Hike along the Gros Ventre River

The Gros Ventre (pronounced gro-vant) lies on the southern boundary of Grand Teton National Park, and is home to a great deal of wildlife. As the seasons change, so do the wildlife that frequent this area, but no matter what time of year you hike along the river, you're bound to see something spectacular.

In autumn, the Gros Ventre comes alive, even as it fades into winter. The cottonwood trees that line the river ignite with a beautiful golden color that sets the backdrop for the moose rut. In winter, thousands of wild elk and bison migrate along the Gros Ventre River as they head south in Jackson Hole to avoid greater snowfalls up north. In spring and summer, this area sees a great deal of newborns, including coyotes, fox, owls, moose, deer, and bears.

To reach the Gros Ventre, drive about 7 miles north out of Jackson, after crossing the bridge over the river, you will see a sign along the road. Pull into the Gros Ventre campground, about 5 miles down the road, heading east, after you turn off the main highway. Park anywhere in the campground and make your way to the river, about 100 feet away.

Wander as you please along the river, taking the trail (created by the footsteps of both wildlife and humans) in either direction. As you walk through the cottonwood trees and willows, you will see a variety of wildlife and amazing views of the river. There are two separate beaver lodges just beyond the campground, which are an important basis of this river ecosystem.

Camping here is also phenomenal, and wildlife can be seen roaming through the campground on any given day. The campground runs first come, first serve: for more information visit the Grand Teton National Park website.

For an easy, solitary hike with great wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, this area is not to be missed when visiting Grand Teton National Park!