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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Rocky Mountains, USA

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Grand Teton

Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is the closest and most convenient. Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) is another option, and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) offers more flight options further away.

Airport Details

  • JAC: Located within Grand Teton National Park, direct flights from major U.S. Cities.
  • IDA: ~2 hours west of Grand Teton, potentially more affordable flights.
  • SLC: ~4.5-5 hours south, major international hub with extensive options.

Airlines & Transfers

Major U.S. Carriers serve these airports. International travelers typically connect through a major U.S. Gateway.

Flight & Transfer Information

  • Airlines to JAC: American, Delta, United, Alaska Airlines (seasonal).
  • Flight prices to JAC are highest during peak summer and winter seasons.
  • Transfers from JAC: Rental cars are highly advisable. Taxis/ride-shares and some hotel shuttles are available.

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Airport Facilities & Considerations

Jackson Hole Airport JAC

  • Small airport with basic services (rental car counters, restaurant, gift shop, restrooms, Wi-Fi).
  • Compact size allows easy navigation.
  • Book flights to JAC far in advance for peak season travel; prices increase closer to dates.
  • Some hotels in Jackson and Teton Village offer shuttles.

Idaho Falls IDA & Salt Lake City SLC

  • Larger airports with extensive facilities (multiple dining, shops, lounges).
  • Rental cars are the main transfer option to Grand Teton.
  • The drive from either airport is scenic and part of the experience.
  • Shoulder seasons may have fewer direct flights but potentially lower fares.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing the U.S. From JAC beyond standard airline ticket taxes, which are included in your fare.

Departure Procedures

Arrive at JAC at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights. JAC can experience busy periods, so allow ample time for rental car return and security screening. Standard TSA procedures apply.

Airport Facilities

JAC has limited facilities beyond security: a small restaurant, gift shop, and restrooms. Plan to purchase food or beverages before security or bring them with you if specific items are needed.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is the most common and highly advisable way to explore Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Public transport within the parks is minimal, making a personal vehicle an useful tool for flexibility and access to viewpoints and trailheads.

Requirements & Tips

  • A valid driver's license is needed; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable if your license is not in English.
  • Minimum driving age for car rentals is typically 21, with surcharges for drivers under 25.
  • Gas stations are limited within the park; fill your tank before entering.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads within Grand Teton National Park are generally well-maintained, but specific hazards exist.

Safety Awareness

  • Wildlife: Animals frequently cross roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and remain alert.
  • Seasonal Closures: Many park roads close seasonally due to snow. Check current status.
  • Parking: Can be challenging at popular trailheads during peak season; arrive early.

Train & Bus Connections

Direct train and long-distance bus options to Grand Teton National Park are limited.

Connectivity Insights

  • No direct train service to Grand Teton National Park.
  • Closest Amtrak station is in Salt Lake City, requiring onward travel by bus or rental car.
  • Limited long-distance bus options to Jackson, Wyoming (e.g., Greyhound to Idaho Falls or Salt Lake City with onward connection).

Winter Driving & Laws

Special considerations for driving in winter and general road laws.

Winter & General Driving

  • Winter driving calls for vehicles equipped for snow and ice (4x4 or AWD with snow tires/chains often recommended).
  • Road work can occur during summer, causing delays. Plan for extra time.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced within the park for safety and wildlife protection.

Not Applicable Modes of Transport

  • Sea/River Arrivals: Grand Teton National Park is landlocked; sea or river arrivals are not applicable.
  • Ferry Services and Cruise Ports: Not applicable for reaching the park.
  • Immigration Procedures at Seaports: Not applicable to Grand Teton travel.
  • Border Crossing Information: Not applicable, as the park is entirely within the contiguous United States.
  • Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Limited availability, not a main mode for park navigation.
  • Specialty Vehicle Options (tuk-tuks, jeepneys, etc.): Not found or used in Grand Teton.

Public Transportation

START Bus Overview

Public transportation in the Grand Teton area is limited, mainly serving the town of Jackson and its immediate surroundings. The START Bus (Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit) is the main public bus system.

Service Details

  • Serves Jackson, Teton Village, and the National Elk Refuge.
  • Offers limited seasonal service into Grand Teton National Park itself.
  • Vehicles are generally wheelchair accessible.

Routes & Fares

hubs for the START Bus system. Do not rely solely on public transport for comprehensive park exploration.

Hubs & Ticketing

  • Main Hubs: Jackson Town Square, Teton Village.
  • Park Service Stops: Limited stops seasonally at Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center and near Jenny Lake/String Lake.
  • Ticketing: Cash fares on board (exact change) or multi-ride passes available in Jackson.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are available in Jackson and Teton Village. Availability within the park is very limited due to sparse cell service.

Walking Routes

The town of Jackson is very walkable. The park offers dedicated multi-use pathways connecting areas like Moose, Jenny Lake, and Teton Village for pedestrians and cyclists.

Bicycle Rentals

Bicycle rentals are found in Jackson, Teton Village, and some park concessionaires. Over 15 miles of paved pathways exist for cycling.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Various companies in Jackson offer guided bus tours of Grand Teton (and Yellowstone) National Parks. These are typically full-day tours, including wildlife viewing, scenic overlooks, and lunch stops. They offer a convenient way to see highlights without driving.

Water-Based Options

  • Jenny Lake Boating: Shuttle boat service across Jenny Lake, reducing hiking distance to Hidden Falls.
  • Jackson Lake Cruises: Scenic cruises on Jackson Lake, dinner cruises available.
  • Float Trips: Commercial guided non-whitewater float trips on the Snake River for scenic views and wildlife.

Aerial Tram & Accessibility

The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram is a major nearby attraction for stunning views.

Unique Access & Inclusivity

  • Jackson Hole Aerial Tram: At Teton Village, access to Rendezvous Mountain for hiking/skiing with panoramic views.
  • Accessibility Services: Visitor centers and picnic areas offer accessible facilities (paved pathways, restrooms, parking).
  • Some scenic viewpoints are wheelchair-accessible.

Safety & Navigation Tips

Public Transport Tips

Check current schedules. Have exact change or pass ready. A personal vehicle is far more flexible for park exploration.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Safety

Confirm driver and vehicle details match app information. Share trip details with a friend for added safety.

Driving Laws & Safety

U.S. Driving laws apply; drive on the right. Seatbelt use is mandatory. Speed limits are enforced. Rent a 4x4 or AWD vehicle for winter or unpaved roads.

Winter Transport Highlight

In winter, horse-drawn sleigh rides on the National Elk Refuge offer an unique way to see thousands of elk.