Summer in Grand Teton National Park: Best Hikes, Bites, & Shops to Enjoy
As the summer season dawns upon Grand Teton National Park, adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts flock to this stunning destination in Wyoming. With its majestic peaks, picturesque lakes, and abundant wildlife, the park offers many outdoor exploration opportunities. To make the most of your summer getaway, here's a guide to the best hikes, places to eat, shop, and enjoy in and around Grand Teton National Park. Reminder, these are just my personal opinions after working a summer seasonal job in the area.
Shop:
Town Square has lots of amazing souvenir shops, galleries, and restaurants to enjoy. Start with a family picture at the Elk Antler Arches, find your favorite cowboy hat, and work your way around the neighborhood! Here are some of my favorite shops:
Teton Mountaineering: Gear up for your outdoor adventures at Teton Mountaineering. This store offers a wide range of equipment, clothing, and accessories for hiking, climbing, and camping. I found my favorite Blue Ice Firecrest Backpack from here!
Made: Discover unique, locally-made crafts and souvenirs at Made. This boutique features handmade items by artists and artisans from the Jackson Hole area, allowing you to bring a piece of the region's creativity home with you. This store has the best souvenirs for family and friends!
Belle Cose & Altitude: For those seeking an upscale shopping experience, Belle Cose is a must-visit. This boutique showcases exquisite home decor, fashion, and accessories, blending modern elegance with rustic charm. Altitude is the perfect destination for our fashionistas looking for more Western wardrobe pieces!
*If you want to purchase a cowboy hat ahead of time, I absolutely adore the hat pictured below from American Hat Makers. I also would recommend checking out other brands such as Stetson or Gigi Pip Hats as well! They have stunning hat choices!
Eat (In Town):
Healthy Being Cafe: Start your day at Healthy Being Cafe, a haven for health-conscious individuals. Indulge in nourishing and delicious vegan options, from nutrient-packed smoothies to plant-based bowls and sandwiches. This place has plenty of outdoor seating arrangements under the trees and is a very dog-friendly area!
Cowboy Coffee: Before embarking on your adventures, fuel up with a cup of coffee. This local favorite serves up exceptional brews with a side of Western charm. This is next door to the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar where locals and tourists love to party. You can’t miss the infamous neon sign above the roof. For our coffee connoisseurs that like to try all of the blends, check out Snake River Roasting as well! This is fairly new to the area, but my sister and I really love the shop!
Bapp: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Korea at Bapp. This restaurant serves authentic Korean dishes, such as bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi, providing a unique culinary experience in the heart of Jackson. I can’t tell you how many times we grabbed lunch here last summer. It is simple, quick, and so yummy!
Hand Fire Pizza or Liberty Burger: Craving some comfort food? Hand Fire Pizza and Liberty Burger have got you covered. I paired these two restaurants together because they sit right next to each other on the square, so both are great options for the family. Enjoy artisanal pizzas with locally sourced ingredients or sliders made with high-quality meats and creative toppings. Jessee and I got a kick out of watching the pizza dough fly across the room before being tossed into the two-story pizza ovens. It was also common for us to pick up a few to-go burgers from Liberty before a journey back into the park.
Figs: This delightful restaurant is attached to Hotel Jackson and it offers a fusion of Mediterranean and American cuisine. My family enjoyed sharing tasty appetizers and cocktails. Savor their fresh salads, flavorful flatbreads, and mouthwatering desserts in a cozy, romantic, and upscale atmosphere. This is a perfect date-night destination!
Eat (In The Park):
Dornans: I added this to the list because it sits right before the entrance of the park. Situated in Moose, Dornan's offers a delightful and casual experience with breathtaking views of the Teton Range. This is your one-stop shop for everything! Gas Station, Small Grocery/Convenient Store, Souvenir Shop, Local Art Shop, Boat & Bike Rentals, Live Music, Wine Shop, & Lodging. Eat a quick lunch at the indoor deli, have American cuisine outdoors at the Chuckwagon Grill, or eat at the Pizza and Pasta restaurant with rooftop seating.
The Trapper Grill at Signal Mountain: Located near Jackson Lake, Signal Mountain Lodge offers several dining options. Enjoy a meal at their restaurant overlooking the water, or grab a quick bite from their deli. We love the shareable large salads and Signal Mountain Nachos! Our friend that visited town ranked the Blue Cheese dressing as one of the best he has ever had. This is also a great stop to enjoy a game at the Deadman’s Bar and try all of the local beers!
