Top 5 Must Visit Sites in Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park is home to breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural history. Visitors can explore a variety of iconic spots, each offering unique experiences that can be captured in stunning photographs. Displaying these large art pieces in your home or office allows you to relive these adventures daily.
Here are my favorite 5 places to see in Grand Teton National Park, along with interesting facts about each location. These pieces along with many others are found in my Wyoming collection.
- TA Moulton Barn
- John Moulton Barn
- Where is Jenny Lake
- Travel to Oxbow Bend
- Timeless Beauty of the Grand Tetons
1. Mormon Row Historic District
Mormon Row is one of the most photographed locations in Grand Teton National Park, and for a good reason. This historic district, settled by Mormon homesteaders in the late 19th century, features iconic wooden barns set against the backdrop of the towering Teton Range.
Interesting Facts about Mormon Row Historic District:
- TA Moulton Barn: Considered the most photographed barn in America, the TA Moulton Barn symbolizes the pioneering spirit of the American West.
- It took TA Moulton over 30 years to build his barn.
- John Moulton Barn: Is actually older than the TA Moulton barn and has a cattle chute.
- In the mid-1900's, Grand Teton National Park acquired Mormon Row.
- In the late 1800's settlers dug miles of ditches to bring water from the river to their fields. In 1927, the Kelly Warm Spring cooled and caused a hydrologic shift - and brought dependable water to the settlement year-round.
- Preservation: The National Park Service maintains the remaining structures to preserve the historical significance of the area.
Photographic Experience
Capturing the TA Moulton and John Moulton barns at sunrise or sunset (depending on the season) when the light casts a golden hue over the landscape provides an unforgettable image.
Mormon Row can bring a sense of history and rugged beauty into your space - regardless of your decor.
2. Oxbow Bend
Oxbow Bend is a must-see for anyone visiting Grand Teton National Park. This scenic spot along the Snake River is renowned for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Moran and the surrounding landscape.
Interesting Facts about Oxbow Bend:
- Wildlife Viewing: Oxbow Bend is a prime location for spotting wildlife such as moose, beavers, and bald eagles. Keep your eyes peeled - there are all sorts of birds flying in the area.
- Best Times: Early morning and late evening are the best times to visit for optimal lighting and the chance to see wildlife. However, it is beautiful at any time of the day.
Photographic Experience:
A photo of Oxbow Bend captures the serene beauty and tranquil reflections, making it a perfect piece of art to add a touch of calm and natural elegance to your home or office. The best time is basically anytime. The below picture was taken around 10-11 a.m. - well after sunrise, yet still a stunning shot.
3. Snake River Overlook
The Snake River Overlook offers one of the most iconic views in the park, made famous by Ansel Adams’ 1942 photograph. The overlook provides a stunning panoramic view of the Snake River winding through the valley with the Teton Range in the background.
Interesting Facts about Snake River Overlook
- Ansel Adams' photograph played a crucial role in promoting the conservation of American wilderness areas. One of his famous photos was on Snake River.
- The Snake River has carved its way through the landscape over millions of years, creating the dramatic scenery.
- The Snake River Overlook is considered one of the 4 top photographic sites in the Grand Teton National Park.
Photographic Experience:
Capturing the sweeping views from Snake River Overlook can provide a dramatic and timeless piece of art that embodies the majesty of the American West. Word of caution - it doesn't look the same today as it did when Ansel Adams took his photograph over 75 years ago. Nature has changed the landscape with larger trees and some of the river hidden. However you can still get an amazing photo!
As with most locations at GTNP, sunrise and sunset are the best photographic times. Bring your tripod, a jacket, a cup of coffee and prepare for a great shot!
“It was a beautiful stretch of water, either to a photographer or a fisherman, although each would have focused his equipment on a different point.” -Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through It
4. Jackson Lake
Jackson Lake is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the United States and a centerpiece of Grand Teton National Park. The lake offers a wide range of recreational activities and stunning views.
Interesting Facts about Jackson Lake
- The lake’s water level is regulated by the Jackson Lake Dam. The dam was originally built in 1911, then rebuilt in 1989. The new dam raised the lake's water level by 39 feet - ensuring a consistent water supply for downstream farm irrigation.
- Jackson Lake is one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the US. Fed by the snake river, Jackson Lake was formed by glacial debris that blocked the valley and trapped the water (moraine-dammed lake), it is 15 miles long. 7 miles wide. Up to 438 feet deep.
- There are over 15 islands throughout the lake.
- For you sports activity enthusiasts, Jackson Lake is a popular activities include boating, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and swimming. All with a spectacular view of the Teton Mountain Range. If fishing is more your sport, the lake has brown and lake trout, fine-spotted cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish.
Photographic Experience:
Photos of Jackson Lake often capture the interplay between water and mountains, with reflections of the Teton Range adding depth and beauty. The blue skies with or without clouds bring a sense of tranquility and natural wonder to the picture.
5. Jenny Lake
I have saved, what I consider, the best for last - Jenny Lake! Jenny Lake is another gem within Grand Teton National Park as it's known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain view, and easily accessible overlook. If you're a hiker, this lake area offers access to some of the park’s best hiking trails.
Interesting Facts about Jenny Lake:
- Jenny Lake was formed by glaciers over 12,000 years ago. The glaciers carved out Cascade Canyon which deposited terminal moraines - which now block the lake.
- Jenny Lake is one of the deepest lakes in GTNP with a maximum depth of 423 feet. It covers 1,191 acres!!!
- Jenny Lake is named after a Shoshone Indian (Jenny) who assisted with camp logistics durin gthe Hayden Geological Survey in 1872.
- A popular trail is the 7.1 mile Jenny Lake Trail. With stops at a 100-foot cascading waterfall at Hidden Falls and cliffside panoramas at Inspiration Point.
- BEAR BEWARE - Jenny Lake is home to black and grizzly bears. Always be aware, make noise and don't get close to them. Remember this isn't a zoo - it's nature. I have been several times and haven't seen any bears, but there were lots of warning signs. Better safe than sorry!
Photographic Experience:
A photo of Jenny Lake, with its pristine waters and surrounding peaks, can evoke a sense of adventure and natural beauty, making it an beautiful, calming inspirational piece. This piece was taken late morning and may be why Jenny Lake is one of my favorite stops in the GTNP! Not a cloud in the sky and with the blue reflecting on the deep waters of Jenny Lake..... it simply takes my breath away with natures beauty.
Grand Teton National Park is a destination filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse activities. Whether you’re exploring historic sites like Mormon Row, enjoying the serene beauty of Jackson and Jenny Lakes, or capturing the dynamic energy of Teton Village and Jackson Hole, there’s something for everyone.
My Wyoming collection of art features many places in Grand Teton National Park - as they not only capture your experiences but also allow you to relive those moments every day. By displaying large art pieces of these iconic spots, you can bring the beauty and adventure of Grand Teton National Park into your home or office, inspiring you and those around you.
Happy Travels! ~Lisa
Born in California and raised in Arkansas, Lisa has lived within seven miles of her grandparents’ 1936 homesteadsince she was ten years old. As an only child of an only child, she spent countless hours fueling her creativity—crafting, designing, and refining ideas. While Arkansas has changed over the years, Lisa remains drawn to life’s simple yet beautiful moments, finding inspiration in nature, landscapes, and the great outdoors.
