Best Places to Photograph Grand Teton National Park

There are so many amazing places to photograph Grand Teton National Park to capture the jagged peaks of the mountains complimented by the surrounding landscape and wildlife.

Use this Grand Teton National Park guide and the list of photo spots below to create your itinerary.

Best places to photograph Grand Teton

We share the best photo spots at Grand Teton for sunrise and sunset, where to photograph wildlife, and recommended camera gear for taking amazing photos at Grand Teton National Park!

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Camera Gear for Landscape Photography

  • Tripod: take a look at these compact and lightweight travel tripods!
  • Camera Bag: protect your camera from sand and water → We use Lowepro camera backpacks for outdoor photography.
  • Neutral density filter: to compensate for variance of light you’ll need to use a neutral density filter. → Check out the Kase magnetic filters we use!
  • Camera cleaning kit: remove dust or water that WILL get on your lens. NOTE: this is not for cleaning the sensor.  
  • Memory cards: purchase name brand memory cards since you’re trusting your images to the card! → We use Lexar and Sandisk!
  • External hard drive: copy photos to a portable external hard drive ‘just in case’. 
  • Headlamp: use when taking sunrise and sunset photos!

Camera Gear at B&H Photo

camera accessories

A Photo Tour of Grand Teton National Park

Take a visual tour through Grand Teton National Park to see the stunning landscape and wildlife you’ll find in the park!

Grand Teton Photo Spots Map

Use the map of Grand Teton photo spots to navigate through the park.

Grand Teton photography map

Photographing the Seasons at Grand Teton

The different seasons at the park provide an added element to your photos of the Tetons.

  • Grand Teton in the Fall: there’s an explosion of bright colors on the trees, and the wildlife is active getting ready for winter.

No matter what time of year you visit, there are endless opportunities to photograph nature at its best.

grand-teton-fall-colors
Fall colors at Grand Teton National Park.

Best Photo Spots at Grand Teton

Check out our list of best photo spots at Grand Teton and download the checklist to print and take with you!

We like to stop at all turnouts along the Grand Teton National Park Scenic Drive – you’ll see stunning views to photograph at every stop!

Oxbow Bend reflection at Grand Teton
Oxbow Bend reflection at Grand Teton

Oxbow Bend

At Oxbow Bend, you want to get the reflection of the Teton mountains in the bend of the Snake River.

The best time to get calm water at Oxbow Bend is usually sunrise/early morning or sunset/evening. If you’re lucky, you’ll have a colorful sky to reflect in the water as well!

We recommend you walk around the area to find different views and perspectives to photograph. We like to capture the view of Oxbow Bend just beyond the parking area. If the water isn’t too high, follow the trails to the water’s edge and take photos along the bank of the river.

At Oxbow Bend, everyone likes to face the Teton mountains hoping to get that perfect reflection in the water. BUT REMEMBER, always be aware of the scene in front of you AND behind you.

Oxbow Bend Snake River sunset reflection at Grand Teton
Oxbow Bend Snake River sunset reflection at Grand Teton

We wonder how many people missed this amazing show of color and reflection in the river behind them!?

PHOTO TIP: When photographing the sunrise or taking sunset photos, keep an eye on all views of the scene so you don’t miss something spectacular!

morning light reflection at Schwabacher landing at Grand Teton by Photo Jeepers
Morning light reflection at Schwabacher landing at Grand Teton

Schwabacher Landing

There are numerous places along the river at Schwabacher Landing to photograph the reflection of the Tetons in the water.

If this is your first time here, we suggest going to the main parking lot at the end of the road first. There are a few areas along the trail that provide excellent reflections of the distant mountains, as long as the water is still.

Grand Teton photo spot at Schwabacher Landing
Grand Teton photo spot at Schwabacher Landing

If the weather doesn’t cooperate and the water is choppy, take advantage of photographing a stunning landscape scene with water, trees and majestic mountains.

To reach the other photo spot at Schwabacher Landing, drive back along the road and turn into the smaller parking area to the right. Walk down to the river and look for various spots where the Tetons reflect into the water.

Schwabacher Landing reflection at Grand Teton
Schwabacher Landing reflection at Grand Teton

Many people stay in the area near the parking lot, but we prefer to walk along the river a bit farther along the river to the other beaver dam that has created a section of calm water.

The morning light right after sunrise is ideal for photography. The soft light makes the mountains and the reflection stand out since the river and surrounding landscape are still in shadow.

We have photographed Schwabacher Landing during the day and at sunset, but feel sunrise is the best since it creates a ‘pop’ of color in the scene.

Grand Teton photography at Snake River Overlook
Grand Teton photography at Snake River Overlook

Snake River Overlook

The Snake River Overlook is the spot where Ansel Adams photographed the bend of the Snake River over 70 years ago, and brought attention to Grand Teton National Park.

