Activities at Grand Teton National Park

Activities at Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located immediately to the south of Yellowstone National Park, is one of the most popular parks in the country. Named for the Teton Mountains, which run down the park's center, Grand Teton is full of scenic vistas, wildlife and outdoor opportunities. Playing host to nearly 3 million visitors in its 480 square miles of terrain every year, Grand Teton National Park should leave no one disappointed.

Enjoy the Scenery

Sure, your parents told you not to, but it's hard not to stare in Grand Teton National Park. Grand Teton National Park has numerous opportunities for slack-jawed, pop-eyed staring. Check out the Grand Teton itself, a 13,000-foot mountain. Check out the Jenny Lake and Oxbow Overlooks. Drive around the periphery of Jackson Lake, stopping every couple of moments to lock eyes with its shimmering surface. Grand Teton National Park, with its numerous scenic overlooks and spectacular sights, is one of the best locations in the United States for scenery-gazing.

Hiking

Grand Teton National Park has over 200 miles of trails, ranging from easy day hikes to hardcore backpacking trips. One of the most popular hikes goes to Cascade Canyon from the shores of Jenny Lake. If you are looking for a challenge, not much can top the Teton Crest Trail, which runs 39 miles and encompasses all the park's major sights.

Colter Bay Visitor Center

This lodge, to be found on the shores of Lake Jackson, serves as an excellent jumping-off point for the rest of your stay in the park. Not only do a number of tours, both aquatic and terrestrial, begin at Colter Bay, but the lodge is also home to a Native American Art Museum.

Rafting

Alongside the serene natural beauty of the Grand Tetons is the savage ruggedness of some of its features. The Snake River is a perfect example. Running from Yellowstone to Washington state, the Snake River has a long stretch, perfect for rafting, that runs straight through Grand Teton National Park. With trips ranging from beginner to difficult, the Snake River is an excellent opportunity to check out the Teton's incredible wildlife while experiencing the challenges of savage nature.

Article Written By Louie Doverspike

Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.

Write for Trails.com
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