How to Capture the Fall Colors at Schwabacher Landing

Schwabacher Landing is one of the most beautiful spots in Grand Teton National Park. The beavers that live nearby build dams, and these dams make the water turn to glass, thus making some amazing reflections. I've visited Schwabacher Landing during every season, but my favorite season has to be when the leaves change colors.

Where to Photograph: There are multiple spots to photograph the scenery. From the parking area you can walk down by the water to take some shots, or if you have a little time, you can walk along the short trail to the right along the water to find the iconic location where the spruce trees frame the Tetons perfectly. Just look for the dozens of photographers near the water, and you'll find it. If you're looking for a unique shot, head to the left from the parking lot and walk along trail and the water to find a different perspective. In addition, as you turn off the highway onto the road to Schwabacher Landing, look for some unique shots of the yellow cottonwoods in front of the Tetons. 

Timing it Right: Trying to time the peak fall colors is no easy task at Schwabacher Landing. The peak fall colors can happen anywhere from within in the first few weeks of September to the first couple weeks of October. You can check the current fall foliage conditions by watching the Jackson Hole webcams. You can also check the current fall colors through hashtags on Instagram such as #mygtnp, #grandteton, #grandtetons, #teton, #tetons, and #schwabacherlanding. 

Important Note: If there is much of a breeze, the reflections disappear, so try to arrive around sunrise or sunset or when the wind dies down to catch them.

Wildlife: If you're looking to photograph some wildlife, you can often find moose here. Moose frequent Schwabacher Landing, because they love the mossy water, so have a zoom lens handy. Also, you'll catch see beaver swimming around in the water.