A lot of chatter in the news and socials lately about the landslide and road closure around The Grand Tetons. Looks like its going to add about an hour commute (for a while) to all those making the journey between Victor, Idaho and the Jackson area. I’ll personally be out exploring that area in a couple of months, so my ears perked up when I heard the news!
Doesn’t look like this closure will effect my travel plans as of now, the way I have the routes planned, but might indirectly … who knows. I am deeply concerned for all those affected by the recent road closure impacting the main artery into Grand Teton National Park from Idaho. I hope for a swift and safe repair and extend my best wishes to everyone as they patiently wait for the fix.
Before this closure, I was doing a bit of research and planning for my trek out there. As is often the case, I reach out to ChatGPT to get a general plan going. The following is the result of that … first the prompt request (in shaded green), and the answer. Haven’t “fact checked” it, but a good start I think 🙂
“Can you create the perfect 3 day 2 night itinerary for visiting the grand Tetons for the first time? This is for a couple in their late 50’s. They have a car and also a cabin booked near Jenny lake already. They will be driving down from Bozeman then be leaving to go to Yellowstone after this.”
“Majestic Grand Teton National Park: An AI-created artistic impression captures the serene beauty of Jenny Lake and the towering Teton Range, showcasing the essence of a perfect day in this breathtaking landscape.”
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction
Morning: Drive from Bozeman to Grand Teton National Park
- Depart Bozeman early (around 7 AM) to make the most of your day.
- The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours (180 miles), so expect to arrive around noon.
Afternoon: Arrival and Scenic Drive
- Check into your cabin near Jenny Lake.
- After settling in, take a leisurely drive along the Teton Park Road. Stop at key viewpoints such as:
- Schwabacher’s Landing: Beautiful reflections of the Tetons in the Snake River.
- Snake River Overlook: Famous for the iconic Ansel Adams photograph.
- Mormon Row Historic District: Iconic barns with the Teton Range in the background.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset at Jenny Lake
- Return to your cabin and relax.
- Have dinner at a nearby restaurant or enjoy a meal prepared in your cabin.
- Head to Jenny Lake for a sunset stroll along the lakeshore. The light on the Tetons at this time is spectacular.
Day 2: Exploring Grand Teton National Park
Morning: Jenny Lake and Inspiration Point
- Take the Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat across the lake early in the morning.
- Hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point (total hike about 2-3 hours). This is a moderate hike with rewarding views.
Mid-Morning: Scenic Drive and Wildlife Spotting
- Drive along Moose-Wilson Road for a chance to see wildlife such as moose and bears.
- Visit Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and take a short hike on one of the trails if time allows.
Afternoon: Lunch and Jackson Lake
- Have lunch at Signal Mountain Lodge or bring a picnic to enjoy by Jackson Lake.
- After lunch, explore Jackson Lake. Consider renting a kayak or canoe for a peaceful paddle with stunning views.
Late Afternoon: Signal Mountain and Oxbow Bend
- Drive up Signal Mountain Summit Road for panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole.
- Visit Oxbow Bend for another great wildlife viewing opportunity and beautiful reflections of Mount Moran in the Snake River.
Evening: Dinner in Jackson
- Head to the town of Jackson for dinner. Consider dining at one of the local favorites like The Blue Lion or Snake River Grill.
- Stroll around the town square, visit the iconic antler arches, and perhaps browse some art galleries or shops.
Day 3: Hiking and Departure
Morning: Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake Hike
- Start your day with a hike to Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake (about 6 miles round trip, moderate difficulty). Enjoy the serene lakes and stunning mountain views.
Late Morning: Chapel of the Transfiguration and Menors Ferry Historic District
- Visit the Chapel of the Transfiguration, a historic church with a picturesque view of the Tetons through its window.
- Explore the Menors Ferry Historic District nearby to learn about the early settlers in the area.
Afternoon: Final Scenic Spots and Departure to Yellowstone
- Have lunch at Dornan’s Chuckwagon near Moose Junction, enjoying their outdoor seating with Teton views.
- After lunch, drive to Colter Bay Village for a quick look at the Colter Bay Visitor Center and Indian Arts Museum.
Late Afternoon: Drive to Yellowstone
- Begin your drive to Yellowstone, which is about a 1.5-hour drive (70 miles) from Colter Bay Village.
- Depending on your entry point, you can explore the southern section of Yellowstone, perhaps stopping by West Thumb Geyser Basin or Grant Village before continuing to your accommodation in Yellowstone.
This itinerary balances relaxation, scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and light to moderate hiking, making it perfect for a couple in their late 50s experiencing Grand Teton National Park for the first time.