Grand Teton National Park: When to Go

Grand Teton National Park is open year-round. The warmer summer months (Jun-Aug) are the busiest time for visitors, offering an abundance of activities such as hiking, wildlife-spotting, swimming, camping and canoeing. Fall (early Sep-mid-Oct) is also a great time to visit the park - not only are there fewer tourist hordes, but the autumnal colors are amazing and the wildlife active. Fall is breeding season for the park's deer species - look out for toey male elk and moose, on the prowl for likeminded females!

For those who don't mind sub-zero temperatures and loads of snow and frost, Grand Teton is a winter wonderland. Though some of its roads are closed, and conditions on others are potentially tricky, this time of year is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoers. It goes without saying that winter visitors should check weather forecasts and avoid known avalanche trails.

Weather

Winters are long, cold and very snowy in the Grand Teton National Park, generally lasting from November through to mid-April. Nights are freezing, and days - although often sunny - aren't exactly balmy either. Snow can fall right up until May, although the temperatures are much less punishing by this time of year. July and August are the warmer months, with average maximums sitting around 26°C (80°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common at this time of year. The weather begins cooling down again from September; sunny days start competing with rainy ones, while the occasional early snowstorm keeps things interesting.

Temperature (average ° C)