Truly awe-inspiring.
The Teton Range is one of the most magnificent mountain ranges on the North American continent, per NPS. Other ranges are longer and higher but the juxtaposition of the jagged Teton skyline and the flat golden valley at its base leave room for few true rivals.
Also featuring several alpine/glacial lakes and diverse wildlife, Grand Teton National Park is a must stop.
Highly recommenced going in Sept. The contrast between the dusted white peaks and prime autumn foliage of reds, yellows, and oranges makes for unbelievable views. The weather was also ideal for hiking, sunny and cool. Of course, the only exception being the one night we backpacked.
Hikes
So many good options, you really can't go wrong! You'll see signs everywhere to bring bear mace. They're serious, bring it!🐻
Rating: 🥾🥾🥾🥾
Park: Teton National Park
Hike Length: 7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 725 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
First hike of the trip and we saw a bear about 2 min in! We didn't make the entire loop around the lake but there was a solid cliff jumping rock on the east side of the lake.
Rating: 🥾🥾🥾🥾🥾
Park: Teton National Park
Hike Length: 3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 610 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Favorite day hike in the Tetons!
Rating: 🥾🥾🥾🥾
Park: Teton National Park
Hike Length: 6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 780 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Was a little cloudy/foggy in the morning but the waterfall and view from Inscription point were awesome. For more hikes around Jenny Lake see here.
Rating: 🥾🥾🥾
Park: Teton National Park
Hike Length: 2.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 85 ft
Difficulty: Very Easy
Plans were to kayak/canoe but they had closed up shop already for the season. We ended up doing a stroll around the lake shore trail, which was beautiful!
Treks
There are so many amazing looks treks in Tetons. One that we were eyeing but couldn't make happen with the permits were Lake Solitude.
Tips
One third of permits are available in advance online
Remaining permit go quick at the ranger stations so get there early
You can reserve one day in advance (can book Fri for Sat night)
The trick is to book a multi-night trek starting on Thur or Fri night
Rating: 🥾🥾🥾🥾
Park: Teton National Park
Hike Length: 6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 100 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Short, flat route to a private beach on a glacial lake! If only it wasn't the one day of bad weather for the trip: 20mph gusts, hail, and snow. Campsite itself was just off the path but still pretty private and stocked with a fire pit and bear box.
Food & Drinks
Teton Village is resort food. You're much better off heading to Jackson Hole:
Persephone Bakery - Could have eaten breakfast & lunch here everyday ☕️ 🍳 🥪
Thai Plate - Very solid back alley Thai food. With some flaming hot soup 🍜
Snake River Brewery - We drank more Roadhouse than Snake River but Snake Rive had a great outdoor setup and solid food 🍻
Trip: 9/20/20 - 9/28/20