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✓ Updated December 2025

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Best Time to Visit Grand Teton National Park, USA: May or Jun 2025

Grand Teton National Park, USA travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Serenity at Oxbow Bend during ideal visiting season
Image: Barns grand tetons.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly radiant experience at Grand Teton National Park, aim for late June through September. This period offers the most accessible trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, with the mountains standing in sharp, radiant relief against clear blue skies. Imagine the crisp air of early autumn, around September, as golden aspens begin their radiant display and the crowds thin, allowing for more intimate encounters with the park's breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife. While summer brings vibrant wildflowers and warmer days, the fall offers a unique, radiant tranquility before the snows arrive.

Best Months to Visit:

MayJunJulAugSep

Airport Code

JAC

Coordinates

43.79°, -110.68°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Serenity at Oxbow Bend

Witness the Teton Range mirrored in the glassy waters of the Snake River as the sun paints the peaks in hues of orange and pink. This iconic viewpoint is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hour, and you might spot moose or elk grazing along the riverbanks.

Hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point

Take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle across the lake for a shorter, more accessible hike to the thundering Hidden Falls. Continue uphill to Inspiration Point for a spectacular, elevated panorama of Jenny Lake and the valley floor – a classic Teton vista without an arduous climb.

Discover Mormon Row's Historic Barns

Step back in time at Mormon Row, a collection of historic homesteads with the Teton Range as their dramatic backdrop. The iconic Moulton Barn, in particular, offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially with wildflowers in bloom during early summer.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding on String Lake

Escape the crowds by paddling on the shallow, crystal-clear waters of String Lake. Its calm surface is perfect for a leisurely kayak or paddleboard adventure, offering intimate views of the surrounding mountains and a refreshing way to connect with the park's aquatic beauty.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Rent a car, but book it WAY in advance, especially if you're visiting during peak season (summer). The park is vast, and public transport within the park is very limited. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to stop at all the scenic pull-offs and explore areas like Oxbow Bend or Mormon Row at your own pace.

money

Pack your own snacks and picnic lunches to save a bundle. Dining options inside the park can be pricey and often crowded. Grab groceries in Jackson before you head in; a cooler full of sandwiches, fruit, and drinks will be your best friend for a day of exploring.

safety

Be bear aware, always! Carry bear spray and know how to use it – you can buy it in Jackson or rent it. Make noise while hiking, especially in areas with dense vegetation, and never leave food unattended at campsites or picnic areas. Seeing a bear is incredible, but a safe distance is key.

packing

Layers are your absolute best friend here, no matter the season. Mornings can be chilly even in July, with temperatures soaring by midday, and then dropping again at night. Think moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece or puffy jacket, and a waterproof outer shell – you'll thank yourself when the weather shifts unexpectedly.

culture

Embrace the 'leave no trace' ethos. This means packing out everything you pack in, staying on marked trails, and respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance. It's about preserving this stunning natural beauty for future generations, and it's a core value of visiting national parks.

food

Don't miss out on a huckleberry treat! Huckleberries are a local delicacy, and you'll find them in pies, ice cream, jams, and more in Jackson and some park lodges. It's a delicious way to taste a bit of the local flavor, but be aware they are seasonal (late summer).

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
5 days
Feb
5 days
Mar
7 days
Apr
7 days
May
8 days
Jun
8 days
Jul
7 days
Aug
6 days
Sep
6 days
Oct
6 days
Nov
7 days
Dec
5 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan-2°C-15°C28°F5°F20mm
5 days
9.5h
Feb0°C-13°C32°F9°F20mm
5 days
10.5h
Mar5°C-9°C41°F16°F30mm
7 days
12h
Apr10°C-4°C50°F25°F30mm
7 days
13.5h
May16°C1°C61°F34°F40mm
8 days
14.5h
Jun21°C5°C70°F41°F40mm
8 days
15h
Jul25°C8°C77°F46°F30mm
7 days
14.5h
Aug24°C7°C75°F45°F30mm
6 days
13.5h
Sep19°C3°C66°F37°F30mm
6 days
12h
Oct12°C-2°C54°F28°F30mm
6 days
11h
Nov4°C-9°C39°F16°F30mm
7 days
10h
Dec-1°C-13°C30°F9°F20mm
5 days
9h

