Passes
The basic pass for Grand Teton National Park is a single-entry pass that covers one vehicle and is good for a week. In 2009, this was priced at $25. From mid-December to April 30, there is a one-day pass available, which was $5 in 2009. Finally, there is a joint Yellowstone-Grand Teton pass that covers both parks and lasts for one year. In 2009, the rate was $50.
P.O. Drawer 170
Moose, Wyoming 83012
(307) 739-3300
www.nps.gov/grte
Backcountry Camping
Backcountry camping at Grand Teton is popular, and it is advised to file for a permit far in advance. The park's backcountry is divided into zones, each with a set limit for the number of campers permitted, and one-third of that quota is reservable. The remainder is dished out on a first-come, first-served basis the day before a given hike into the backcountry would begin. Reservations can be made between Jan. 1 and May 15, with a 2009 fee of $25.
Regular Camping
The park also has a handful of road-accessed campgrounds: Colter Bay, Flagg Ranch, Gros Ventre, Jenny Lake, Lizard Creek and Signal Mountain. As with backcountry camping, advance reservations are strongly advised. Colter Bay and Flagg Ranch have more than 100 sites each and come with a laundry shack, hot showers and RV hook-ups. The others are much smaller, meant for tent campers, and have only primitive facilities.
Mountaineering
A major draw for the park is Grand Teton and its fellow mountains, which are popular with climbers. Permits are not required for climbing the mountains, but any attempt to scale those peaks means a multi-night backcountry trip, so a backcountry camping permit is necessary.
Water Activities
During warm summer months, trout fishing in the park is popular. Trout and other fish can be caught in the Snake River, the parks three major lakes and countless creeks, forks and streams. Whitewater rafting down the Snake River is also a magnet for those looking for some exciting adventure.
Hiking and Wildlife
A moose in Grand Teton park.
Grand Teton National Park covers a vast area, and the day-hiking trails alone cover nearly 200 miles. Backcountry hiking extends the trail network even farther. Either style of hiking can bring one into direct contact with the park's numerous examples of wildlife, such as moose, coyotes, wolves, black and grizzly bears, bald eagles, swans, bison, elk and deer.
Winter Activities
The fun in Grand Teton park does not come to an end with the coming of winter. Snowfall brings with it opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wintertime in the park exposes a whole different facet of the terrain and wildlife of the Grand Teton area. Colter Bay, Flagg Ranch, Teton Park Road and Moose Road all grant access to an extensive network of approved routes for these sports.
