Our Rhodes Rules family discovered the perfect environment to “dream, explore, and inspire” in Grand Teton National Park, one of the most photographed and iconic skylines in the world. Here, you can explore over 200 miles of trails and discover the diverse wildlife, pristine lakes, and an amazing alpine terrain. Just the initial drive into the park boasts grand views of the majestic mountains, and our first sight gave our family a small glimpse of everything to be explored during the week before us.
Gros Ventre Campground
The Gros Ventre Campground, located in the southeastern area of the park, is the park’s largest campground. We chose Gros Ventre because of its proximity to the town of Jackson (10 – 15 minute drive), because we had some personal business to take care of during our stay. Sagebrush and cottonwoods cover the area and the Gros Ventre River is nearby. If you’re looking for wildlife, this is the place to stay! Bison, moose, and mule deer frequent the area.
At the time we visited, this campground was first-come, first served, and we were thankful to have snagged a site! Since then, all park campgrounds have moved to an advance registration system, reservable on recreation.gov, up to six months in advance. Gros Ventre Campground has 279 campsites, and only 39 have electric hookups. RVs and trailers up to a maximum of 45 feet in length are allowed. Some sections of the park allow generators, except during quiet hours. There is a dump station and potable water is available. The fees are listed below in the “Know Before You Geaux” section.
Moose Sightings!!!
Our family’s big goal, pretty much everywhere we go, is to spot wildlife. Our quest in the Tetons was to find moose. Based on a recommendation from a park ranger at our campground, before sunset one evening, we parked in a small lot on the side of Gros Ventre Road (between Highway 191 and Gros Ventre Campground) and followed a small trail through the grass to a spot where we saw numerous photographers set up. We hit the moose jackpot! Four gigantic bull moose were grazing in the distance!
We also had a couple of run-ins with moose when we least expected it, right smack-dab in the middle of our campground. Once, a mama cow and her calf ventured right in front of our Jeep. The other instance occurred in the middle of the night, when I was awakened by a grunt just outside of my window. I peeked outside, and sure enough, a moose was roaming about our campsite!
Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point Hike
After stopping by the Jenny Lake Visitor Center for our Passport Stamp, we set off to discover just how grand the Tetons are! The Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point hike should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list. It is classified as an easy-moderate hike, with a fairly steep elevation gain of about 400 feet, and is only 1.8 miles round trip.
Our journey began with the ferry ride across the lovely Jenny Lake, where we learned a little history of the area, to the boat dock on the West shore. From there, we trekked to Hidden Falls, a 200-foot cascade down rocky ledges, and then on to Inspiration Point to behold the panoramic views of Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole.
We headed back to the Visitor Center via the South side of the Jenny Lake Trail, which is only 2.5 miles. This trail hugs the perimeter of the lake, and we consider it to be relatively easy, and the scenery is completely worth a little extra effort. However, if hiking is not your thing, the round-trip boat ride is a spectacular option as well.
T.A. Moulton Barn, Mormon Row Historic District
A trip to the Tetons wouldn’t be complete without an obligatory visit to TA Moulton Barn in Mormon Row Historic District. This old dilapidated barn, with the dramatic backdrop of the Grand Tetons, is said to be the most photographed barn in the country, and actually has a pretty interesting history behind it. Mormon settlers arrived in the 1890s and established homesteads and a community in the Gros Ventre area, now known as Mormon Row. Thomas Alma (T.A.) Moulton, one of these settlers, built the iconic barn that still stands today. Although it may not look like much, photographers travel from around the world to capture this famous historic structure. It is a must-see when you visit Grand Teton National Park.
“The mountains are calling, and I must go…” – John Muir
If you hear the mountains summoning you, our family encourages you to heed that calling and explore the rich history and culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes found in the beautiful Grand Tetons.
Please, if you have any questions, ask them in the comments below! Also, let us know if you’ve ever experienced Jackson Hole and Grand Tetons National Park!
Know Before You Geaux
Grand Teton National Park
103 Headquarters Loop
Moose, WY 83012
307-739-3399
- Entrance fee for 7 days: Private vehicle $35, Motorcycle $30, Hiker/Biker $20
- Open year round, 24 hours
https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/index.htm
Gros Ventre Campground
100 Gros Ventre Campground Road
Moran, WY 83013
307-543-3100
- Operating dates: April 30 – October 10, 2021
- Rates (per night):
- – individual tent/rv (no hookups) $42.18 / $21.65 Access Pass or Senior Pass
- – electric only – $66.60 / $46.07 Access Pass or Senior Pass
- – Group sites – $14.43 per person / $7.77 per person Access Pass or Senior Pass
Jenny Lake Trail Hikes
https://www.nps.gov/tripideas/jennylake-hikes.htm
Mormon Row
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In this episode, we invite you along as we explore Jackson Hole WY, discovering the abundant wildlife, hiking the rugged terrain, and enjoying the breathtaking views of Grand Teton National Park.
