How to Spend 2 Days in Grand Teton National Park: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

How to Spend 2 Days in Grand Teton National Park

If you're dreaming of sweeping mountain views, alpine lakes, iconic wildlife, and endless scenic drives, then Grand Teton National Park is the place for you. It’s the kind of place that will steal your heart in an instant. We had the pleasure of spending two days exploring this breathtaking area and want to share our experience along with some tips and tricks we learned along the way! This 2-day itinerary is designed to help you hit many of the highlights without feeling rushed, whether you’re squeezing in a short trip or adding Grand Teton onto a bigger western road trip. From peaceful sunrises to epic hikes and some seriously good food in nearby Jackson, here’s exactly how to spend a perfect weekend in Grand Teton National Park!

⬇️ Check out our “Weekend in Grand Teton National Park” travel vlog for more info! ⬇️

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For the best tours and experiences in and around Grand Teton National Park, check out GetYourGuide!

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Where to stay:

There are many options when it comes to lodging in the area, but there aren't many budget-friendly options, so here are some solid mid-budget properties to choose from:

• Anvil Hotel

• The Virginian Lodge

• The Alpine House

• Four Winds Motel

• Cache House Hostel

Or, use the map below to find the perfect stay for you!

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Know Before You Go

Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early fall are ideal, with September often offering the fewest crowds and beautiful fall colors.

Getting Around: You’ll need a car to explore the park easily. Scenic drives are a huge part of the experience, but if biking is more your thing, there are more than 56 miles of paved pathways that link the town of Jackson to Teton Village and Grand Teton National Park.

Park Fees: Grand Teton charges an entrance fee (currently $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass) or is included with an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass.

What to Pack: Bring layers. Mornings and evenings can get chilly even in the summer, and afternoons can get quite warm. Also, pack bear spray, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water. Check out our Outdoor Essentials Amazon list for ideas!

Wildlife Safety: Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife; avoid feeding or touching wildlife; and stay on designated trails. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

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Day 1: Sunrise Views, Iconic Hikes,

and a Classic Jackson Night

Morning: Sunrise at Mormon Row Historic District

Your first day starts bright and early, and trust us, it will be so worth it. Grab some caffeine and a quick breakfast to-go from Cowboy Coffee Co., then make your way to Mormon Row to catch the sunrise. The famous TA Moulton Barn framed by the Tetons during golden hour is absolutely magical. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before sunrise to snag parking and watch the first light hit the peaks. It’s one of the most iconic photo spots in the entire park and well worth the pre-dawn alarm clock.

Mid-Morning: Jenny Lake Adventure

Next, head over to Jenny Lake Visitors Center and start one of the most classic hikes in Grand Teton: the journey to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and Cascade Canyon. There is one little dilemma… The trailhead for this hike is on the other side of Jenny Lake, so you’ll have to decide how you get there, and you have two options. 1) Hike the ≈2.4-mile one way scenic Jenny Lake Trail around the lake, or 2) Take the shuttle boat to save time and energy ($20 round-trip or $12 one way). We visited in the shoulder season (mid-September), and the shuttle was operating on a limited schedule, so we ended up hiking the ≈2.4-mile Jenny Lake Trail one way and taking the shuttle back.

We recommend hiking the lake trail if you’re up for it. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and less crowded. Once you reach the Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point, and Cascade Canyon trailhead, it’s a short and easy hike to Hidden Falls (≈0.5 miles one way), followed by a climb up to Inspiration Point (≈0.7 miles past Hidden Falls) for sweeping views over the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue a bit farther into Cascade Canyon (≈1 mile past Inspiration Point). This part of the trail offers jaw-dropping views of Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, and Grand Teton itself, and the crowds thin out the further you go. The total hike distance if you choose to hike the Jenny Lake Trail one way and take the shuttle one way (like we did) comes out to roughly 7 miles and is 100% worth it!

Afternoon: Scenic Lunch

After your hike, head to Jackson Lake Lodge for a well-deserved lunch at the Blue Heron Lounge! Even if you’re not staying at the lodge, it’s a must-visit spot with the lobby’s panoramic windows showcasing unbeatable views of the Tetons. Grab a meal, recharge, and enjoy the scenery.

Pro Tip: If the weather is nice, grab a seat on the outdoor patio for panoramic views and wildlife spotting

Late Afternoon: Serene Views

With a full belly and tired legs, make your way to Schwabacher Landing for some relaxation. This peaceful river spot is perfect for an afternoon stroll or just soaking in the views.

Tip: If you want perfect reflection photos, early morning or sunset is better, but it’s still beautiful anytime.

Evening: Explore Jackson

Wrap up your first day with some downtown Jackson fun. Grab dinner at Hand Fire Pizza (trust us, it’s delicious) or check out Jackson Drug for burgers and a must-try Huckleberry Milkshake. The Merry Piglet’s is another popular spot in town serving Mexican fare. We tried it during our visit, but I’m going to be honest… It was less than impressive. That said, don’t just take our word for it… If you’re craving a Mexican meal, give it a try and let us know what you think! The carne asada and salsa verde were the stars of the show during our visit.

