Grand Teton Scenic Drive Start
4.9(136)google
4.9(241)yelp
MountainRoad TripScenic Lookout
Overview
The Grand Teton Scenic Drive Start marks the historic entryway into one of the country's most legendary mountain valley roadways. Beginning right outside the town of Jackson, this driving experience introduces travelers to dramatic vistas where the valley sagebrush opens up to showcase the sudden vertical rise of the glacier-cut mountain range, setting the tone for an epic road trip through pristine western landscapes.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1-3 hours
Best TimeBest from June to October when the entire loop is open. Driving from north to south in the late afternoon (after 4:00 PM) is ideal, as the setting sun fully illuminates the eastern granite faces of the Teton Range, maximizing visual depth.
Getting ThereThe scenic route traditionally begins at either Moran Junction or Moose Junction. Enter Teton Park Road (the inner park loop) from either point to begin the stunning 42-mile scenic driving loop.
Travel Tips
- The inner Teton Park Road is completely closed to motorized vehicles from November 1 to April 30 annually (open only to hiking/cross-country skiing). Winter drivers must use the outer US-191 highway; plan routes based on seasonal closures.
- Entering the scenic loop via Moose Entrance requires park admission, which triggers miles of traffic queues from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM in summer. Download your digital interagency pass or QR code to your phone in advance, or pass through before 8:00 AM.
- Signal Mountain Lodge operates the only full-service gas station along the 42-mile scenic loop, with higher pricing than town. Fuel up completely in Jackson before entering, and carry snacks and water; most scenic pullouts feature only vault toilets.
Reviews
Positive
- This is a dream scenic drive; every mile offers grand, sweeping panoramic views of the continuous Grand Teton range.
- The road is planned with numerous spacious pullouts, making it easy for tourists to pull over safely at any time to take photos.
- The road pavement quality is excellent, the two-lane highway is spacious, and the signs and speed limits are very clear.
- Self-driving offers immense flexibility, allowing you to hit all the park's iconic landmarks at your own comfortable pace.
Heads up
- During peak daytime traffic, drivers frequently slow down abruptly or slam on brakes in the middle of the road to view wildlife, causing rear-end risks.
- The park entrance stations on this drive suffer from heavy delays; especially in the morning, lines of cars often back up for miles.
- There are zero gas stations along the drive; if you don't fill up before heading out, you will feel very anxious halfway through the park.
- Because large animals like moose and deer frequently cross, the drive has zero streetlights at night, making night driving very hazardous.