Teton National Park

As a self proclaimed trekker, Teton National Park felt like a huge playground just waiting to be explored. Driving through Wyoming consisted of many hours on a two lane road surrounded by grasslands. We saw towns so infrequently that I wasn’t surprised to discover that Wyoming is the least populated of the 50 states. As we reached Teton National Park we traded the grassy planes for curvy mountain roads. After 11 hours of driving we barely made it to the park before sunset. We camped outside of the park at a free campsite we found on ioverlander. The view of the Grand Tetons mountain range was stunning. Here are the GPS coordinates if you want to stay at this free camp spot (43.76289,-110.55461).

Teton National Park is full of trails, lakes, waterfalls and wild animals. The National Park Service website as well as the maps you receive when you pay your entrance fee will help you plan your visit. One could easily spend weeks camping out and exploring this park. Unlike most of my hiking excursions abroad, a car is definitely necessary. Perhaps in non-coronavirus times one could hitchhike but the natural wonders are spaced out throughout the park. Each day we would drive over two hours while getting to different trails and then back to our campsite. 

Tips for First Time National Park Goers

First word of advice on camping in Wyoming is to bring warm clothing. I was there the first week of July and bundled up inside of my sleeping bag I wore 6 pairs of socks, under armor, three sweatshirts, and a hat and gloves.

Most campsites had designated fire pits so if you see fallen branches on the ground it could be in your benefit to collect them for later. Some dry paper for kindling and a lighter should also be on your packing list.

Our second night in the park we decided to stay at a campsite inside of the park. This was an unnecessary expense. Not only did it not reduce driving time throughout the day, but it also cost us $31. Amenities like a toilet and bench were provided but the free campsites outside of the park are perfectly acceptable. 

Campsites inside the park disappear fast during the summer. We were inside the park by 8:30am and many campsites were already full. Arrive early if you are determined to be inside the park during peak season.

Many of the attractions were technically outside of the National Park ticket checking station. If you simply want to see the Teton range from Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher Landing or Antelope Road you could get away with it without paying for a parking pass.

There is a lot of important information about camping in bear country that you can read here. Make sure to have all food locked in a designated bear box. Also hike with bear spray, wear bells or be in a group of 3 or more.

Western Wyoming is the most beautiful place I’ve yet to discover in the United States. I’d highly urge anybody traveling the USA to check it out. Here is a video of my time at Teton to convince you of its visually stimulating landscapes!