The trees have since grown and obstructed the view so you can’t recreate the famous image.

Sunrise and early morning at the Snake River Overlook is the perfect time to take pictures because the soft light on the Teton mountains makes a terrific background element.

The Snake River Overlook is accessible year round so you can take photos here to showcase the different seasons at Grand Teton.

Snake River overlook in the winter at Grand Teton
Snake River overlook in the winter at Grand Teton

The landscape in the spring and summer is lush and green; in the fall the grasses and foliage change color; and in the winter the landscape is a beautiful snow-covered scene.

Moulton Barn at Mormon Row at Grand Teton
Moulton Barn at Mormon Row at Grand Teton

Mormon Row – Moulton Barns

Mormon Row is a popular place for photographers. Some of the most iconic images of Grand Teton National Park are taken here. The historic homesteads here have one of the most scenic backdrops found anywhere in the world!

Mormon Row was established by Mormon settlers in the 1890’s who moved into the Jackson Hole Area from Idaho. There were 27 homesteads established here, and now only 6 homesteads remain standing.

In the 1990’s the cultural value became more apparent and have since been maintained so visitors can appreciate the fascinating past of Jackson Hole.

John Moulton barn at Mormon Row at Grand Teton
John Moulton barn at Mormon Row at Grand Teton

The two iconic barns at Mormon Row are the T.A. Moulton barn and the John Moulton barn. The T.A. Moulton barn (pointed roof) is south of Antelope Flats road, while the John Moulton barn (rounded roof) is to the north.

Grand Teton photo guide optin box

Where to Photograph Wildlife at Grand Teton

PLEASE FOLLOW the guidelines for viewing wildlife at the Grand Teton and listen to the rangers. Bears are emotional, with varied personalities and tolerance levels around their cubs and prey. Give them space.

  • When stopping to view wildlife, pull over in a designated turnout – do not stop on the roadway.
  • Maintain a distance of at least 100 yards.
  • Help keep bears wild and humans safe – Never feed or approach bears!

It’s up to all of us to know how to enjoy nature and be a responsible visitor.

Check out these resources for photographing wildlife:

Two bull moose locking antlers at Grand Teton National Park.
Two bull moose locking antlers at Grand Teton National Park.

Photographing Moose at Grand Teton

Many visitors to Grand Teton National Park hope to see and photograph a moose.

There are a few places we recommend to find and photograph moose at Grand Teton National Park:

  • Gros Ventre Road
  • Gros Ventre Campground
  • Moose Wilson Road
  • Willow Springs

grizzly bear and two cubs at Grand Teton
Grizzly bear and two cubs at Grand Teton

Bears at Grand Teton

The most important thing to keep in mind…. you CANNOT get a photo on your cell phone or tablet of a bear that fills the frame image at the designated 100 yard rule set by the National Park Service.

Images you see like the one above are taken with telephoto lenses, typically 400-600mm. When you encounter wildlife and don’t have a telephoto lens, simply enjoy the experience. We really like this affordable 500mm lens for photographing wildlife!

Bears can usually be found at these locations in Grand Teton:

  • Pilgrim Creek
  • Coulter Bay
  • Willow Springs
  • Signal Mountain

More Ideas for Taking Pictures at Grand Teton

Grand Teton National Park lake and mountain scene.
Photo Credit: Roy Goldsberry

Photograph the Many Grand Teton Lakes

Grand Teton has many lakes that make great landscape subjects. If you can get a relfection of the Teton mountains in the water, that’s an added bonus!

Grand Teton landscape with wooden fence and mountains.
Photo Credit: Roy Goldsberry

Grand Teton Photos With Old West Elements

Capturing old-time scenes of western cowboy life adds to the story of Grand Teton National Park.

There are many locations with wooden fences, log cabins and old structures to photograph with the Tetons in the background.

Red Hills near Grand Teton National Park.
Red Hills near Grand Teton National Park.

Photographing the Red Hills Near Grand Teton

Take a picturesque drive along Gros Ventre Road for about 10 miles to reach Red Hills.

Enjoy the scenery as you travel along the road in the Bridger-Teton National Forest (no fees).

At the base of the hills is the Red Hill ranch that produces top quality horses. We would recommend you turn and go back once you reach the Red Hills. There was really nothing of interest past that point.  

Lakeshore-Trail-at-Grand-Teton
Lakeshore Trail at Grand Teton National Park.

Grand Teton Photography Tips

It takes research, time, and effort to capture those “just right” images at Grand Teton National Park. Here are the tips we’ve learned over the years.

Do Your Research to Find the Best Photo Spots at Grand Teton

It’s important to know the best photo spots and best time to photograph each spot at Grand Teton before you arrive. We also like to ‘see’ the general layout of each location so we’ll search the internet, social media and Google Earth to help us plan our photography time before we arrive.

