Are you looking for a perfect Grand Teton National Park itinerary? Grand Teton National Park is a true gem of Wyoming, known for its jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience its magic again, two days are enough to cover its highlights if you plan smartly.
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2 Days Grand Teton National Park Itinerary – Grand Teton Scenic Drive
This Grand Teton Itinerary 2 Days guide will help you discover the best places to visit, must-do activities, scenic drives, and practical tips to make your trip memorable.
Why to Plan Grand Teton National Park Itinerary
Grand Teton National Park is home to some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the United States. With the majestic Teton Range rising dramatically above Jackson Hole Valley, crystal-clear lakes like Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake, and endless wildlife viewing opportunities, it is an adventurer’s paradise.
Its proximity to Yellowstone National Park makes it a perfect addition to a larger Wyoming or road trip adventure.
Spending two days here allows you to experience the park’s highlights without feeling rushed. From hiking iconic trails to enjoying a Grand Teton Scenic Drive, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Iconic Sights, Lakes, and Scenic Views
Your first day will focus on the park’s southern and central parts, including some of the most famous landmarks and easily accessible hikes.
Things to do on Day 1 of Grand Teton Itinerary
Start your day early at Jenny Lake, one of the park’s iconic spots. You can take the scenic boat shuttle across the lake or hike around it to reach Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
Jenny Lake and Hidden Falls
Jenny Lake offers jaw-dropping views of the Tetons mirrored in its crystal waters. Hidden Falls is a beautiful 100-foot cascading waterfall, and Inspiration Point provides panoramic vistas of the valley and lake.
Distance & route: From the South Entrance or Jackson, drive 20 miles via US-191/US-89 to reach the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
Time needed: 3-4 hours, depending on whether you hike or take the boat shuttle.
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Moose-Wilson Road Scenic Drive
After exploring Jenny Lake, take the Moose-Wilson Road, a scenic byway renowned for wildlife sightings such as moose, black bears, and bald eagles. This road offers a quiet, intimate look at the park’s wetlands and forests, away from the crowds.
Distance & route: 8 miles between Moose Junction and Teton Village. The road is narrow, so drive slowly.
Time needed: 1 hour with stops for wildlife spotting.
Mormon Row Historic District
Head north to the Mormon Row Historic District to see the famous TA Moulton Barn and other preserved homesteads.
These historic barns set against the Teton Range make for some of the most photographed scenes in Wyoming.
Distance & route: 10 minutes north of Moose Junction on Antelope Flats Road.
Time needed: 30-45 minutes for photos and exploration.
Oxbow Bend Overlook
End your day at Oxbow Bend, one of the most iconic viewpoints in Grand Teton National Park, especially at sunset. The reflection of Mount Moran on the Snake River creates a postcard-perfect scene.
Distance & route: 25 minutes north of Jenny Lake along US-191.
Time needed: 30 minutes to an hour, perfect for golden hour photography.
Overnight Stay Recommendations
For mid-budget options, staying in Jackson or near Moran is ideal.
- Jackson Lake Lodge – Offers stunning mountain views and comfortable rooms.
- Elk Refuge Inn (Jackson) – Close to the south entrance.
- Cowboy Village Resort (Jackson) – Cozy cabins and excellent amenities.
If you prefer to stay inside the park, book early as lodging fills quickly.
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Day 2: Northern Grand Teton Highlights and Adventure
Your second day is perfect for exploring the park’s northern part and enjoying outdoor activities like rafting or hiking.
Things to Do on Day 2 of Grand Teton Itinerary
Schwabacher Landing Sunrise
Start your day early by catching the sunrise at Schwabacher Landing. The calm waters here create a stunning reflection of the Tetons, making it one of the best sunrise spots in the park.
Distance & route: 5 miles north of Moose Junction on US-191.
Time needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Signal Mountain Summit Road
Next, drive up Signal Mountain Summit Road for panoramic views of Jackson Hole, Jackson Lake, and the Teton Range. It’s one of the few places to drive up to a high elevation for sweeping vistas without a strenuous hike.
Distance & route: 5 miles round trip from Jackson Lake Junction.
Time needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Jackson Lake Cruise or Kayaking
Spend the late morning exploring Jackson Lake. You can take a scenic boat cruise or rent a kayak to paddle around.
The lake is surrounded by dramatic peaks, offering a peaceful and unique perspective of the Tetons.
Distance & route: Boats depart from Colter Bay Marina.
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours.
Grand Teton National Park Scenic Drive Loop
Complete the Grand Teton Scenic Drive Loop in the afternoon, a 42-mile route connecting Moose Junction, Jenny Lake, and Jackson Lake Junction. This drive includes the park’s best overlooks like Glacier View, Snake River Overlook, and Mount Moran Turnout.
