Travel, Lodging and The Surrounding Area
As you embark on the journey to join us for our celebration, we recognize that the path to Gros Ventre Campground in the heart of Grand Teton National Park is one less traveled but the tranquil beauty and the majestic backdrop of the Tetons as well as Yellowstone National Park have been silent witnesses to our love story. We can't imagine a more perfect setting to say our vows. We understand that such a special location comes with its logistical challenges, which is why we've gathered some detailed information on lodging and travel to assist you in your planning. Of course, you aren’t restricted to what we’ve compiled here. Our hope is to help make this journey not just manageable but memorable for all of those that we are fortunate enough to have join us.
Travel to Grand Teton National Park
For our guests flying in to join us, navigating your way to this picturesque location is an important part of your journey. Here's some essential information to help you plan your flight arrangements:
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1. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC):
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Closest Airport: Located within Grand Teton National Park, about a 15-minute drive to Gros Ventre Campground; the location of our wedding and about 20 minutes from the town of Jackson Hole.
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Convenience: Offers direct flights from several major cities and is the most convenient option for minimizing travel time upon arrival.
2. Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA):
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Alternative Option: Situated approximately 108 miles (about a 2-hour drive) to Jackson Hole with another 15 minutes needed to get to the Campground.
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Broader Selection: Often provides more flight options and potentially lower fares but includes a longer (all be it very scenic) drive.
3. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC):
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Major Hub: Around 280 miles away, equating to a 4.5-hour drive. Ideal for guests who don't mind adding a beautiful half day road trip at the end of their flight.
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Variety and Cost-Effectiveness: Being a larger airport, SLC offers a wide range of flights, likely with the lowest prices.
There are no public transportation options at any of these airports, but each provides rental car services, which you will need for the final leg of your journey. If you have the time, the less expensive airports with longer drives can even be a fun part of the adventure, offering the chance to acclimatize to the breathtaking beauty of Wyoming as you make your way to the Teton range.
We suggest booking your flights and car rentals well in advance to ensure the best availability and rates.
Lodging Options
As you plan your stay for our wedding, we are excited to share our favorite lodging options that cater to different preferences, needs and budgets.
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1. “Primitive” Camping at Gros Ventre Campground:
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Tammy and Annette have reserved a "Primitive" Group Loop, accommodating up to 65 people.
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This loop offers a true back-to-nature experience with no electrical hookups or at site water, and generator use is prohibited.
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Facilities include 1 bathroom with 4 flushing toilets and a water spigot out front for carrying water to your site.
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There are 13 spots for small campers (about 25 ft or less) and ample space for tent camping, if you don’t mind doing so without a “tent pad”.
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Cost: $16 per person per night for a minimum 3-night, maximum 4-night stay.
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RSVP required through our wedding website on the RSVP page, and you can pay us through Venmo, our handles are on the RSVP page.
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A food storage locker is provided for those in the loop and should be used. Rangers can and will issue citations for food left out and/or improper food storage.
2. “Regular” Camping at Gros Ventre Campground:
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For a more conventional camping experience, regular sites outside the Group Loops are available at Gros Ventre Campground.
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These sites cater to both tents and RVs, with amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and access to water and electricity at many sites and centralized bathrooms with running water for shared use.
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Note: Generators are allowed in designated loops, but there are no shower facilities.
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Prices range from $50 to $120 per night.
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Reservations can be competitive and are made through www.recreation.gov. Please ask us for tips or refer to our earlier email as to the best ways to try to reserve one of these sites
3. Additional Campground Options Inside Grand Teton National Park:
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Jenny Lake offers tent-only camping and if you can get one of these sites, grab it!
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Signal Mountain Campground and/or Colter Bay Campground and RV Park are the next closest options to Gros Ventre.