Look Up Sunrise, Sunset and Weather for Grand Teton

The best light is morning and evening so it’s important to know the current sunrise and sunset times for the days you’ll be visiting Grand Teton. Check out our favorite sunrise Photography Spots in Grand Teton National Park!

It’s also important to know the Grand Teton National Park weather forecast. There is an awesome local weather site we use: Mountain Weather.

Take Pictures While You Hike at Grand Teton

You’ll find over 100 miles of hiking trails to explore at Grand Teton where you can photograph mountain views, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife!

Add some easy Grand Teton hiking trails to your itinerary.

Be sure you’re prepared with all the essentials you’ll need while exploring the Grand Teton day hikes:

AMAZON Landscape Photography Books:

landscape photography books

Plan a Grand Teton Vacation

Where to Stay in Jackson Near Grand Teton

Here’s a list of our favorite places to stay:

Grand Teton packing list Optin box

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38 Comments

    1. Pilgrim Creek Road is a wonderful area to get off the main road to have flowers in the foreground with the mountains in the background.

    1. Snow melts gradually, leaving valley trails snow-free by mid-June, canyon trails by late July. Trailhead parking gets full so plan to start hiking early.

  1. Could there possibly be a bad view of the tetons? But, there are some seriously great photo tips! I would want to see those beautiful mountains from every one of the angles you suggested!

  2. Thanks for sharing these tips – and thanks even more for sharing those beautiful photos! I don’t get out west often but the next time I do, I’ll be checking out Grand Teton!

  3. I love visiting national Parks! We’ve just come back from Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes and it was so beautiful! So many national Parks to visit but so little time. Your photos look amazing, I already feel like planning my next trip to the states :p I’ve just started dabbling in travel photography myself and I’m inspired by your photography 🙂

    Amanda
    Singapore

  4. All your pics are so stunning!! I think my favorite is Snake River. I’ve only been to Acadia National Park since I live in Jersey but this makes me want to add Grand Teton to my bucket list.

  5. What spectacular photos! Now I need to get to Grand Teton National Park (this bucket list thing is getting ridiculously long). I love your tip about looking behind you and taking in your surroundings to capture photos that you might not notice otherwise.

    1. Our bucket list is so long as well. And yes, no matter where you travel, always look to the left, right, front and behind so you don’t miss anything!

  6. You captured some truly beautiful images of this amazing National Park! We’ve been exploring the national parks in Canada this summer, but your post has me wanting to head back stateside to enjoy the stunning Tetons! Thanks for the great photo tips as well – always looking to grow my skill :).

  7. Your pictures are gorgeous and so apt for the blog title. I am a huge fan of the US National parks. Unfortunately, I’ve never been to Grand Teton National Park but it is high on my list. It looks very serene and quaint place. Thanks for all of the handy photo tips.

    1. Thank you for the compliments. Grand Teton NP is indeed serene and we hope the photo tips will help when you get a chance to visit one day!

  8. Wow – these photos are breath taking! We’ve never been to Grand Teton National Park but would love to visit. It looks like such a serene and gorgeous place. I would love to take a picture of bears but definitely NOT up close! Thanks for all of the photo tips they will come in handy.

  9. What a pleasant surprise! I know many National Parks in the US but this one is off my radar. Thanks for inspiring me with your beautiful pictures and useful photography tips! 😀

  10. When I visit USA and Canada, I have to get the National Parks Pass. I especially like it when you say, its good to visit any time of year! Oxbow Bend is gorgeous with the blue waters and snow capped peaks! Being lucky with wildlife would be the icing on the cake!

    1. We always feel lucky when we can capture good wildlife photos! And yes, the National Parks pass is a must if you will see more than one park.

  11. Firstly, your photos are absolutely amazing. thank you for the tips and i love how you captured the reflections of those great peaks! Teton definitely looks like a gem of a place and encapsulates North America’s natural environment perfectly.

  12. I absolutely love all your photos, I can’t decide which one is best! Oxbow bend and the Pilgrim road are wonderful, I’d like to try taking photos like this using your advice one day. I think I will invest in a tripod, they seem to make a world of difference, and no shaky hands either!

  13. Grand Teton National Park, how beautiful! That would be a fun photography trip! The lake and mountains you have photographed here are amazing.

  14. Your photography makes the landscape come to life. It beckons me to visit Grand Teton National Park. I love the focused post. Those reflections are marvelous. By the looks of it, I could easily spend two days along Schwabacher Landing.

  15. Stunning shots! My friend and I were visiting the Tetons via Jackson Hole earlier during the spring. There was still a ton of snow on the ground, but I seriously wished we had gotten ahold of this list beforehand! Oh, the pictures we could have taken! We made it to Mormon Row, but had to return a few times in order to get “the” picture that we wanted!

    1. I bet you would have had amazing photos with the snow – that’s still on our list! Now you have a reason to go back and take photos at all the places on our list 🙂

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