and connect with the landscape. Trails like the Jenny Lake Loop, Cascade Canyon, and Taggart Lake are easily accessible and allow you to explore the park’s diverse terrain. Most trailheads are located along the park’s main roads, so driving to the starting points is necessary.
- Trailheads: Popular trailheads include Jenny Lake, String Lake, and Gros Ventre. Be sure to check trail conditions and bring sufficient water, snacks, and gear for the hike.
6. Rafting and Boating
- Best For: Visitors who want a unique way to see the park from a different perspective.
- Details: While not a primary method of getting around the park, rafting or kayaking on the Snake River is a fantastic way to explore parts of the park not accessible by car. Several companies offer guided rafting trips along the river, where you can float past stunning landscapes and spot wildlife such as moose, elk, and bald eagles.
- Rentals: If you’re interested in boating or kayaking, rentals are available at locations like String Lake and Colter Bay.
7. Horseback Riding
- Best For: Visitors looking for a scenic, traditional experience.
- Details: Horseback riding is available through guided tours in areas like Colter Bay and Jackson Hole. These tours typically take you on trails around the park, offering a unique perspective of the landscape and an enjoyable way to get around, especially in more remote areas.
8. Tours and Guided Services
- Best For: Visitors who want a deeper understanding of the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
- Details: Several companies in the Jackson area offer guided tours within the park. These include wildlife tours, photography tours, and even fly-fishing guides. While these tours are not free, they can be a great way to explore the park with an expert and learn more about its natural wonders.
In Summary:
Getting around Grand Teton National Park is easy and accessible through a variety of options, whether you prefer the freedom of driving your own vehicle, the convenience of shuttles, the exercise of biking, or the adventure of hiking and rafting. Each transportation option offers its own unique way to explore and experience the park, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferences and the time you have available.
