Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Grand Teton National Park is smaller, and in some ways more manageable, than its north-
erly neighbor. There are only 100 miles of paved road, all of which can be driven easily in
less than a day's time. With fewer accommodations than Yellowstone, Grand Teton lends
itself to easy day trips from Jackson Hole, but it is a compelling destination on its own.
Grand Teton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers, bikers, boaters, and in winter,
cross-country skiers will have no problem coming up with marvelous weeklong itineraries.
Still, for those on a time budget, you can get an excellent sampling of the park in two days,
but even if you are just driving through, there are a few places that should not be missed.
While summer is by far the busiest time in the park, spring and fall can be magnificent
with wildflowers, golden aspens, and more active wildlife.
Hiking
and
climbing
in the
Tetons is best done in summer and early fall, after the winter snow has melted and before it
starts flying again. Still, snow squalls and bad weather can surprise hikers any time of year,
so come prepared. Park rangers offer marvelous programs throughout the year that are an
excellent way to make the most of the time you have. In the fall, for example, drivers can
join ranger-led
wildlife caravans
from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center that
guide visitors to the best places to see wildlife that day.
Ranger-led hikes and eco-talks
are geared to the seasons and offer visitors a wonderful insiders' look at the park.
The National Park Service offers an excellent trip planning tool online (
www.nps.gov/
grte/planyourvisit
)
, or you can order a booklet by mail by calling 307/739-3600.
Visit the website of the
National Park Service
(
www.nps.gov/grte
)
to help plan your
trip to Grand Teton. In the section titled Plan Your Visit, you'll find answers to most
of your pressing questions. You can also read the most recent park news releases at
www.gtnpnews.blogspot.com
.
When you enter the park, you will receive a copy of the park
newspaper,
Grand Teton Guide,
which has a lot of useful information about park facilit-
ies, hours of operation, and programs and specific activities offered daily or weekly. If you
need additional information before you go, you can call the
visitors information line
(307/
739-3300, ext. 1) and
camping information line
(307/739-3603).
Single-entry entrance fees are $25 per vehicle, $12 per person for hikers or bicyclists,
and $20 per motorcycle for seven days in both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone
National Park.
The main concessionaire in the park is the
Grand Teton Lodging Company
(800/
628-9988,
www.gtlc.com
)
, which operates lodging, restaurants, tours, and activities. Their
