Grand Teton is one of those places where the mountains appear all at once: a range of jagged peaks rising almost without foothills from a flat valley, with lakes at their base reflecting the snowy summits. It is in northwestern Wyoming, about 16 kilometers (10 miles) south of Yellowstone, according to Wikipedia, which is why almost everyone visits both parks on the same trip. Its highest peak, the Grand Teton, stands 4,199 meters (13,775 feet) tall, and the Jackson Hole valley below it is one of the best places in the country to see moose and bison. This guide explains how to visit Grand Teton: what entry costs with the surcharge for international visitors, what to see, the wildlife, how to get there, when to go and how to combine it with Yellowstone. Last checked November 6, 2026.
Grand Teton in brief
- Where it is. In Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone, next to the town of Jackson.
- Entrance. $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle and $20 per person, valid for 7 days, according to the NPS.
- International visitors. A $100 surcharge per person aged 16 or older, on top of the entrance fee.
- With Yellowstone. According to the NPS, each park charges its own entrance fee.
How much does it cost to enter Grand Teton?
According to the National Park Service, entry costs $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle and $20 per person on foot or by bike, and it is valid for seven days. Grand Teton is one of the eleven parks that since 2026 have charged each nonresident visitor aged 16 or older a $100 surcharge on top of the regular fee. And note: according to the NPS, people traveling between Grand Teton and Yellowstone must pay each park's entrance fee separately, and Yellowstone charges the surcharge too.
So for an international visitor doing both parks, the bill climbs fast. A car with two foreign adults would pay $35 for entry and $200 in surcharges at Grand Teton, plus the same, or close to it, at Yellowstone. In that case the $250 nonresident annual pass, which waives the surcharge and covers the vehicle, is much cheaper. We explain it in detail in US national parks for international visitors.
What to see in Grand Teton
- Jenny Lake. A lake at the foot of the mountains, with a boat that crosses it and trails to waterfalls and viewpoints. It's the park's busiest area.
- Mormon Row. Old wooden barns built by early settlers, with the mountains behind them, one of the most famous photos in the American West. At sunrise, the light on the peaks is perfect.
- The Snake River. It winds through the valley and has classic overlooks with the range in the background. There are also float trips on calm stretches.
- Jackson Lake. The park's largest lake, with beaches, marinas and views of the peaks.
- Signal Mountain. A road that climbs to a viewpoint with a panoramic view of the valley.
Hiking in Grand Teton
The most popular hike starts at Jenny Lake: you cross the lake by boat and from the far side climb to Hidden Falls, a waterfall tucked into the forest, and a bit higher to Inspiration Point, with a view over the lake and the valley. If you'd rather skip the boat, a trail follows the shore, though it adds quite a bit of distance. For something longer, the canyons that cut into the range have full-day routes to mountain lakes. The best-known trails get crowded in July and August, and the Jenny Lake parking lot is usually full by mid-morning: arrive early. Bring water, warm layers and food, and ask at the visitor center about trail conditions and any bear warnings.
Grand Teton with kids
It's a very easy park for families. The Jenny Lake boat is already an adventure for little ones, and the walk to Hidden Falls is short from the dock. The beaches on Jackson Lake are good for a picnic and for dipping your feet, although the water is cold all year. Looking for moose and bison from the car at dusk is often what kids remember most. According to the NPS, the park received about 3.8 million visits in 2025, so in summer it pays to plan your stops ahead.
Wildlife: where to see moose, bison and bears
According to Wikipedia, the park is home to moose, bison and bears, as well as elk, pronghorn and many birds. Moose are usually seen in wet areas along rivers and ponds at dawn and dusk; bison, in the valley's open grasslands. Always keep your distance: the NPS recommends staying well away from bears and wolves, and from bison and moose too, which can be dangerous. Bring binoculars and, if you're hiking, bear spray.
How to get to Grand Teton
An unusual advantage: according to Wikipedia, Jackson Hole Airport is inside the park, with flights from several US cities, especially in peak season. From abroad, most travelers connect through Denver, Salt Lake City or another major hub. Another option is to fly into Salt Lake City and drive about five hours. Inside the park you'll need a car: read renting a car in the US.
Grand Teton and Yellowstone on one trip
Since Yellowstone is about 16 kilometers to the north, according to Wikipedia, the road through Grand Teton leads straight to its south entrance. A typical plan spends one or two days in Grand Teton and three or four in Yellowstone, with its geysers and colorful grand canyon. Everything about that park is in Yellowstone: entrance fee and how to get there. If you continue north, Montana has Glacier National Park, another surcharge park where the annual pass also works.
When to go to Grand Teton
June to September is the main season: all roads and services are open, and in June the meadows fill with wildflowers. July and August are the busiest months. For many, September is the best month, with fewer people, fall colors in the aspens and more active wildlife. In winter, much of the park's road network closes for snow, and the town of Jackson becomes a ski destination.
Jackson: where to stay
The town of Jackson, south of the park, is the base for most travelers, with hotels, restaurants, shops and its famous town square with arches made of elk antlers. It's expensive, especially in summer. Inside the park there are lodges and campgrounds, booked many months ahead. Another option is Teton Village, by the ski resort, which in summer runs an aerial tram with mountain views.
One day in Grand Teton
Sunrise at Mormon Row for the classic photo; a morning at Jenny Lake, crossing by boat and hiking to a waterfall or viewpoint; midday at a Snake River overlook; an afternoon on Signal Mountain or by Jackson Lake; and sunset in the meadows looking for moose. With two days, add a longer hike or a float trip on the river.
Practical tips
- Altitude. The valley is high: take it easy on your first day and drink plenty of water.
- Warm clothes. Mornings are cold even in summer.
- Cell service. Weak in many areas; download your maps.
- Wildlife on the road. Drive slowly, especially at dawn and dusk.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Grand Teton National Park?
In northwestern Wyoming, about 16 kilometers south of Yellowstone, next to the town of Jackson.
How much does it cost to enter Grand Teton?
$35 per vehicle, valid for seven days. Foreign visitors aged 16 or older also pay $100 per person, unless they have the nonresident annual pass.
Does the Grand Teton entrance fee cover Yellowstone?
No. According to the NPS, each park charges its own entrance fee.
How tall is the Grand Teton?
About 4,199 meters (13,775 feet), according to Wikipedia.
What is the closest airport to Grand Teton?
Jackson Hole Airport, which is inside the park itself.
When is the best time to visit Grand Teton?
June to September; September has fewer people and fall colors.