Grand Teton National Park
Travel Tips
Bring binoculars - This is one place where everyone in the family will want to binoculars to see the wildlife. Plan on bringing inexpensive binoculars for everyone in the family. Seeing a pronghorn bounding through the sagebrush far in the distance, or a close up look at velvet-covered antlers on a moose is only possible with binoculars.
Insect repellent - Even in mid July, the meadows can be wet and the mosquitoes annoying. Mosquitoes also come out at twilight, so be sure to bring along a good mosquito repellent.
Drinking water - Even on a short hike, bring water bottles with you. It's easy to get dehydrated, so drink plenty of water. The streams in Grand Teton look pristine, but don't drink directly from the streams.
Footwear - Don't short change yourself; make sure everyone has comfortable shoes. Closed toed shoes are best. Flip flops and plastic sandals are okay on paved paths, but not on dirt trails.
Changeable weather - In summer, the weather can be variable, from warm days, but evenings can be chilly, especially if you're out on the water. Thunderstorms can come up in the summer, so have a light jacket along.
Hikes - Get an early start. Parking lots for popular hikes, e.g. starting at Jenny Lake, can get filled up by 10am, and you don't want to drive around looking for a parking place. Bring along a picnic lunch for your hike.
Don't feed the animals - The chipmunks and golden mantled ground squirrels know they're cute, and will even pose for you, but don't feed them. Chips and snacks are bad for many of the animals here.
Don't get too close to the wildlife - A mother moose and her calf grazing by the side of the river is an amazing sight, but don't get too close; a mother moose that thinks her calf is threatened is a dangerous animal and moose can kick and charge. Use your binoculars instead and stay at a safe distance.