People will travel from all over the world to visit Yellowstone National Park - the first established National Park in America. However, not as many will consider a National Park located less than 2 hours south of Yellowstone; Grand Teton National Park. This park features mountains, lakes, biking, and a charming town right outside of the adventure. The park has just as much to offer as Yellowstone (if not more), and the crowds are much, much smaller!
Get moving: Along the lake shore of Jackson Lake sits the Lakeshore Trail. Only 2.1 miles in length, this trail is very accessible for all skill levels. The trail views include a marina, pines, and the Teton mountain range in the backdrop.
See the Sun: Signal Mountain - Just south of Jackson Lake Dam is a curvy and road that climbs towards the sky. At the top, hikers will find a summit, complete with views of plains, the Tetons, Snake River, etc. The mountain is aptly named for a communications tower that stands tall beside the parking lot at the top.
Gram Worth: Mormon Row - There's a great chance that you've already seen the iconic Mormon Row Barns. The historical area includes houses and barns, and the preservation pays homage to a generation of folks roughing it on the Western Frontier. The land looks as though it hasn't been touched, and it appears that the lens in which you see hasn't changed in hundreds of years.
Soul Recharge: Snake River - The picturesque river meanders throughout the park. Smooth, rounded rocks line the bed of the icy and relatively shallow river. As you enter the park, the river serves as the foreground, and the Grand Teton mountain range provides the backdrop. Be sure to pull off at one of the rest stops along the way, grab a seat along the bank, and let life pass on by. One of the most well known pictures of Grand Teton (taken by Ansel Adams) showcases this famous river.
Best Drive: 191 to 26 (Jackson to Moran) - This is the best route to experience the park. Start in Jackson, WY - a charming western town. Grab a bite, shop in the local stores, or take a break at Jackson Town Square. Once you leave Jackson, start the drive down 191 towards the park. The drive creates the perfect check list: Mormon Row, Snake River Overlook, Jackson Lake, and Jenny Lake, all in order! The route runs parallel to the Snake River, and offers unparalleled views.