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Reservations can be competitive and are made through www.recreation.gov. Please ask us for tips or refer to our earlier email as to the best ways to try to reserve one of these sites
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4. Glamping Campgrounds Outside Grand Teton National Park (BOOK NOW):
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Snake River Cabins & RV Village: Located 12 miles south of Jackson Hole, with various cabin configurations and RV sites, prices range from $90 to $130 a night. On the banks of the Snake River! More Info.
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The Virginian RV Park: In the heart of the town of Jackson Hole, offering RV sites with full hookups, prices start at $129 a night and go up from there. More Info.
5. Cowboy Village Resort in Jackson Hole (BOOK NOW):
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Ideal for a "budget-friendly" cabin stay in Jackson Hole, with prices starting around $275 a night. More Info.
6. The Hotel or Airbnb of your choice (BOOK NOW)
Each option offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Wyoming while celebrating with us.
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Surrounding Area | Making The Most Of Your Trip
While you're here to celebrate our special day, why not extend your adventure on one end or the other and explore the stunning surroundings of Grand Teton National Park and its vicinity? September is a magical time in and around the Tetons, offering a plethora of activities and sights. Here are some recommendations to make the most of your trip:
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1. Grand Teton National Park:
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Scenic Drives: Traverse the Teton Park Road for breathtaking views of the Teton Range and Jenny Lake.
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Hiking Trails: Whether you're a casual walker or a seasoned hiker, trails like Taggart Lake and Cascade Canyon offer unforgettable natural beauty.
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Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for moose, bison, and elk, especially in the early mornings and evenings.
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Drive (slowly) the “Moose-Wilson Road” to Teton Village, about 1 hour before dark. This 6-mile one way/12-mile round trip drive in the southernmost area of Grand Teton National Park is where you are most likely to spot Moose, Elk, Deer, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a black bear or two! Black Bears are not Grizzly Bears but there are Grizzlies in the Park. Grizzlies are much larger and don’t like to be where people are. Grizzlies tend to stay in the remote northern areas of the park and are extremely rare to see.
2. Jackson Hole:
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Town Square: Explore the iconic antler arches, unique shops, and local eateries.
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Aerial Tram Ride: Take the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram from Teton Village to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain for panoramic views.
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Nightlife: Enjoy lively bars and live music, offering a taste of the Old West. Be sure to pop in to The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and have a drink while straddling a horse saddle if you are so inclined!
3. Yellowstone National Park:
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A bit further North but well worth the magnificent 1.5-hour drive, you really should try to see Old Faithful at least, in the world’s first national park. If you want the best chance to see wildlife in Yellowstone, you are certain to see herds of Bison in the Lamar Valley on the North end of Yellowstone. If you are lucky, this area of the park is also your best chance at spotting a Grizzly Bear or a wolf.
4. Local Activities:
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Horseback Riding: Experience the wilderness on horseback with guided tours.
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Fishing: The Snake River and its tributaries offer excellent fly-fishing opportunities.
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Mountain Biking: Rent a bike and hit the numerous trails offering varying levels of difficulty.
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Cultural Attractions:
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National Museum of Wildlife Art: Overlooking the National Elk Refuge, this museum showcases wildlife art in a stunning setting.
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Historical Sites: Explore the rich history of the area through its various historical sites and museums.
5. Favorite Eats:
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Pearl Street Bagels: Unbelievably awesome bagels made fresh throughout the day. They refuse to toast bagels here because they are always right out of the oven! A 35-year-old local favorite!
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The Bunnery Bakery and Restaurant: for Breakfast or Lunch. It’s a bit pricey and there is always a line but for good reason.
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Jackson Drug Original Soda Fountain: Right on the square in Jackson; fun place to grab a memorable sweet treat.
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Liberty Burger: Best burger in Jackson and they have great salads too!
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Teton Thai: One of our favorite ethnic foods, this place, located in Teton Village, is tiny and always packed but it’s the best Thai Food we have ever had in the US! Seriously.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Grand Teton area in September is a treasure trove of experiences. We hope you take the time to enjoy what this incredible region has to offer.