Jenny Lake Lodge: For an upscale dining experience, visit Jenny Lake Lodge. Their seasonal menu created by Executive Chef, Jedidiah Dzimiera, showcases gourmet cuisine, highlighting the flavors of the region. They have an amazing all-you-can-eat breakfast, large-portion lunch, and a fabulous white-tablecloth dinner experience. But, be sure to make a reservation in advance! Dinner is an expensive five-course rotating prix fixe menu.
Blue Heron, Pioneer Grill, & Mural Room: If you are still looking for a place to stay in the park, I especially enjoyed our stay at Jackson Lake Lodge. Hannah, John, and I love seeing the elk herds run through the fields in front of the lodge every morning.
There are three different restaurants at Jackson Lake Lodge, all offering completely different experiences. Nestled in the heart of Jackson Lake Lodge, Blue Heron is a charming restaurant with beautiful views of Mount Moran. Pioneer Grill is set up much like a diner with great comfort foods! Neither of these needs reservations. But, you will need a reservation if you want to eat at the Mural Room. Savor their delectable dishes, featuring local and sustainable ingredients, as you enjoy the sunset behind the Tetons. Make your reservation below!
Hikes:
Delta Lake: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on the challenging but rewarding Delta Lake trail. This 8-mile, strenuous hike is my favorite as it takes you to a turquoise alpine lake nestled beneath the Grand Teton. Keep an eye on your map as this hike takes you off the trail. Follow the rock cairns and other travelers to stay on track. It is well worth it!
Phelps Lake (Jump Rock): Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Phelps Lake on this family-friendly hike. You start this hike at the top and drop into the canyon, seeing glances of the lake on your way down the switchbacks. I have recently seen lots of wildlife in this area, so carry your bear spray and be on the lookout for moose around the lake. Don't miss the chance to leap off the famous Jump Rock. Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes! For a flatter trail to the jump rock, you could start your hike from the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve instead of Death Canyon Trailhead.
Lake Solitude: If you are the type looking for a full-day hiking experience, immerse yourself in the mountains on a hike to Lake Solitude. This 18-mile hike rewards you with stunning 360 views of beautiful wildflowers, flowing streams, and surrounding peaks and brings you to a serene mountain lake. Your legs may be a little sore the following day!
Bradley & Taggart Lakes: Enjoy an easy hike through beautiful aspen trees to reach Bradley and Taggart Lakes. The peaceful setting, with the Teton Range as a backdrop, makes for a perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty. Families love to picnic along the edges of these lakes. These two are really great options for children!
Hidden Falls/Inspiration Point: Ascend the switchbacks of the Inspiration Point trail for breathtaking vistas of Jenny Lake and the surrounding mountains. This moderately strenuous hike offers magnificent views that live up to its name. You can actually make this hike a little shorter by taking the Boat Shuttle system across Jenny Lake. Our parents really enjoyed hiking further into Cascade Canyon for a moose sighting!
Galleries:
National Museum of Wildlife Art: A diverse collection of pieces celebrating the beauty and conservation of nature. Do not skip this! Even if you don’t consider yourself a museum-type. It is on the edge of town, and it is a gorgeous museum full of the best wildlife art around.
Gallery Wild: Discover wildlife-inspired contemporary art at Gallery Wild, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the area’s well-known panoramas, nature, and local animals. I absolutely love the animal paintings and want to take all of them home with me!
Mangelsen - Images of Nature Gallery: Step into this stunning gallery on the square to explore inspirational Teton photography by Tom Mangelsen.
Wild by Nature Gallery: Visit this gallery to admire the stunning landscape photography capturing the essence of Grand Teton National Park by Henry H. Holdsworth. We were lucky enough to meet Henry during our visit and get a signature on his latest book release!
Popular Lookouts:
The Mormon Row Historic Cabin
Snake River Overlook
Oxbow Bend
Signal Mountain
Jackson Lake
Jenny Lake
Signal Mountain
Cascade Canyon Turnout
Schwabacher Landing
Moose-Wilson Road
Local Events:
Farmers Market: Experience the local flavors and community spirit at the Farmers Market in Town Square. Held every Saturday morning, you'll find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music.
The People's Market: If you're visiting on a Wednesday evening, head to The People's Market for a vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. Make sure to find the vendor with the “Sloshies”. My work friends enjoyed talking about what flavors they would find each week.
Hootenanny Concerts: Make your Monday evenings memorable by attending the Hootenany Concerts at Dornans, where you can enjoy live music by the long-term locals, seasonal workers, and returning visitors in a relaxed outdoor setting. Bring your camp chair and grab a brew!
The Jackson Hole Rodeo: Experience a taste of the Wild West at The Jackson Hole Rodeo, where you can witness thrilling rodeo events and experience the cowboy culture.
Check out other summer events happening here!
