Grand Teton National Park: It’s More Than Just A Drive Through On The Way To Yellowstone
Many travelers make the same mistake — they zip through Grand Teton National Park on their way to Yellowstone, treating it like the scenic appetizer before the “main course.” But if you rush through this Wyoming gem, you’ll miss one of the most breathtaking and peaceful corners of the American West. The Tetons aren’t just a backdrop — they’re an experience.
On a recent trip to visit Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, my husband and I decided to stay a few nights in Grand Teton NP since we were flying into the Jackson Hole airport as the starting point of a three-week ‘QUEST OUT WEST’.
Jackson Lake Lodge
We stayed at Jackson Lake Lodge in Moran, Wyoming, located inside the Park and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2003. This option gave us the opportunity to combine nature with comfort in a non-frenzied atmosphere. The property has a few decent restaurants, a great coffee bar for your morning start, and drinks on a patio in the late afternoon with a killer view (the northern Teton range and the wet Willow Flats area)--all in a relaxing environment.
We stayed in one of the hotel’s cabins located a short walk from the main building. Truthfully, the room was pretty basic and could have used a few updates. However, staying on hotel property was a win. Location, location, location.
Why Stay a Few Days?
“Driving through Grand Tetons National Park on your way to Yellowstone just gives you snapshots. Staying a few days gives you stories.”
Take a Hike
The park has scenic trails that even a novice hiker can handle. A short hike like the Jenny Lake Loop leads to this glacial lake framed by towering peaks. For something more immersive, take the boat shuttle across Jenny Lake and hike up to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point—like I thought I did on our first full day in Grand Teton National Park.
For a little context (and in my defense), Inspiration Point was my first hike since hip replacement surgery five months earlier, and the altitude at Jenny Lake is about 7,000 feet (Inspiration Point is 7,200-7,300) whereas my home town of Boston is less than 50 feet. Keep these facts in mind when I tell you I was huffing and puffing a bit on this trail even though it was classified as easy to moderate.
When we reached a flat rock surface with a beautiful view of Jenny Lake, I cried, ‘I made it to Inspiration Point!’ It was very dramatic. My husband congratulated me and after a few photos and moments enjoying the view, we headed back down the trail.
It wasn’t until we were at the boat launch waiting for a ride back to the main entrance that he told me, ‘You do realize that you didn’t really go all the way to Inspiration Point.’ What?! He said he didn’t tell me out of concern that I was pushing myself too much that day given the altitude change and a new hip.
Inspiration Point Trail in Google Maps. What I thought was the end of the trail…was not.
Wildlife Watching is Often Best at Dawn and Dusk
Spend a night (or two) in or near the park, and you’ll see it come alive. You might see elk grazing in meadows, moose wading through ponds, and I’m told, sometimes grizzly bears along Signal Mountain Road. Early morning light and quiet trails make these encounters even more special. At dawn, the low-hanging mist (that can last hours) can be especially magical but it does make wildlife more difficult to see.
With our coffee in hand one morning, we listened to a coyote’s call in the wilderness with the backdrop of the Tetons in the mist.
Experience the Peaceful Side of the West
While Yellowstone can be crowded and chaotic, Grand Teton still offers moments of solitude. You can actually hear the wind in the aspens, see stars at night that stretch forever, and feel what the West must have been like before the crowds arrived.
Take In the Snake River
The Snake River offers the perfect mix of adventure and serenity. You can book a guided float, or rent a kayak for a calm paddle. Or, just stand near its bank and see the reflections of the Tetons on the water while you listen to the sounds of nature around you. Create an unforgettable experience out of something simple.
Explore Nearby Jackson Hole
Although busy, the town of Jackson can add another layer to your visit — think Western boutiques, art galleries, live music, and cozy mountain lodges.
See the famous antler arches in the Town Square, or ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram for 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley, and surrounding mountain ranges.
Many people stay in the town of Jackson. Just keep in mind that it’s very busy year-round because of the National Park and the three ski resorts in Jackson Hole Valley.
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall is ideal. June and July bring wildflowers and full rivers; September (when we visited) offers golden aspens and migrating wildlife. Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing and quiet scenic drives. Our preference was to stay outside of town but I can see the draw it has particularly when it comes to choices of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
The Bottom Line
Yellowstone may be the star of the show, but Grand Teton National Park is the soul. Take at least two to three days — slow down, hike a little, and watch the sun set behind those jagged peaks. You’ll leave with memories of a place that feels both wild and grounding, peaceful and powerful.