Grand Teton National Park, USA Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Grand Teton National Park, USA? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

-2°C°C / 28°F°F

5 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Feb in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

0°C°C / 32°F°F

5 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Mar in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

5°C°C / 41°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Apr in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

10°C°C / 50°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

May in Grand Teton National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

16°C°C / 61°F°F

8 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Grand Teton National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

21°C°C / 70°F°F

8 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Grand Teton National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Aug in Grand Teton National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

24°C°C / 75°F°F

6 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Sep in Grand Teton National Park, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

19°C°C / 66°F°F

6 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

12°C°C / 54°F°F

6 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Nov in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

4°C°C / 39°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

Dec in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Weather

-1°C°C / 30°F°F

5 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is cooler. Pack warm clothing and layers.

All Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park, USA

Sunrise Serenity at Oxbow Bend

nature

Witness the Teton Range mirrored in the glassy waters of the Snake River as the sun paints the peaks in hues of orange and pink. This iconic viewpoint is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hour, and you might spot moose or elk grazing along the riverbanks.

Best time: May-Oct

Hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point

activity

Take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle across the lake for a shorter, more accessible hike to the thundering Hidden Falls. Continue uphill to Inspiration Point for a spectacular, elevated panorama of Jenny Lake and the valley floor – a classic Teton vista without an arduous climb.

Best time: Jun-Oct

Discover Mormon Row's Historic Barns

attraction

Step back in time at Mormon Row, a collection of historic homesteads with the Teton Range as their dramatic backdrop. The iconic Moulton Barn, in particular, offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially with wildflowers in bloom during early summer.

Best time: May-Oct

Kayaking or Paddleboarding on String Lake

activity

Escape the crowds by paddling on the shallow, crystal-clear waters of String Lake. Its calm surface is perfect for a leisurely kayak or paddleboard adventure, offering intimate views of the surrounding mountains and a refreshing way to connect with the park's aquatic beauty.

Best time: Jul-Sep

Local Flavors at Dornans

food

Savor a hearty meal or grab picnic supplies at Dornans, a beloved local institution offering stunning views of the Tetons. Their deli and chuckwagon are perfect for a casual, delicious bite after a day of exploring, and the adjacent art gallery showcases regional talent.

Stargazing in the Dark Sky Preserve

nature

Grand Teton is an International Dark Sky Park, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the Milky Way. Find a quiet spot away from developed areas, let your eyes adjust, and prepare to be mesmerized by the celestial spectacle overhead.

Best time: Aug-Oct

Explore the Western Art and Antiques in Jackson

shopping

Wander through the charming town of Jackson, just south of the park, and browse its numerous galleries and antique shops. You'll find a treasure trove of Western art, Native American crafts, and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Wild West.

Wildlife Watching on Antelope Flats Road

nature

Drive slowly along Antelope Flats Road, especially in the early morning or late evening, for your best chance to spot bison herds, pronghorn, and coyotes roaming the sagebrush flats. Keep a safe distance and use binoculars for optimal viewing of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Best time: Apr-Nov

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Getting Around Grand Teton National Park, USA

Personal Vehicle (Rental Car or Own)

The most flexible way to explore Grand Teton National Park, allowing you to set your own pace and access remote trailheads. Essential for reaching viewpoints like Oxbow Bend and Mormon Row at optimal times.

Cost:$50-$100+ per day for rental, plus $35 per vehicle for a 7-day park entrance pass.
Tip:Book rental cars *months* in advance, especially for summer. Download offline maps (Google Maps, AllTrails) as cell service is spotty. Avoid parking in pull-offs that block traffic; use designated turnouts. Be aware of wildlife crossing roads, especially at dawn and dusk – slow down!

Grand Teton Lodge Company Shuttle (Seasonal)

Operated by the park concessioner, this shuttle connects major lodges, visitor centers, and popular trailheads within the park. It's a convenient option if you're staying at one of the lodges and want to avoid driving and parking hassles.

