Mick McMurray
2 Days in Grand Teton National Park
Updated: 7 days ago

The Teton Range, a stunning segment of the Rocky Mountains, boasts jagged peaks and stretches for approximately 40 miles. Our journey to Fireside Resort in Moran, Wyoming, was a short 85-mile drive from the Canyon Campground in Yellowstone, taking only 2 hours. The resort's sites were situated in a grassy meadow and offered full hookups, but we could only stay for two nights due to a prior appointment and the high prices for the amenities provided. This was our 5th and final stop on this National Park road trip. To see the start of this trip go here. During our drive, we set out to look for a mother grizzly and her two cubs that my son had told us about, as well as some elusive moose. Unfortunately, we didn't have any luck finding them.
We visited Schwabacher Landing. Nestled along the banks of the Snake River, this hidden gem offers a tranquil setting with breathtaking views. As we walked along the wooden boardwalks, we were greeted by the sight of the majestic Teton Range mirrored in the calm waters of the river. The reflections are nothing short of mesmerizing, creating a picture-perfect scene that left us in awe.
The Snake River Overlook in Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking natural vantage point that captures the essence of the park's majestic beauty. Perched atop a rugged cliff, overlooking the winding path of the iconic Snake River, this overlook offered us a mesmerizing panoramic view of the Teton Range. The Snake River, snaking its way through the valley, adds a serene touch to the dramatic landscape. As the sun casts its warm glow upon the mountains and the river, the scene becomes even more enchanting, making the Snake River Overlook a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Oxbow Turnout in Grand Teton National Park is a hidden gem that showcases the park's extraordinary blend of natural beauty and geological wonders. Located along the Snake River, this picturesque spot offered us a unique perspective on the meandering waterway. The Oxbow Turnout derives its name from the distinctive shape of the river, which forms a wide, sweeping curve resembling the yoke of an ox. As we stood on the overlook, we were treated to an awe-inspiring view of the Oxbow Bend, where the river gracefully bends and reflects the towering Teton Range. The reflection of the mountains in the calm waters creates a mirror-like effect, doubling the magnificence of the landscape. The area is teeming with diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, and elk, further enhancing the enchantment of the Oxbow Turnout. This serene and captivating location beckons nature lovers and photographers alike, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Grand Teton National Park.
We also explored Jenny Lake and took advantage of the convenient Jenny Lake Shuttle, which allowed us to maximize our limited time in the park. After crossing the lake, we embarked on a scenic hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Thanks to the shuttle, we saved valuable time that would have otherwise been spent on a longer trek around the lake. The beauty of the Teton Range, even within our short visit, made an indelible mark on our hearts, leaving a lasting impression. We did make it back a couple of years later so If you want to see a great place to see moose check out our next trip to Grand Teton.
Grand Teton National Park and a Mob of Moose
Lorna’s Tips and Lessons
Keep a travel journal. Our travel Journals have been so helpful in looking back and in planning other trips. You can find journals just for traveling. I find that I like a spiral 5x7 notebook. I put the date, where we stayed, campsite # (also list sites we liked for future trips), and what we did briefly. At first, I would wait until we got home, print a few pictures, and paste them into the journal. Then I discovered the HP Sprocket Portable Printer that prints on sticky-backed paper. It prints right from my phone, allowing me to place pictures in my journal right on the trip. I find that it is best to do this daily than trying to recreate it. It takes just a few minutes and is better than any souvenir we could purchase.