Winter is a magical time of year to visit the area of Grand Teton National Park. Some areas of the Park are closed during the winter to protect wildlife, but the vast majority of the Park is open and available to explore. Be sure to check with local Park Service Personnel before taking off on any adventure during a Grand Teton National Park winter.
Grand Teton winter activities available during your trip include:
Nearly all of Grand Teton National Park is managed as wilderness area. During the winter the same trails that served hikers and backpackers in the summer, lead cross-country skiers through a vast white winter wonderland.
Unlike Yellowstone, snowmobiling is not allowed in many areas within Grand Teton National Park. Make sure to check with park officials. Snowmobiling is allowed east of the park near Togwotee Pass, offering a number of trails and backcountry areas.
Enjoy the winter scenic wonders and wildlife of a Grand Teton winter in the warmth and comfort of a snowcoach. A snowcoach is a converted van that is utilized for over snow travel.
Many companies and guides offer dog sled tours in nearby National Forest land. The “musher” stands at the back of the sled, handling the team of dogs, while you sit in blanketed comfort on the front.
Take a horse drawn sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge or enjoy a dinner sleigh ride to a rustic cabin for an elegant dining experience.
Strap on some snowshoes and head out to enjoy a winter hike. If you are unfamiliar with either the activity or the terrain, it is best to enjoy this activity with a guide.
Children and the child in all of us enjoys bouncing over the top of the snow on top of an inflated donut shaped sphere. You can enjoy snow tubing at Snow King Ski Area and Grand Targhee Resort.
The Teton County Parks and Recreation Department maintains one indoor and one outdoor ice rink.
Grand Teton National Park provides free ranger-led snowshoe hikes (snowshoes included) several times a week, from late December to March (weather and conditions permitting).