So you’re in Jackson Hole and want to experience the great outdoors, but don’t have 12 hours to go on a tour of the southern loop of Yellowstone? Have no fear! Trust me, we’ve all been there. While Yellowstone is great, it’s not always in the cards.
Luckily, Grand Teton National Park is equally as beautiful and much closer to Jackson! Even luckier still, we have the ultimate local’s guide to GTNP right here. We cover everything, including what to bring, various departure times, must-see stops and Jackson Hole transportation options. Let’s begin!
What to Bring
Even if you’re only in the car for 4-5 hours instead of 12, there are still some road trip essentials for your Grand Teton National Park driving experience. Those include water bottles, snacks and sunglasses. More GTNP specific necessities are binoculars and a high-quality camera.
If you don’t have a wildlife oriented camera, we highly recommend renting one from Wyoming Camera Outfitters in town. That way you have professional-grade photos to cherish for life!
When to Leave
Most wildlife tend to come out in the morning and evening, while they often stay hidden midday. That’s why we recommend leaving either first thing in the morning or a couple of hours before sunset (depending on the time of year). However, everyone going on a full-day southern loop tour of Yellowstone will be clogging up the roads in the early morning so the evening is the best option!
Essential Stops: Antelope Flats
A hotbed of wildlife including moose and bison, not to mention, you guessed it, antelope!
Also home of the famous Mormon Row barn, perfect for instagram-worthy pics.
Glacier View Turnout
An easy stop that provides one of the most beautiful angles of the Grand Teton in all of its glory.
Snake River Overlook
Where Ansel Adams took, The Tetons and The Snake River (1942) from the ultimate vantage point to see the Snake River wind through the valley under the Tetons.
Lizard Creek
A beautiful spot to sit by the water and munch on whatever snacks you brought!
Mode of Transportation
Depending on your group size and budget there are various ways to drive through GTNP. If you have a rental car and are a small group then that is often the easiest option. However, if you are more people then the best group transportation in Jackson Hole is Double Black whatever your needs, but especially for a driving tour of Grand Teton National Park.
Our buses are equipped with luxury wraparound seating, built-in coolers and surround-sound speakers creating the optimal environment for all summer activities in Jackson Hole. Not to mention the massive windows so you can see as much wildlife as possible! Book Now!