Distance & route: 42 miles total, allow 2-3 hours with stops.
Rafting on the Snake River
End your day with an adventurous rafting trip on the Snake River, which is available as a scenic float or whitewater experience.
It’s a thrilling way to experience the park from a different perspective while spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.
Time needed: 2-3 hours, depending on the tour chosen.
Overnight Stay for Day 2
If staying another night or heading towards Yellowstone, consider staying near Moran or Colter Bay.
- Colter Bay Village – Wooden & Rustic cabins close to Jackson Lake.
- Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch – Conveniently located between Grand Teton and Yellowstone.
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How to Reach Grand Teton National Park
Getting to Grand Teton is straightforward, and the park is well-connected by road and air.
Nearest Big City
The closest major town is Jackson, Wyoming, which serves as the gateway to Grand Teton National Park. Jackson has a regional airport and plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tour services, making it a convenient base.
- Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): The only airport located inside a national park in the United States. It offers direct flights from cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, Dallas, and Chicago.
- Distance from Jackson to South Entrance: About 5 miles or 10 minutes by car.
If you’re flying in from a far-off location, you can also consider flying into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), about 275 miles or 5 hours away, and then driving to the park for a scenic road trip.
Best Entrances to Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton has several entrances, and the one you choose will depend on your route:
- Moose Entrance (South Entrance): Closest to Jackson and the most popular for first-time visitors. Ideal if you plan to visit Jenny Lake, Moose-Wilson Road, and Mormon Row.
- Moran Entrance: Convenient for those coming from Yellowstone or heading towards the northern part of Grand Teton, including Oxbow Bend and Jackson Lake.
- Granite Canyon Entrance: Provides access to the park’s southernmost area and Moose-Wilson Road. Great for wildlife viewing.
- Flagg Ranch Entrance: Best if you are traveling directly from Yellowstone National Park into Grand Teton.
Most visitors prefer entering via the Moose Entrance because of its proximity to Jackson and direct access to the scenic loop.
Distance & Route Between Major Attractions – Grand Teton Scenic Drive
Here’s a quick guide to help plan driving times:
- Jackson – Jenny Lake Visitor Center – 20 miles – 30 minutes
- Jenny Lake – Oxbow Bend – 25 miles – 40 minutes
- Oxbow Bend – Colter Bay Marina – 8 miles – 15 minutes
- Moose Junction – Mormon Row – 5 miles – 10 minutes
- Moran Junction – Signal Mountain Summit Road – 3 miles – 10 minutes
Recommended Tours to Book – Grand Teton Scenic Drive
Booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially in peak season.
- Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle: A convenient way to cross the lake quickly to reach Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
- Jackson Lake Scenic Cruise: Available through Colter Bay Marina.
- Snake River Rafting Tours: Options include scenic floats or whitewater rafting.
- Guided Wildlife Safari: Great for spotting bears, moose, elk, and more with an expert guide.
Helpful Tips for Your Grand Teton National Park Itinerary
- Start early: Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, and parking lots fill up quickly.
- Pack layers: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly in the morning and evening.
- Bring binoculars: Essential for spotting wildlife like moose, bears, and bald eagles.
- Stay hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially if hiking.
- Park pass: $35 per vehicle for 7 days, or use the America the Beautiful annual pass.
- Bear safety: Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Reservations: Book lodging and tours several months in advance during peak season (June-August).
FAQs About Visiting Grand Teton National Park Scenic Drive
1. Can you do Grand Teton National Park in 2 days?
Yes! Two days are perfect to cover the park’s highlights, including Jenny Lake, Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, and the scenic loop drive.
2. Is Grand Teton Scenic Drive worth it?
Absolutely. The Grand Teton National Park Scenic Drive is one of the best ways to quickly see the park’s landscapes and major viewpoints.
3. When is the best time to visit?
Late May to early October is ideal. July and August have the warmest weather but also the largest crowds.
4. Do I need a reservation to enter the park?
No reservations are required to enter, but you should book lodging and tours well ahead of time.
5. Can you see wildlife in two days?
Yes. Moose, elk, bears, and bison are commonly seen, especially along Moose-Wilson Road and Oxbow Bend.
A Grand Teton Itinerary 2 Days offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. From hiking at Jenny Lake to experiencing the serene beauty of Jackson Lake and the Grand Teton Scenic Drive, every moment in the park will leave you awe-inspired. With careful planning and early reservations, you’ll have an unforgettable Wyoming adventure surrounded by some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro
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