Visit these three magnificent nature wonders at Grand Teton National Park.
Grand Teton National Park is a pristine wilderness in the heart of Wyoming where granite peaks scrape the light blue sky. Crystal-clear lakes reflect the puffy white clouds floating above the emerald meadows which grace the slopes of the mighty Teton Range. Here are the best nature wonders to explore at Grand Teton National Park.
Jackson Lake
Start your trip at Jackson Lake Lodge, a stately wood-and-stone building with magnificent windows which give visitors a clear view of the peaks far beyond the dining room window. During your stay, make your way to the Christian Pond Loop, an easy 3.5-mile trail along a marsh and wooded ridge. Then, enjoy a moderate hike to Grand View Point, where an overlook provides a stunning glimpse of Jackson Hole, a valley at the base of the Teton Range where rugged wood barns dot sprawling green fields.
If you prefer a short loop trail, try the Lunch Tree Hill hike, an easy 0.5-mile paved trail along a steep incline. Along the path, soak in views of the slate-gray mountains which tower over the grasslands below known as Willow Flats. For an unforgettable adventure on the water, rent a pontoon boat and cruise around Jackson Lake or try your hand at water skiing, wakeboarding or windsurfing. Jackson Lake is a haven for fishermen as well — trout, salmon and pike swim below the surface, luring anglers to cast their lines into the water for a catch.
Jenny Lake
After visiting Jackson Lake, head to Jenny Lake, an enchanting setting where snowcapped mountains soar above the tree-lined shore. For the best view of the lake, take a moderate 5.7-mile hike to Inspiration Point via the South Jenny Lake Loop Trail and gaze down on the glistening water from your perch on a rocky cliff. Keep in mind that you will be walking on a dirt pathway with steep rock stairs and several switchbacks.
For an equally impressive view of the lake, take the Hidden Falls trail. Along your lakeside trek, soak in the beauty of a 100-foot waterfall cascading down the mountainside, thundering past bright green trees in a mad rush of snowmelt. For your final lakeshore excursion, take the paved 0.35-mile Discovery Trail, where you can catch a glimpse of the lake’s teal-blue water rippling in the shadow of mighty snowcapped peaks.
Cascade Canyon
Clouds smear the azure sky above the vast Cascade Canyon, a magnificent gorge set against a backdrop of skyscraping summits. Explore the forks of the canyon via a strenuous 9.4-mile hike along the South Jenny Lake Loop trail. Along your hike, keep an eye out for wildlife, including small mouse-like pikas, deer, moose and bears. Keep at least 25 yards back from a moose and stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves. Before hitting the trail, pack an abundance of water and have bear spray at the ready. For the best chance of enjoying good weather on the trail, avoid hiking in the afternoon when there is a high risk of thunderstorms.
Make the most of your visit to Grand Teton National Park when you visit these nature wonders.
