Exploring Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is impressive as it is historic. Indeed, the grounds of the park have witnessed the first human activity as far back as 11,000 years. The first settlers were thought to have camped near Jackson Hole in the summer months and moved on in winter.
Some artifacts are still left behind as testament to human activity in the area. Since then, different men have explored the area of the park. It was not until 1929 that the national park has been established though but since then, it has been one of Wyoming’s best loved attractions.
Image from flickr
The park covers a land area of 1,254 sq km. Its more prominent features include lakes, sprawling valleys, rivers, and the Teton range. You can get there by car from Salt Lake City. It is usually a four to five-hour drive. Another route to take by care is through Denver, Colorado for a nine to ten-hour drive.
There are also shuttle services available in cities like Salt Lake City, Idaho Falls, and Pocatello to Jackson, the closest town to the park. If you prefer to fly, the nearest airports are Jackson Hole Airport, located inside Grand Teton itself, and Jackson, Wyoming Airport.
Image from pixabay
Image from pixabay
G. T. National Park offers a lot of outdoor activities for active travelers. You can go camping, hiking, biking, bird-watching, boating, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
Float and boat trips are increasingly popular by the Snake River and String Lake. Hiking trails also abound in any of the park’s nearby lakes and trail. Hikes along the Taggart Lake and the Cascade Canyon trail are worth it for its spectacular views.
Image from pixabay
Image from flickr
If you visit the park in the summer and hike along the trails, you will most likely spot wildlife which is another popular activity in the park. For people who find hiking difficult or those in groups that have limited time, enjoy the scenic drive along Scenic Mountain Road or Jenny Lake.
Image from flickr
For campers, there are six grounds to choose from: Colter Bay, Gros Ventre, Headwaters Campground and RV sites at Flagg Ranch, Jenny Lake, Lizard Creek, and Signal Mountain. Fees apply and they differ every year so be sure to check when in the camping grounds. No reservations are accepted but you can call and inquire on the fees ahead. If you prefer the off-beaten path, backcountry camping is available. Check with the Rangers on how to get a camping permit. Reservations are open for backcountry camping.
The best time to visit would be in the summer, but it would also bring in the crowds. Accommodation may also be priced higher because it is the peak season.
If you want to enjoy the park’s scenery with less people, you can come in the fall. You’re guaranteed to love the changing foliage. In winter, the park is still open but some places to stay and restaurants may close up for the season. The view is sure to astound though as the entire park becomes a winter oasis. While in spring, the wildlife migrates so that’s the spectacle to see. You can also come and enjoy the great temperature with minimal human traffic.
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( All images found in google image search and I added images source with the website name. These images are not mine. if there have any false details in this article , please accept my apologies )