Adventure Journal: Cycling in Teton Park

Summer is a lovely time to experience biking in Grand Teton National Park. If you are looking for a family-friendly excursion away from your vehicles that is supplemented with breath-taking views of the Teton Range, riding a bicycle is a wonderful way to accomplish this goal.

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Cycling on the pathway.

The possibilities are almost endless for enjoyable rides within the park. A multi-use paved pathway (no vehicles allowed) extends from the town of Jackson, north to Antelope Flats Road, and through the park from Moose Junction to South Jenny Lake. You can ride along the Gros Ventre Road which heads northeast to the small town of Kelly. You can also access a scenic 7-mile loop from South Jenny Lake Junction to North Jenny Lake Junction and back, visiting String Lake along the way. Take a look at this map which shows possible cycling routes in and adjacent to the park.

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Elk use the pathway too.

Always keep in mind that you might encounter wildlife as you will be riding through a variety of habitats where they live. Be prepared by staying aware, controlling your speed, and carrying and knowing how to use bear spray. Never feed, approach OR harass any wildlife—especially large mammals including moose, bison, and bears. No pets are allowed on the pathway except for guide-dogs used for the sole purpose of aiding a person with a physical disability.

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Stay alert when riding on the Gros Ventre Road. Photo courtesy of Roger Smith

The pathway has helped make biking a safe activity in the park. However, always use caution when cycling as some roads have very narrow shoulders or lack them altogether. With this in mind, always ride single file (this is the law in Teton Park) on the right side of the road, wear a helmet, don’t wear ear buds or headphones, use hand signals, and be alert for other vehicles. Bikes are allowed on the pathway from dawn until dusk only and never on trails or in backcountry areas. Learn more about cycling rules and regulations in Grand Teton from jhcycling.org.

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Riding single file on the right hand side of the road. Photo courtesy of Forest Dramis, jhcycling.org

Need to rent a bike? There are a number of shops in the town of Jackson that offer rentals on both road and mountain bikes as well as trailers for children. Helmets are usually included in the rental price.

For more information, take a look at this fantastic brochure from Grand Teton National Park.

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