Grand Teton National Park

The park centers on the Teton Range and the valley of Jackson Hole, with high peaks like Grand Teton (the park’s namesake), glacial lakes such as Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake, and the Snake River weaving through the valley. The dramatic topography is largely the result of fault‑block uplift and Pleistocene glaciation. (nps.gov, en.wikipedia.org) (nps.gov, wikipedia.org)

Most visitors fly into Jackson Hole (JAC) or drive via US‑26/89/191. The main visitor gateways and parking areas are along the Teton Park Road; expect heavy traffic and full lots in summer—arrive early. There are no timed‑entry reservations for general park access; entrance fees apply. (nps.gov, recreation.gov) (nps.gov, recreation.gov)

Stop at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center (Moose) or Jenny Lake Visitor Center for maps, ranger programs, current trail and wildlife info, and permit desks. Seasonal hours and openings change each year — consult the park’s Operating Hours page before travel. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

Park campgrounds (for example Jenny Lake Campground, Colter Bay Campground, Signal Mountain) are reservation‑only and book up quickly; book on Recreation.gov up to six months in advance. Maximum stay rules apply (shorter at Jenny Lake), and backcountry camping requires permits. (home.nps.gov, nps.gov) (nps.gov)

All overnight stays in the park backcountry require a backcountry camping permit. Peak‑season (May 1–Oct 31) permits can be reserved in advance on Recreation.gov; many permits are also available as walk‑ups at park permit offices. Fees and zone rules (including Garnet Canyon/Garnet camping rules for climbers) are posted by the park. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

With over 200–250 miles of trails, short loops (Jenny Lake loop, Hidden Falls/Inspiration Point) and long alpine routes (Lake Solitude, Hurricane Pass, Forks of Cascade Canyon) are available. Elevation, late snow on high trails, fast weather shifts, and bear country risks make planning, layers, and bear spray essential. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

Paddling and fishing are popular on Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, String Lake, and other waters; boat permits are required for all vessels (motorized and non‑motorized) and a Wyoming AIS decal is required. Note: the Jenny Lake boat launch may have seasonal changes or construction — check current notices. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

The Tetons are world‑class for mountaineering and technical rock routes. A climbing permit is not required for day climbs, but overnight climbs require a backcountry camping permit; Garnet Canyon permits and climb info are handled at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station in season. Conditions, crevasses, rockfall, and snow persist into summer—talk with climbing rangers before attempting technical routes. (nps.gov, mountainproject.com) (nps.gov, mountainproject.com)

Expect elk, moose, bison, pronghorn, black and grizzly bears, wolves, and many birds. Best wildlife viewing areas include Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, and the Snake River corridor. Always maintain distances (at least 100 yards for bears/wolves; 25 yards for other wildlife), use binoculars, and never feed animals. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

Classic photo spots include Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row (barns with the Tetons), Schwabacher Landing, and the Teton Park Road vistas. Sunrise and sunset light on the eastern valley often produce the iconic reflections in Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake. Plan for early starts and limited parking at top viewpoints. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

Mountain weather can change rapidly; altitude and snowpack affect trail safety. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, hike in groups, file plans with rangers or leave a trip plan, and check avalanche and mountain conditions before high‑country travel. For technical climbs bring ice axe, crampons, and climbing gear and check the Jenny Lake climbing desk for current hazards. (nps.gov) (nps.gov)

Grand Teton National Park packs dramatic peaks, clear lakes, and abundant wildlife into a visitor‑friendly area with world‑class hiking, climbing, boating, and photography. Do your planning early—reserve campsites or backcountry permits, check seasonal openings at visitor centers, and respect wildlife and safety guidance. For official, current alerts, permits, and fee details use the park’s pages and Recreation.gov. (nps.gov, recreation.gov) (nps.gov, recreation.gov)

Sources: National Park Service (Grand Teton pages: Plan Your Visit, Hiking, Camping, Backcountry, Boating, Climbing, Wildlife), Recreation.gov, MountainProject. (nps.gov, recreation.gov, mountainproject.com)