The Perfect 3-5 Day Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, WY Itinerary
So you’re planning a summer trip to Jackson, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park?
Looking for the perfect itinerary for 3, 4, or 5 days? Awesome! You’re gonna love it!
Although Jackson Hole is world-renowned for its fresh powder, downhill and cross-country skiing, the summers in the Grand Tetons are an experience not to be missed.
The Grand Tetons are my favorite mountain range next to the Canadian Rockies.
There is just something about them that makes me want to keep snapping pictures long after the rest of the family has put a kibosh on pulling the car over and stopping.
But eventually even I have to give in to empty stomachs and full bladders.
If you are lucky enough to visit Grand Teton National Park here’s the perfect 3-5 day itinerary for you based on what we’ve done on our trips and our favorite things to do that we keep repeating…it just never gets old!
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Day 1: Arrive in Jackson, Wyoming
Itinerary : Check out shops and pubs in downtown Jackson and the Antler Arches
Arriving by car or plane into the Jackson Hole area is an experience in itself.
The views are incredible and it just gets better from there!
Interesting fact: Jackson Hole Airport is the only commercial airport in the United States located in a national park.
I recommend renting a car if you don’t have one – trust me you’ll want to get out and explore on your own and schedules can be so hard to keep when you’re having fun.
Whether you are staying in or near Jackson at an Airbnb, one of the area campgrounds, hotels, resorts, or in Teton Village, spend the afternoon/evening walking around downtown Jackson.
There are lots of great shops with handmade items, souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more.
I’m always on the lookout for unusual wine glasses and pottery and Jackson doesn’t disappoint.
You’ll find three visitor centers in Jackson – the Chamber of Commerce, Home Ranch Welcome Center, and Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center – all located in town.
They have information on lodging, restaurants, things to do, park passes, road and weather updates and really great restrooms!
While walking around downtown Jackson, make sure to check out the four famous Antler Arches at Jackson Town Square.
Each arch is located at the corners leading into George Washington Memorial Park and are made up of 10,000-12,000 lbs. of antlers that are naturally shed by elk at the nearby National Elk Refuge.
Dining is another great experience in Jackson.
I recommend visiting the Liberty Burger – delicious food and friendly service –and very accommodating.
They were able to take care of our party of 12 with no problem. FYI- the Bison Liberty Burger is amazing!
Day 2: Grand Teton National Park
Itinerary: Drive through GTNP via Highway 89 and the Teton Park Road.
For your first full day in the area, I recommend starting your itinerary with a visit to the Grand Teton National Park.
It is why you’re here after all!
But don’t forget to visit the Mormon Row Historic District for a beautiful photo op of the famous barns with the Grand Tetons in the background.
For the best experience consider downloading this audio app (GyPSy Guide –Yellowstone/Grand Teton $14.99) that narrates the points of interest as you approach –based on your phone’s GPS.
It’s definitely worth it –full of informative tidbits and tips that make the drive all the more interesting.
When entering the park from the south, take N. Moose Wilson Road (aka Hwy 390) just west of Jackson.
It links up with Teton Park Road in Moose.
Check out the map below to see this driving loop.
The loop is a beautiful drive off the main highway that’s always a great place to view wildlife…especially moose!
While there are restaurants and snacks you can find along the way, I recommend bringing a picnic lunch.
There are several amazingly beautiful picnic areas along the route that beat any table service in my book.
For dinner, check out the Silver Dollar Bar & Grill in Jackson.
Their elk burgers are out of this world and their house red is delicious!
Day 3: Explore the area on foot
Itinerary: Hike Jenny Lake Trail to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
If you’re itchin’ to get into the national park and truly experience it on foot – join the club! This hike is moderate in difficulty – mostly because the path is uneven and has short inclines.
It’s 2 miles from the Jenny Lake Marina to the falls and if you’re up for it, Inspiration Point is another 1.8 miles (round trip) beyond that.
Inspiration Point is almost all uphill but the views at the top are soooo worth it! Take a look!
Hidden Falls at Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park. Photo courtesy of The Traveling Dragonfly.
This hike is pretty popular so don’t expect to be the only ones on the trail, but it is a good introduction to hiking in the area and can be done in a few hours.
Great for kids and a picnic at the falls provides the perfect excuse to sit under the pine trees and enjoy a well-deserved break with a breathtaking view.
If you’ve worked up an appetite and are up for a fine dining experience after your hike, check out the Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room.
This four diamond restaurant is located in a 1930’s cabin and serves 5 courses -guaranteed to fill the stomach of any hungry hiker!
Reservations are required.
Day 4: Experience Grand Teton Mountain Resort & Teton Village
Itinerary: Breakfast at Persephone Bakery, Gondola ride to top of Jackson Mountain, Dinner at Piste Mountain Bistro
The Persephone Bakery on Broadway in Jackson is a must visit.
Their food is delicious especially their pastries, and they have a great selection.
If the weather is good, enjoy your meal under the trees on their deck.
Try their Chai Latte with a Cinnamon Brioche….yumm!
Afterwards, visit Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village and take a ride up the mountain on the Bridger Gondola (12 minute ride) while enjoying the views of the valley. (Check for weather and gondola operating times.)
Bridger Gondola or Hike to the top…Your choice!
If the gondola is not your cup of tea, you can reach the top by hiking the 5 mile Wildflower Trail.
And if you want the best of both experiences, take the free gondola ride back down the mountain!
At the top you’ll find three restaurants, the Off Piste Market, The Deck @ Piste, and the Piste Mountain Bistro.
My favorite is the Deck @ Piste where you can order drinks and appetizers on the deck and enjoy amazing views. Their food is good and reasonably priced. (Check for summer operating dates & times and reservations are required for Piste Mountain Bistro.)
If you’d rather, stop at one of the stores in town (or get some take out from Persephone’s) and have your own picnic at the top.
Be sure to get your tickets for the gondola online and save $7 per ticket (gondola ride is free after 5pm.)
Day 5: Create Your Own Adventure
Itinerary: Experience the Grand Tetons by planning your favorite outdoor activity!
With so many things to do and see in Grand Teton National Park, what better way to spend the last day of your itinerary than to create your own adventure!
You can rent kayaks and paddle on Jenny, Leigh, String, and Jackson Lakes.
Fish for trout at any of the lakes or streams.
Just make sure you have a Wyoming fishing license and check the area regulations.
There’s also white water rafting, horseback riding, biking, golfing, camping, and guided tours.
If relaxing and pampering yourself is more appealing, the Four Seasons Resort in Teton Village has a full service spa that is guaranteed to melt your stress away.
Or, find a secluded spot and enjoy Mother Nature at her best.
If you’re up for it, the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park is just a little over an hour from Jackson and Old Faithful is just over two hours.
Make a day of it and check out America’s first national park!
Whatever you do, enjoy yourself, make some memories and embrace your inner dragonfly!
And if you’re looking for more national park posts, check out 7 Places Not to Miss in Olympic National Park!
Comment below on your favorite thing to do in Grand Teton National Park. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone visiting for the first time? I can’t wait to read your comments!