After dinner, wander around the town square, and if you’re feeling up for it, pop into the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. It’s touristy but iconic, with real saddles for barstools!

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Day 2: Alpine Lakes, Scenic Drive,

and Wildlife Spotting

Morning: Fuel Up for Adventure

Start your second day strong with breakfast at D.O.G. in Jackson. Their breakfast burritos are legendary! Big, hearty, and perfect for fueling up before another active day in the park.

Morning Hike: Taggart Lake Loop

After breakfast, head back into the park and tackle the Taggart Lake Loop, a moderate ≈3.8-mile hike with about 400 feet of elevation gain. This trail is a fan favorite for a reason. You’ll wind through open meadows and shaded forests before reaching the crystal-clear waters of Taggart Lake, with the Tetons towering dramatically behind. It’s a perfect mix of effort and reward, and if you start early, you might catch mirror-like reflections on the lake.

Midday: Scenic Drive Through the Park (Part 1)

After your hike, start the first half of the 42-mile Grand Teton Scenic Loop Drive, following a clockwise route through some of the park’s best sights!

Notable Stops:

• Teton Glacier Turnout: Take in views of Teton Glacier tucked between rugged peaks.

• Jenny Lake Scenic Drive: A peaceful one-way loop with can’t-miss stops:

  • Cathedral Group Turnout for views of Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot

  • Jenny Lake Overlook for sweeping views of Jenny Lake framed by rugged peaks

• Signal Mountain Summit: Drive up to panoramic views over Jackson Hole and the surrounding mountains.

• Jackson Lake Dam: Make a quick stop to admire the Snake River spilling out of Jackson Lake, with mountains rising in the distance.

Lunch at Jackson Lake Lodge… Again.

After exploring the first half of the scenic drive, take a break for lunch at Jackson Lake Lodge… Again. Whether you opt for a full sit-down meal or something quicker at the café, it’s the perfect (and most convenient) mid-day refuel, and as you know from coming here yesterday, the giant picture windows overlooking the Tetons make it feel like you’re dining inside a postcard.

Another good option for lunch would be to pack a cooler and picnic at any one of the countless scenic viewpoints/turnouts. If you prefer this option, there’s an Albertsons in Jackson where you can stock up on all your picnic needs before heading into the park.

Afternoon: Scenic Drive Through the Park (Part 2)

After lunch, continue the second half of your scenic drive and wrap up your Grand Teton adventure:

• Oxbow Bend Overlook: One of the most iconic views in the park. If the water is calm, you’ll see a perfect reflection of Mount Moran — and maybe spot moose or eagles too.

• Snake River Overlook: Made famous by Ansel Adams’ legendary photo. It’s a quick stop but absolutely worth it.

• Moose-Wilson Road: A beautiful, winding drive through dense forest. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, and other wildlife, especially early or late in the day.

• Chapel of the Transfiguration: End your scenic loop at this charming historic chapel with a picture-perfect view of the Tetons behind the altar window.

Evening: Celebrate Your Trip with Dinner in Jackson

After wrapping up your scenic drive at the Chapel of the Transfiguration, head back into Jackson for a well-earned final dinner. Here are a few spots we recommend to end your Grand Teton adventure on a delicious note:

• Jackson Drug: A casual and classic choice for hearty burgers, sandwiches, and their famous Huckleberry Milkshake (seriously, don’t skip it).

• Liberty Burger: If you're craving a great burger and a laid-back vibe.

• Hand Fire Pizza: If you missed it earlier in the trip, their wood-fired pizzas are fantastic, and the historic theater building makes for a fun atmosphere.

Optional Late Night: End with a Nightcap

If you still have a little energy left after dinner, cap off your Grand Teton weekend with a night out in Jackson.

You’ve got a few great options depending on your vibe:

• Million Dollar Cowboy Bar: The most famous bar in Jackson, with saddle barstools and live country music. Definitely touristy, but it’s iconic and fun for a quick stop.

• Silver Dollar Bar & Grill: A more local-feeling historic bar located inside the Wort Hotel, with a famous silver dollar-inlaid bar top and often live music.

• Saddle Rock Saloon & Speakeasy: A hidden gem in downtown Jackson with a cozy speakeasy vibe. Great for craft cocktails and a more intimate atmosphere.

• Roadhouse Brewing Co. Pub & Eatery: A laid-back craft brewery if you’re in the mood for great local beer and a casual setting.

• Snake River Brewing: Another fantastic local brewery with award-winning beers and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for ending the night on a chill note.

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Final Tips for Visiting Grand Teton National Park

• Start early to beat the crowds and catch the best light for photography.

  
  

• Dress in layers — mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer.

  
  

• Always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

  
  

• Take your time. Even though Grand Teton is smaller than nearby Yellowstone, there’s so much beauty packed into every turn.

• If you can handle two early mornings, consider catching sunrise at both Mormon Row and Schwabacher Landing — you won’t regret it!

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Grand Teton National Park is one of those places that will leave you wanting more. In just two days, you’ll hike among alpine lakes, witness jaw-dropping sunrises, spot incredible wildlife, and experience some of the best scenery the U.S. has to offer. We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time and inspires you to plan a trip you’ll never forget. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Instagram for more travel inspo!

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