NATIONAL PARKS TETON TACTICS: HOW TO SPEND 1 HOUR OR 1 WEEKEND AT GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK With majestic mountains as your backdrop and forested trails, roaring rivers and more than 100 alpine and backcountry lakes beckoning for exploration, this wild wonderland is just a few miles from the town of Jackson. Grand Teton in an hour If you’re en route to Yellowstone or other points farther afield and only have an hour or so to play with, you’re in luck — that’s ample time to soak up some sights. Here are three ideas, which can be combined to fill a day trip. @Mr. Nixter @senasmom @b.e.a_b.e.a_ Teton Park Road Mormon Row Historic District Taggart Lake Trail CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: FLICKR/MR. NIXTER; INSTAGRAM/SENASMOM; INSTAGRAM/B.E.A_B.E.A_; FLICKR/DAVE HENSLEY. Known as the 42-Mile Scenic Loop Drive, the thoroughfare offers a great overview of the park, with stunning vistas of the Tetons and plenty of wildlife-viewing opportunities along the way. Pick up a map at Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, then choose a specific part of the loop to explore. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this photogenic tract of land was founded as a ranch settlement in the 1890s. Many of the original homesteads have been preserved, providing a slew of glorious photo ops with the majestic Tetons looming in the distance. INSIDER TIPS The moderate route’s short length (about 3 miles round trip) and minor elevation gain (roughly 300 feet) make it ideal for quick visits, big groups and little hikers. A handful of stream crossings and pretty lake views are sure to please any crew. Avoid the Crowds. Late June through late August tends to be a very busy time at the parks. Visit during the shoulder season in early June and September for a quieter retreat. Arrive Early (or Late). Getting an early start maxi-mizes your chances of finding parking, quieter trails and clear waters. During the peak season, there’s often daylight until 9 p.m. or later, and many portions of the park clear out substantially by 4 or 5 p.m. Practice Wildlife Safety. Be sure to stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards away from other animals. Stay safe from bears when you’re out exploring by carrying bear spray, being alert, making noise and traveling in groups of three or more. Learn more about bear safety at wgfd.wyo.gov. Be Responsible for Your Pup. Dogs are not permitted on trails and pathways, inside visitor centers or in any park waters. Want a good rule of thumb? A pet may go anywhere a car can go including roads, campgrounds, picnic areas and parking lots. Always pick up after your pets and keep them on a 6-foot leash. @Dave Hensley JACKSON LAKE LODGE OVERLOOK Learn more about the parks at nps.gov/yell and nps.gov/grte. TravelWyoming.com 56
Wyoming Official Travel Guide 2022 Wyoming Official Travel Guide: Page 56
