Mosey your way over to Wyoming for some of the most captivating mountain vistas in the United States. At Grand Teton National Park, tourists can expect days full of awe-inspiring nature explorations. Memorable landmarks like Oxbow Bend, Colter Bay, and more provide visitors with hours of outdoor entertainment. And while many of these places are worth visiting, guests may want to prioritize a few key regions to get the most out of a trip to the area.
Three hotspots will treat visitors to the best views of Grand Teton National Park. Below, you can peruse details on Schwabacher Landing, Jenny Lake, and the Teton Mountains. Plan your trip around the overlooks, trails, and other key points in these areas for an unforgettable experience.
Schwabacher Landing
Just minutes from the parking lot, Schwabacher Landing welcomes guests to the park with spectacular views. To reach this area, guests will hike roughly 350 yards (less than .2 miles) along a channel of the Snake River. Stop upon reaching a large beaver dam, where you can spot the animals during active hours around dawn and dusk.
Nature photographers and sightseeing tourists will enjoy some of the park’s most stunning landscapes at Schwabacher Landing. While summer and fall are popular seasons for seeing the park in full bloom, visitors who thrive in colder weather can marvel at the snow-covered Teton Mountains in winter.
Jenny Lake
Jenny Lake is one of Grand Teton National Park’s most visited spots for a reason. This gorgeous lake sits at the base of the Teton Range and serves as the “centerpiece” of the park. While here, stop at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center inside Harrison Crandall Studio. This 1920s building was renovated in 2019 and lets guests meet with park rangers and explore art’s role in National Park Service (NPS) history.
Several scenic hiking trails lead visitors to further adventures in the Jenny Lake region. If you want to wander through nature on a long hike, follow nearby trails like Lake Solitude and Hurricane Pass. For incredible photos, take an out-and-back hike on South Jenny Lake Loop Trail to reach Inspiration Point. South Jenny Lake Loop Trail can also take hikers to Hidden Falls, where snowmelt feeds into a majestic waterfall.
Want to spend even more time near Jenny Lake? Consider booking a stay at Jenny Lake Lodge. The cozy cabins will keep you close to the park’s best views.
The Teton Mountains
No trip to Grand Teton National Park is complete without exploring the Teton Range. After all, the park is named for these incredible mountains. You can’t miss this natural wonder, as the range rises above the Jackson Hole valley.
Mountaineers don’t need a permit to venture through the Teton Range. However, climbers will need a camping permit if they’re planning an overnight trip. Expect snow on the mountain until mid-July, and come prepared for surprise storms. The NPS recommends prospective climbers read books like “A Climber’s Guide to the Teton Range” and “Teton Classics” for further information on local climbing conditions.