Last updated: February 22, 2024
Article
Top 10 Tips for visiting Grand Teton National Park
Are you planning to experience the stunning beauty of Grand Teton National Park? Millions of people from around the world visit the park every year. So, be sure to make a #GrandPlan and follow our top 10 tips for visiting Grand Teton.
Get ready to witness breathtaking views and wildlife, explore nature, experience the wonder of Grand Teton, and create unforgettable memories. Plan ahead, recreate responsibly, help preserve this landscape for generations to come, and become a steward for this iconic place. Grand Teton is waiting for you!
Before you arrive…
Make a #GrandPlan
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For opening dates for seasonally operated facilities and services in the Grand Teton, check Operating Hours & Seasons.
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Reservations are NOT required to enter Grand Teton National Park. Entrance fees are required and available for purchase in advance through Recreation.gov. Visit the park Fees & Passes webpage for more information.
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Reservations ARE required for lodging and all campgrounds in Grand Teton and are mostly booked for the peak season. Plan ahead and visit the park Camping webpage to reserve your night under the stars. Car camping or sleeping overnight in vehicles is not allowed in park pullouts, parking areas, picnic grounds, or any place other than a designated campground.
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For more planning tools, visit the park website and follow Grand Teton on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more helpful information.
Download the official NPS App before your visit. The app features downloadable information for all the national park sites in the country, including Grand Teton. This includes an interactive map, self-guided audio tours, and information to help make the most of your trip. The app is free and available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
When you’re here…
Be alert. Grizzly and black bears are active in Grand Teton, including in developed areas. Always stay 100 yards (the length of a football field) away from bears and wolves. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and keep it readily available. Be bear aware and learn more about recreating in bear country on the park Safety in Bear Country webpage.
Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Roadside wildlife viewing is popular, but please keep the road clear. Use pullouts or pull completely off the roadway with all four tires to the right of the white line. It is illegal to feed any wildlife—bears, ground squirrels, foxes, etc. To protect wildlife and visitors, the park occasionally closes key habitat areas to all travel. Check the park Temporary & Wildlife Closures webpage for the most current information.
Grand Teton is a wild place. National parks are not always the best place for your dog. Dogs are not allowed on trails, pathways, beaches, inside visitor centers, or in park waters. For more in-fur-mation about pets in the park, visit the park Pets webpage.
Parking at locations throughout the park can be difficult to find during peak hours. Visit the park before 9 am and after 4 pm to avoid the crowds. For more information, visit the park’s Parking webpage.
Obey posted speed limits and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. Wildlife is active near park roads. Be vigilant while driving. Slowing down could save a life. In high visitation areas such as Mormon Row, Taggart Lake, Jenny Lake, and Colter Bay, be alert for pedestrians and follow adjusted speed limits. Follow the nighttime speed limit of 45 mph on US HWY 89/191/26.
Campfires are limited to designated and installed fire rings in the park. Campfires should always be attended to and must be completely “dead out” and cold to the touch before leaving a site. Visit Tetonfires.com for current fire conditions and more fire safety information.
Dispose of trash properly and follow Leave No Trace Principles by packing out what you bring in. Recycling is available throughout the park. Check out the park Sustainability webpage. Visit Recreate Responsibly to learn additional tips on how to be a good steward of public lands.
Jackson Hole and Wyoming are full of places to explore. Make a side trip and learn more by visiting the park’s Nearby Attractions page. Explore Wyoming and discover museums, state parks, rodeos, national treasures, and more as you make your way across the Cowboy State.