Cost:Varies by route and season, often included with lodge stays or a small per-ride fee ($5-$10). Check the GTLC website for current pricing.
Tip:This is *not* a hop-on-hop-off service for all attractions. It's primarily for lodge guests and accessing specific trailheads. Check the schedule *daily* as it changes. Don't assume it stops everywhere; plan your itinerary around its routes.

Jackson Hole Town Shuttles (Limited)

During peak season, some services may offer limited shuttle routes from Jackson town to the park entrance or specific areas like Taggart Lake. These are less common and more for day-trippers from town.

Cost:Can range from $20-$50 round trip, depending on the provider and destination.
Tip:These are often private tour operators, not official park services. Research companies like 'Alltrans' or 'Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures' well in advance. These are best if you're staying in Jackson and want a guided experience or don't want to drive at all.

Bicycle

The Teton Park Road has paved shoulders and bike lanes in many sections, making cycling a fantastic way to experience the park's beauty up close. It's particularly enjoyable for shorter distances between viewpoints.

Cost:Bike rentals in Jackson start around $40-$60 per day. Park entrance fee still applies per vehicle if you drive to a starting point.
Tip:Rent bikes in Jackson Hole, not typically within the park. Be prepared for hills and elevation changes. Always yield to vehicles and wildlife. Carry plenty of water and snacks, as services are sparse. The Jenny Lake Trail is a popular, scenic route but can be crowded.

Walking/Hiking

Once you've reached a trailhead or viewpoint by other means, walking and hiking are your primary modes of transport to explore the park's stunning landscapes. Many iconic spots are accessible via short, easy walks.

Cost:Free, beyond the park entrance fee.
Tip:Wear appropriate footwear. Check trail conditions at visitor centers – some trails can be snow-covered well into summer. Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and never feeding animals. Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Grand Teton National Park, and what should I expect?

For that iconic, postcard-perfect scenery with wildflowers and generally good weather, aim for July or August. However, be prepared for crowds and book accommodations well in advance! If you prefer fewer people and stunning fall colors, September is fantastic, though some services might start winding down.

I'm planning a trip in late spring. Is it worth visiting Grand Teton before the summer rush?

Absolutely, but with a caveat! Late May and early June offer fewer crowds and dramatic snow-capped peaks against vibrant green valleys. Just know that many higher elevation roads, like the Teton Park Road beyond Jenny Lake and Signal Mountain Summit Road, might still be closed due to snow, so always check the park's official website for current conditions before you go.

What's the best way to get around Grand Teton without a car, or if I want to minimize driving?

While a car offers the most flexibility, you can still experience a lot! The free park shuttle system around Jenny Lake is a lifesaver for accessing popular trailheads like Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. For a truly unique perspective, consider renting a bike and cycling along the scenic pathways – it's a fantastic way to soak in the views without the traffic.

Are there any 'must-do' hikes that aren't completely overrun with people?

For a less crowded but incredibly rewarding hike, try the Phelps Lake trail. You can access it from the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, which often has a visitor limit, adding to the tranquility. The trail leads to a stunning lake with opportunities for picnicking and even a fun jumping rock if you're feeling adventurous.

What's a common mistake first-time visitors make in Grand Teton?

Many people underestimate the park's size and try to cram too much into one day, rushing from viewpoint to viewpoint. My advice? Pick a few key areas – perhaps Jenny Lake and Oxbow Bend – and really explore them. Take your time, enjoy the wildlife spotting opportunities (early morning and dusk are best!), and savor the immense scale of the Tetons.

Besides the famous viewpoints, what's a hidden gem or a local favorite spot you'd recommend?

Don't miss the historic Mormon Row! It's a bit off the main road, but the iconic barns with the Tetons as a backdrop are breathtaking, especially at sunrise or sunset. It feels like stepping back in time, and it's a photographer's dream. Plus, you might spot some bison grazing nearby.

What is the cheapest month to visit Grand Teton National Park, USA?

The cheapest months to visit Grand Teton National Park, USA are typically Jan and Feb during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Grand Teton National Park, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Grand Teton National Park, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Grand Teton National Park, USA?

Avoid visiting Grand Teton National Park, USA during Jan if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Grand Teton National Park, USA expensive to visit?

Grand Teton National Park, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during May and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Grand Teton National Park, USA famous for?

Grand Teton National Park, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during May or Jun for the best experience.

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