For the first day in Grand Teton National Park, we recommend starting your morning with a Snake River float trip, pictured above. These trips are a wonderful way to see the mountains. Wildlife is most active during early morning and sunset float trips. While the float trips are beautiful, the guide on ours didn’t provide any information about the park. Watch the short film at the Craig Discovery Visitor Center before or after the float.
After the trip, enjoy your packed lunch, and explore the eastern side of the park. Drive down Highway 89, and stop at the Morman Row Viewpoint, the Glacier View Overlook, and the Snake River Overlook. On a clear day, this will give you beautiful mountain views, and a chance to see wildlife on the prairies. The Snake River Overlook is where Ansel Adams took his famous photograph of the river.
If you stick to this leisurely pace, you’ll likely wrap up in the early evening. Head back to your base in Jackson, and go to the Jackson Hole Rodeo. It is a classic rodeo and popular tourist attraction. Check the schedule because it is only offered on certain evenings in the summer. Before the rodeo, stop by Snake River Brewing for good beer, bites, and yard games.
