The Grand Tetons extend across northwestern Wyoming, south from Yellowstone, and are an iconic representation of the American west. The mountains are characterized by three astounding peaks; Grand Teton, Middle Teton, and South Teton. Upon first glance, the Teton's seem to rise to sharp steep points, giving every visitor a classic representation of what a mountain should look like. The Teton's consist of very old, very hard, metal colored rock, though still the mountains are considered the youngest of the Rockies, at about 9 to 10 million years young. Hiking in the Tetons is an activity that millions of visitors each year travel to experience. This range is rugged and wild, and though trails for beginners are abundant, only experienced trekkers should attempt hiking the backcountry.
Stop in at the park entrance headquarters to pay the required fee, obtain a backcountry permit if needed, and obtain detailed maps of the regions numerous hiking trails. If you've recently visited neighboring Yellowstone, the entrance fee you paid there is also good for visit to the Grand Tetons. Also, take this time to ask the Park Rangers any questions about the park. The Rangers can guide you towards trails or hiking that suits your current physical fitness and experience level .
Select a hiking trail that corresponds to your personal experience level. Hikes in the north country, particularly around the region of Signal mountain, are extremely arduous, and require following old game trails through narrow mountain passes, on slippery rock, created by Elk, Moose, and Mountain goats. In many places, a trail may not even be visible, so superb compass and map orienting skills are needed. For beginning hikers, or those not yet accustomed to higher elevations, stick to the regions light trails such as Crest Trail, near Teton Village, or the trails in Granite, and Cascade canyons.
Bring along all necessary hiking gear, appropriate to the season that you're visiting the park. This is high country, and the weather can change abruptly. Hikers should have a good, well broke-in pair of waterproof, or Gore-Tex hiking books. The rock can be slippery and hard, so rolling or breaking your ankle is easy to do. Snow can also fall in May and June in the Tetons, a fleece jacket, and rain gear are recommended for all hikers to carry. As with any hiking trip, appropriate survival gear should always be accessible, such as a fire-starter, whistle and signal mirror, light source, and an emergency blanket.
Remain alert in all areas of the park, and obey all posted instructions while out on the trail. This region is home to a variety of large mammals including bison, moose, black bear, elk and mountain goat. Do not approach or feed the animals. Alert animals, particularly bears, of your presence while hiking through the region. Making loud noises while hiking will keep bears away, and you'll avoid startling or confronting a bear or any animal.
Be aware of your surroundings within the park, particularly on longer hikes in the backcountry. Stop every half hour to check your position via your map and compass, or GPS. You do not want to get lost or stranded out in the wild Teton country.
Pack out everything that you bring along, especially for longer trips into the backcountry. Adhere to "Leave No Trace" ethics, avoid making cairns, or trekking over tender vegetation. This includes packing out any toilet paper that you use, or any other trash. When nature calls, dig a six to eight inch cat-hole and bury your business. If camping, ensure that you do not make a fire ring, use a small camp stove for food or coffee instead. Also, regulations in the park stipulate that you can only set up camp at least 200 feet form any water source.