Additional Activities:
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Gondola & Bike Park: Take a scenic gondola ride or explore the thrilling downhill biking trails at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Word on the street is that I need to try the world-famous waffles at 10,000 feet. Corbet’s Cabin sits at the top of the Gondola and it is known for an amazing breakfast! (check for availability during your visit).
Outdoor Bouldering Park at Snow King: Test your climbing skills at the Outdoor Bouldering Park located at Snow King Mountain. Set up a picnic with the family, climb the boulders with your kiddos, walk your dogs around the park under the shade of the trees, and enjoy watching the locals get their mountain bike laps in at Snow King. Exum Mountain Guides puts on Summer Climbing Clinics here as well. Blacktail Butte(pictured above) is a great sport climbing area as well!
Local Breweries: Quench your thirst! Treat yourself to a cold, locally brewed beer at one of the many local breweries around town. Some of my favorites include Snake River Brewing, StillWest Brewery & Grill, and RoadHouse Brewing Co. It may be difficult to decide on just one. Snake River has a great outdoor area with amazing appetizers. I enjoy the branding at RoadHouse Brewery. It is a great place to people-watch above the square. But, Hannah, John, and I especially enjoyed the patio fireplace and views of Snow King at StillWest. These are popular spots among locals and visitors. Sample their wide selection of craft beers and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
Jackson Hole Winery: Indulge in a wine-tasting experience at Jackson Hole Winery. Savor their handcrafted wines while taking in the picturesque vineyard views. This is still on my bucket list!
White Water Rafting/Scenic Float - Triangle X Ranch: Embark on a thrilling white water rafting adventure or opt for a relaxing scenic float along the Snake River.
Horseback Riding - Triangle X Ranch: Explore the park's scenic trails on horseback with Triangle X Ranch. Discover the beauty of the wilderness and experience the cowboy way of life.
Wilderness Tours or Fishing Tours: Engage in guided wilderness tours or fishing tours to fully take in the natural wonders and abundant wildlife of Grand Teton National Park. For the family that wants to safely run into the animals, this is the best way to sight wildlife. The tour guides know all of the hiding places to check!
Indoor Yoga at Inversion Yoga, Pilates, Barre Studio & Cafe or Outdoor Yoga at the National Wildlife Museum. Get stretched out and rejuvenated before hitting the trails!
Catch a short film at Teton Gravity Research. This media company produces premier ski, snowboard, and surf films. Shop the Grateful Dead-inspired Merch, and Smokey Bear apparel, and take a closer look into the Teton’s ski culture during the winter months.
Paddleboard, Kayak, Canoe, or Swim at String Lake, Leigh Lake, Jackson Lake, and Colter Bay Marina. There are many places to pick up your watercraft. We have always rented our boats at Dornan’s before entering the park. But, be sure to get your boat inspected on the way in!
Rent Bikes for the family and choose your route! Grand Teton National Park has made biking extremely accessible. You can rent bikes from Dornans and take the sidewalk into the park, or you can head toward town!
Backcountry Camping is a great way to spend more time in the mountains, but you must pull a permit beforehand. Get your bear canister and permit from Colter Bay Visitor Center, the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, or the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.
Search for Hotsprings near Grand Teton National Park. North of the park is a popular hike to a few hot springs, Huckleberry/Polecat Hot Springs on John D. Rockefeller Parkway! I have also heard good things about Kelly Warm Springs, Astoria Hot Springs, and Granite Hot Springs.
Day Trip to Yellowstone National Park: Extend your adventure and spend some time in Yellowstone National Park, located just north of Grand Teton. Explore the geysers, hot springs, and wildlife that make Yellowstone a unique and captivating destination. If you get hungry on the way, Flagg Ranch is a great stop for a nice family dinner between parks. Just a few of the amazing stops in Yellowstone National Park include Canyon Village, Lower Yellowstone Falls, Upper Yellowstone Falls, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, Shoshone Lake, Old Faithful, and Grand Prismatic.
Additionally: If you're looking to car camp or tent camp under the stars, consider staying at Shadow Mountain. This is a dispersed camping area. This first-come, first-served campsite offers a secluded and peaceful experience surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. Grand Teton National Park has amazing stargazing opportunities. This free camping area gives you the best sunrise view of the Tetons. Wake up surrounded by wildflowers and see the first light hit the Grand!
Summer in Grand Teton National Park offers an array of activities, from exhilarating hikes and immersive art experiences to delightful dining options and unique shopping opportunities. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, this magnificent park has something for everyone. Embrace the beauty of nature, savor local flavors, and create memories that will last a lifetime in the heart of the Tetons. Now that you have a good idea of what to expect, be sure to check out my blog: What to Pack for Your Grand Teton National Park Vacation | Spring/Summer!
Happy Trails, Em
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