Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Grand Teton National Park
Q:When is Grand Teton Park open?
A:The park is open year-round although many facilities, concessionaires and roads close for the winter season. The Moose Visitor Center is open for permits and information 364 days a year, closed on December 25. The outer highway 26/89/191 is open year-round within the park and east through Togwotee Pass to Dubois. The Teton Park Road is closed to vehicle access from the beginning of November through the end of April depending on snow conditions. During this period, the road is open to non-motorized recreation (skiing, snowshoeing, cycling, walking, rollerblading) depending on snow and ice conditions on the road surface.
Q:How much does it cost to enter Grand Teton National Park?
A:Your entrance fees help support visitor services, maintenance of trails, roads and visitor facilities, as well as many other projects that directly benefit visitors like you. Entrance fees are $30 per vehicle for seven days for access to Grand Teton National Park. Bikers and hikers can enter the park for $15 per person for seven days and $25 for motorcyclists. If you love visiting national parks, you can purchase a America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass for $80 for one year of access to most national parks throughout the nation.
Q:Can I bring my pet into the park?
A:To ensure that you and your pet enjoy a safe visit, follow all pet regulations while inside the park. Wildlife may be drawn to pets and their owners; pets can wander away and may never be found—the park is a wild place! These regulations are enforced to protect you, park resources and other visitors.
Pets are allowed inside Grand Teton National Park, but they must be restrained at all times and are not permitted on hiking trails, inside visitor centers or other facilities. A good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go: roads and road shoulders, campgrounds and picnic areas, parking lots, etc. Pets must be on a leash and under physical restraint. Pets are not permitted on any park trails or in the park backcountry. Pets are not considered pack animals.
Q:What do I do if I have an emergency in the park?
A:Call 911! There are public phones at the following locations (from south to north): Moose, Dornan’s, south Jenny Lake, Signal Mountain Lodge, Moran Entrance Station, Jackson Lake Lodge, Colter Bay Village, Leeks Marina and Flagg Ranch. Medical services are available at St. John’s Medical Center in Jackson at 625 E. Broadway Street and at the Grand Teton Medical Clinic at the Jackson Lake Lodge during the summer.
Q: Where can I find information about day hikes and backcountry camping?
A:Hiking information is available in person at park visitor centers and online by visiting the Hiking page. Stop by a visitor center to find out trail conditions, mileages and any closures that may be in place. Hiking maps can be purchased at visitor centers or directly from the Grand Teton Natural History Association; maps can also be purchased at concessionaire-operated gift stores and outdoor shops throughout the park.
Q: What wildlife can I see in the park?
A:Grand Teton National Park is world-renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities. Some of the most sought-after animals that can be found inside the park include: moose, black and grizzly bears, pronghorn, elk, bald eagles, gray wolves, coyotes and bison. Always stay a safe distance of at least 300 feet from large animals; wild animals are unpredictable and can cause personal injury or even death if not respected.
Q:How long is the Snake River?
A:Called the Mad River by early settlers, the Snake winds 120 miles through the valley and is Wyoming's largest river.
(Information provided by NPS at www.nps.gov/grte)
Q:What is the recommended stay duration?
A:Minimalist (3 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: 1 Day
Hiking/Exploring: 1 Day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 Day
Adventurist (5 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: 1 Day
Hiking/Exploring: 2 Days
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 2 Days
Notes: The scenery at Grand Teton National Park is stunning. You will certainly want to allow extra time for your scenic drive around the park to stop and enjoy the magnificent views for a while. Take the Teton Park Road from Moose Junction to Jenny Lake for excellent views of the Tetons. There are many scenic turnouts and short hiking/walking trails along the route. If you have more time continue further north to Signal Mountain and Jackson Lake. You should stop off at the Colter Bay area to see some of the historic cabins and and other structures that have been moved to the spot from their original locations across the Jackson Hole Valley. Speaking of Jackson, visiting the town of Jackson should definitely be part of your itinerary while you are in the area. The town gives the term 'Cowboy Chic' a whole new meaning! The central town square is something that deserves a visit, and there are many fun and unique shops in town that you will enjoy browsing. Adventurists will want to take a little more time to hike one of the many inspiring hiking trails in the area, it is impossible to hike with the majestic Teton Range as your backdrop and not have your soul uplifted and inspired. If you want a real treat, take a day to float the Snake River and do some fly-fishing! This valley is one of the most popular spots in the west for trout fly-fishing! Other activities include free ranger-led activities, wildlife walks, bicycle tours, campfire programs, boat cruises, natural history seminars, horseback riding, dog-sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and more!
