Grand Teton National Park is one of the BEST places to see wildlife in the Lower 48 states. It doesn’t even have to take a backseat to Yellowstone National Park.
So, where can you find wildlife in Grand Teton?
Animals are found all over Grand Teton National Park, including moose, elk, bison, deer, pronghorn (antelope), eagles, foxes, porcupines, and marmots.
You can see wildlife just about anywhere in the park, but it helps to know where to look to increase your chances!
- Visiting Grand Teton and need a game plan? Check out our itinerary.
Moose-Wilson Road
The Moose-Wilson road extends from Moose Junction (in the park) and veers south to the town of Wilson (out of the park).
This is partially a dirt road and is not RV-friendly.
Moose and bears are common here, so much so that it often gets closed if there is too much bear activity.
Visit Grand Teton’s Most Popular Spot with Confidence with Our Complete Guide to Jenny Lake
It includes boat rides, reservations, things to do, how to save miles hiking, and more!
Oxbow Bend
Oxbow Bend is a turnout on Highway 191 near the top of Teton Park Road, but I’m really referring to this entire area, from Signal Mountain Lodge (on Teton Park Road) to Moran Junction (just beyond Oxbow Bend).
I’ve seen a big bull elk just about every time I’ve been in this area. Bears frequent the area as well.
The famous Bear 399’s den was located nearby.
Oxbow Bend is a pull-out that is very popular for photographers because it also has nice scenic shots of Mount Moran.
Schwabacher Landing
This is a stop on Highway 89/191, which is also called the Outer Road (as opposed to Teton Park Road, which is the Inner Road). The sign isn’t as big as the other stops for some reason, so you’ll have to keep an eye out. Once you turn off, you’ll drive on a dirt road to a parking lot.
There is a little dirt path in which you can walk along the river. It’s very popular for photographers because you get the river, the trees, and the mountains in one shot.
It’s common to see moose down by the river.
Mormon Row/Gros Ventre
Mormon Row has some buildings from early Mormon settlers that are a hot spot for photographers looking for a typical “American West” photo.
It’s on a dirt road that heads south to Gros Ventre Road.
This entire loop – Antelope Flats, Mormon Row, and Gros Ventre Road – is an incredible area to spot animals.
It can be a bumpy ride. It can be done in a car or van, but be aware.
We’ve had many moose sightings as well as antelope, bison, and deer.
The Snake River
The Snake River flows through Grand Teton National Park, and it is one of the BEST ways to see wildlife!
Though Jackson Hole is famous for whitewater adventures, you can also do calm scenic floats through Grand Teton National Park. We’ve done both!
One of our most treasured memories of Grand Teton was when we did a scenic float through Triangle X. Not only did they feed us dinner, but then we got to feel the cool mountain breeze while we floated on the river.
Eagles hung out in the trees looking for fish and beavers were busy building dams. What a cool experience to see these animals up close!
- Don’t miss our review of the Triangle X Dinner Float experience.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Need a game plan so you don’t miss out on the best things to do in Grand Teton? Check out our itinerary.
Most travelers want to visit the most popular sites and still avoid the crowds. We have a detailed itinerary that gives you a step-by-step game plan so you can get to the best places at the right times!
But that’s not all! Our itinerary includes a free audio guide to listen to while driving with over 3-hours of stories about the park!
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO GRAND TETON
GRAND TETON TRIP PLANNER: To read or watch all of our content about Grand Teton National Park, check out our Grand Teton Homepage
THINGS TO DO: Don’t miss all that Grand Teton has to offer including Jenny Lake, Colter Bay, Mormon Row, Teton Village, river rafting, and abundant wildlife
WHERE TO EAT: Check out the best places to eat and where to get groceries and eat picnics in Grand Teton National Park
GREAT CITIES TO STAY OR CHECK OUT: Learn all about where to stay and where to camp when visiting Grand Teton and all there is to do in Jackson, Wyoming
WATCH: Enjoy videos of gorgeous Grand Teton National Park while learning our best tips for visiting by watching our Grand Teton YouTube Playlist