
Winter in Grand Teton National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience its breathtaking beauty in a serene and captivating setting. Whether you enjoy skiing or prefer peaceful winter hikes, there are activities for everyone. In this blog, we will explore five great ways to enjoy winter in Grand Teton.
1. SKI, SNOWSHOE, OR WALK ON THE GROOMED TETON PARK ROAD
Winter is in full swing at Grand Teton National Park. For the twelfth consecutive year, the Foundation is partnering with Grand Teton to groom Teton Park Road three times a week (conditions permitting), allowing visitors unparalleled access to the 14-mile stretch of road between Taggart Lake parking and Signal Mountain Lodge. Winter travelers can go by foot, snowshoe, or ski and enjoy the splendor of winter in the Tetons. The region offers a variety of terrain choices and scenic destinations from half day trips to full day tours—there’s a little something for everyone!
There are three locations available for parking - Taggart Lake Trailhead, Cottonwood Creek Picnic Area, and the gate at the north end of Teton Park Road near Signal Mountain Lodge.
If you are planning to bring your furry friend along, they are welcome to join you on Teton Park Road, but it's important to keep them on a leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted in the backcountry and owners must clean up after their pets for the safety of wildlife, visitors, and other pets.
Teton Park Road will be groomed through mid-to-late March (conditions permitting). Always remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, warm layers, eye protection, and sunscreen, and be sure to check the weather before you go. It is essential that you know how to use your gear and make wise terrain choices while recreating in the winter. See you in the park!

2. SNOWSHOE WITH A RANGER
Are you interested in winter ecology or snow science? Would you like to explore the park during the winter season but need some guidance? Join Grand Teton National Park for a snowshoe hike led by an interpretive ranger, which is the perfect way to get acquainted with winter in the park and snowshoeing.
The Ranger-guided snowshoe hikes are available on Tuesdays and Fridays from 1:15 PM to 3:30 PM. The distance typically ranges from one to one-and-a-half miles, with little to no elevation gain. There is no cost to sign up, but reservations are required.
RESERVATIONS: Call 307-739-3399 from Monday to Friday between 10 AM and 4 PM MST.
Grand Teton provides large, wooden, historic snowshoes. If you prefer to use your own snowshoes, feel free to bring them!

3. ICE FISHING
Looking for a unique winter activity? Head to Grand Teton National Park for ice fishing. Popular spots include Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake, and Phelps Lake. Jackson Lake is easily accessible, while Jenny Lake and Phelps Lake may require snowshoes or cross-country skis to access.
Once you find your fishing spot, you’ll need an ice fishing auger to create a hole. Bring ice-fishing rods, reels, tackle, a lawn chair, snacks, and warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Each angler is allowed a maximum of two rods or poles. Lines may have up to three single hook devices attached, but no more. Hand lines, set lines, poles, or tip ups when ice fishing are legal with the angler present. Be sure to have your Wyoming State fishing license and the necessary equipment.
For more information and regulations please visit: wgfd.wyo.gov/fishing-boating

3. BACKCOUNTRY SKIING
Backcountry skiing in Grand Teton National Park offers an exhilarating escape into one of the most stunning alpine environments in the United States. With its rugged terrain, breathtaking views, and deep powder, the park attracts skiing enthusiasts worldwide.
Skiers and snowboarders must take responsibility for their safety through good judgment, preparation, and awareness. Ensure you're in good physical condition and choose routes suitable for your skill level. Be vigilant about hypothermia and frostbite, which can develop quickly in cold weather. Always travel with a group, provide a detailed itinerary to friends or family, and stick to your plan. Remember that permits are required for overnight trips in the backcountry.
If traveling in the backcountry during winter, check the local avalanche forecast and avoid known avalanche paths. Skiers and climbers in avalanche terrain should carry and know how to use an avalanche beacon, probe pole, and shovel. For current avalanche conditions, please visit the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center Backcountry Avalanche Forecast
The following businesses are licensed by the National Park Service to provide Backcountry Skiing courses:
Exum Mountain Guides
Jackson Hole Mountain Guides
Teton Backcountry Guides

4. CAMP AT COLTER BAY
If you're looking to have a winter camping adventure, you'll be happy to know that primitive camping is allowed in the Colter Bay Visitor Center parking lot until April 15th. For just $5 per night, you can enjoy close access to Jackson Lake, where you can do some ice fishing, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. If you're interested in camping in the backcountry, call the park's permit office at 307-739-3309 on weekdays or the Teton Interagency Dispatch Center at 307-739-3301 on weekends to get your backcountry camping permit. Backcountry camping permits are available 24 hours in advance.

5. EXPERIENCE GRANITE CANYON TRAILHEAD
The Granite Canyon Trailhead has reopened to the public, providing visitors an improved experience while snowshoeing, skiing, or enjoying the scenic Moose-Wilson Corridor. The trailhead now includes an expanded parking lot that can accommodate more vehicles, improved accessibility, vault toilets, a bench, and an information kiosk. New signage has been added to enhance wayfinding and removable bollards and snow poles have been installed to improve visitor safety and snowplow operations. Access to the trailhead is available from the south through the Granite Canyon Entrance via Hwy 390.
RECREATE SAFELY AND RESPONSIBLY
Be a steward for bighorn sheep and other wildlife who survive brutal winter conditions in the Tetons. Stress from human disturbances like skiing and snowboarding can push these iconic animals towards starvation. Protect wildlife by observing closures, avoiding bighorn sheep winter zones, and giving all wildlife plenty of space (100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other wildlife). Visit go.nps.gov/tetonclosures for more information and see the entire Teton Range bighorn sheep winter zones and closure map at tetonsheep.org.