Grand Teton National Park
Written By: Sarah Reish
What we know today as Grand Teton National Park was very different 50 years ago - changes and adjustments were still being made to the iconic National Park. In 1929, the original park was created by congress in an effort to protect the Teton Range. Former President F. D. Roosevelt further protected the land when he created the Jackson Hole Nation Monument in 1943. More land was donated to the park in 1949 from John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Then, the land was all combined into the National Park in 1950. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Parkway was created connecting Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park in honor of his philanthropic commitment to National Parks.
Winter activities in Grand Teton National Park
A majority of the park roads close during the winter due to the winter conditions and snow fall, but this doesn’t mean activities in the park slow down. Outdoor activities seem to pick up in the area and include hiking, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, skate skiing, snowmobiling, and more. While in the park, we encountered many outdoors people enjoying all of these activities.
Accessing the Park
Getting to the areas where you can access the park is quite easy. For those unfamiliar with the area take Teton Park Road. You will need a park pass for entry. There are several trails and parking areas you can use during the winter months. The National Park Service does a fantastic job clearing the snow and creating space for parking and accessing winter trails.
The Teton Range
Iconic in every sense of the word. These massive peaks rise above the snow covered landscape and we could not stop photographing the Grand Tetons. While on our hike the silence was palpable as the snow absorbed sound, only hearing the occasional cross country skier as they passed us by. If you haven’t explored your national parks in the winter, without crowds, cars, and sound pollution - you need to make the effort to hike in and enjoy the amazing outdoor space.
The Lakes
The emerald and blue lakes are breathtaking, even in photographs you see of Grand Teton National Park, and are stunning sight to behold. Leigh and Jenny Lake are named after explorers Richard Leigh and his Shoshone wife Jenny. In 1872, the Hayden Expedition explored the area and name the lakes after the couple in thanks for the support Leigh and Jenny provided to their team. Learn more about the Leigh family and others who explored this area here.
Our Hike Into Grand Teton National Park
We headed into the park on a bright and sunny day that was just below freezing. We bundled up and carried in our camera and lenses, water, and bear spray, because bear were beginning to come out of hibernation. The day prior, the first bear print was documented at one of the lakes. Our hike was quite easy and incredibly beautiful. It took about 20 minutes before our jackets were unzipped as we made our way along the trail - there was actually several feet of snow pack on the road. We had meetings later that day, so were only able to enjoy a couple of hours of hiking, but we enjoyed every minute!
Hours: Grand Teton National Park is open 24/7 year round
Winter restroom facilities are open at several locations - Taggart Lake Trailhead had facilities which is where we were.
Backcountry camping is allowed, but campers must obtain the free camping permit.
Get the free Grand Teton National Park App. The national Park Services has amazing resources available for park visitors.
Stay safe in bear country - Read more about staying safe in Grand Tetons National Park here.
National Parks Week
April 17 - 25, 2021 is National Parks Week! Join us as we celebrate the national parks that are right here in Wyoming. Check in with our parks as they will be offering special programs and activities throughout the week. Follow the link to learn about the daily themes scheduled for this year’s week.
Hit the Road
Our parks won’t be fully open, but you can still access them. Be sure to post your favorite photos and adventures in our National Parks. Our social media campaigns will be joining and collaborating with Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks in celebrating our local parks during National Parks Week. Be sure to join us and tagging the parks @GrandTetonNPS, YellowstoneNPS and @LiveWYldMag. In your post use #LiveWYld and #NationalParkWeek
