9 Summer Adventures in Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States. From the precise and angular ridges of the Teton Range jutting into the sky to the soft and serene waters of Jenny Lake, if you haven’t experienced this natural wonder in real life, you’ve undoubtedly seen a photograph or video of this nearly otherworldly landscape. While you could spend an entire trip staring at the wonders of this Wyoming oasis, there is a whole world out there waiting for you to dig your hands into. As the warm months start to round the bend, we’ve collected a list of our top nine things to do in Grand Teton this summer. Whether you decide to ride, raft, pedal, or paddle, you're sure to have the time of your life.

1. Go Horseback Riding

Saddle up and experience the West in true cowboy form. Choose from a variety of guided horseback rides that promise a view of sweeping vistas that include the Tetons, Christian Pond and Oxbow Bend on the Snake River. An hour, two-hour, half-day or multiple-day trip on horseback is the perfect way to authentically experience the Western spirit that lives on in Wyoming.

2. Take a Scenic Rafting Trip

Float down the relaxing Snake River while enjoying spectacular views of dense forests and the majestic Tetons. On a guided raft trip, you'll learn about Wyoming’s flora and fauna and have a chance to spot local wildlife, including moose, bison, bald eagles, elk and beavers. Families can enjoy leisurely float trips while adventure seekers can opt for a guided whitewater rapids excursion, which will take you through canyons and Class III rapids—a guaranteed good time.

3. Visit an Interpretive Center 

One of the best ways to learn about an area is to visit the local interpretive center. They give great context and additional layers to the vast world you are about to discover. The Craig Thomas Discover Center is nestled under the Teton Range and is bursting with information on the people, landmarks, preservation, mountaineering and Indigenous tribes of the area. Here, you can also start your backcountry adventure and get your boating license. The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center is an exceptionally special place to visit. Found inside the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, a preserve dedicated to nature and offering an opportunity for guests to find solitude and reflection, the center focuses on sharing Mr. Rockefeller’s vision for the preserve and conservation stewardship through sensory exhibits that focus on the visual, auditory, and tactile qualities of the Preserve's plants and wildlife.

4. Take a Hike!

Grand Teton National Park is ripe with bucket list hiking trails. From a day hike around Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes, to a longer adventure around the Grand Teton Loop, there’s a hike for everyone in these parts. Lunch Tree Hill and Phelps Lake Overlook are both easy hikes that offer spectacular views the whole family can enjoy. Aspen Ridge - Boulder Ridge and Hermitage Point are moderate to strenuous hikes, depending on the speed at which you set pace and Paintbrush Canyon - Cascade Canyon Loop and Lake Solitude are excellent options for experienced hikers.

5. Spend the Day Fishing

With its abundance of deep blue lakes, spring streams and the Snake River, Grand Teton National Park offers plenty of options for fishermen looking to snag their next big catch. Head to Colter Bay Village Marina on Jackson Lake for fishing licenses and boat rentals, or schedule a guided fly-fishing tour.

6. Climb the Tetons

The Tetons are what climbers of all experience levels dream of, with a variety of different trails scattered throughout the park, perfect for a range of skills and climbing tastes. Beginners should try a low-elevation route like the 1.2-mile hike to Phelps Lake, whereas advanced adventurers can opt for a challenging trek up Hanging Canyon. Hikers looking for a moderate challenge with wildflower-filled valleys and peaceful pools of water should try the trail leading to Solitude Lake. The 16-mile journey starts at South Jenny Lake and leads you through Cascade Canyon. Bring camping gear and make it an overnight trip. Anyone can benefit from a guide, and Exum Mountain Guides are here to make your dream excursion a reality. 

7. Cruise Around Jenny Lake

This scenic drive takes you along the east shore of Jenny Lake. It is almost two square miles of cold, mountain lake and provides awe-inspiring views of the Teton peaks. The short 30-minute drive offers a unique view while giving you a chance to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the area. It is also where you will find the famous Cascade Canyon Overlook, a must-visit destination in the Grand Tetons. Want to get a better view? Hop on a scenic cruise and skirt the edges of Mount Moran’s shadows as you learn about local history, geology, and folklore from a knowledgeable and fun guide. Go the extra mile with a meal cruise where you will dine on Elk Island while you see the park from a new perspective.

8. View Local Wildlife

Sixty species of mammals, more than 300 species of birds and a half dozen game fish call this area home, so spotting critters in their natural habitats should be easy, as long as you know where to look. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot various winged species, such as fox sparrows, ospreys, mountain bluebirds and bald eagles. For larger animals, such as elk, coyotes and muskrats, try these areas.

9. Camp Under the Stars

Visitors to Wyoming often remark on the state’s star-filled night sky. Thanks to the lack of light pollution in the Tetons — aided by Wyoming’s distinction as the least populated state in the Union — clear nights are memorable. How dark does it get? Very! Teton County was the first county entity in the world to earn an International Dark Sky Certification. It’s a fact we’re very proud to hang our hat on. Bring your warm clothes (even summer nights get chilly) and your camera. Campgrounds are open in the summer, and backcountry camping permits are issued year-round.

Explore Grand Teton National Park This Summer

With its towering 13,775-foot peaks, 310,000 acres of lush valley floors, mountain meadows, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife, Grand Teton National Park is a present waiting for you to unwrap. Book your stay with the friendly folks at Grand Teton Lodge Company, who have several locations to choose from, or get wild at Wyoming’s premier dude ranch, Triangle X Ranch. Download our Free Wyoming Travel Guide for more fun activities to do while on your Wyoming trip, or visit our dedicated Grand Teton National Park page for more information. Happy travels!