Teton Mountain Range
The most photographed mountain range in the United States, the Grand Tetons inspire awe no matter how many times you have seen them. Situated along a geologic fault line, the peaks rise dramatically from the valley floor creating the picturesque panorama that made Grand Teton National Park famous.
If you haven’t ever visited Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) and seen the Teton Mountain Range for yourself, it is a trip well worth taking. If you have, it is the kind of place that gets better each time you visit. Despite the jagged peaks reaching up to 13, 770 feet, there is a tranquil quality about the park that soothes the soul and refreshes the senses.
The Grand Tetons are, geologically speaking, the youngest mountain range in North America. Formed along the Teton Fault, the eastern faces lack foothills, rising sharply from the valley floor. Geologists estimate that without the natural erosive processes constantly filing the mountains down, the peaks would reach 23,000 feet.
Three major glacial periods produced large U-shaped valleys below the rocky peaks as well as crystal blue lakes at the base of the mountains. Several are accessible by car, and others require short walks to overnight treks, depending on the observer’s desire. Each provides breathtaking views and is a perfect way to enjoy the mountain environment.
Besides driving through Grand Teton National Park and stopping at the many and strategically located pull outs for photo opportunities, there are a myriad of ways to enjoy the mountains, whether you are on top of them, at the lowest point in the valley, or somewhere in between. Some local favorites include:
- Camping – There are several campgrounds within the park that provide the opportunity to nestle up next to the Tetons. Magnificent sunsets and crisp mountain air are two great reasons to enjoy a night or two under the stars. The campground at Jenny Lake provides tent camping sites while the campgrounds at Signal Mountain and Lizard Creek have room for campers and RV’s as well as access to Jackson Lake. There are also plenty of back country sites requiring a permit which can be obtained at the visitor’s center in Moose or the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.
- Float or Fishing Trip on the Snake River – There are two stretches of the Snake River within GTNP that offer some of the finest views of the Teton Range available. Glacial recession and erosion have carved deep into the valley floor making the river is the lowest point in the valley. Several companies provide guided trips that allow you opportunities to gaze upon the shifting views of the mountains, spot a wide array of wildlife living within the river plain, and witness glacial evidence.
- Guided Climbing – If you feel the need to stand atop one of the peaks, a guided service will train and accompany you safely to the top where you can see the expansiveness of the 40 mile long, 15 mile wide range.
network of Travel Guides