Great Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming,
south of Yellowstone National Park. The park is named after the
Grand Teton, which, at 13,770 feet, is the tallest mountain in
the Teton Range. The origin of the name "Teton" is not
definitive. One possible origin is that it was the name given by
French trappers in the area. ("Tetons" means nipples in French.)
Another possible source is that the mountains derive their name
from the names of one of tribes in the Sioux Nation.
Grand Teton National Park was established on February 26, 1929.
The park covers 484 square miles of land and water. There are
nearly 200 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy in Grand Teton
National Park.
Few Landscaptes in the world are as striking and memorable as
that of Grand Teton National Park. Rising abruptly from the
valley floor, the Tetons offer a testament to the power and
complexity of nature. The mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers and
skies are home to diverse and abundant plants and animals.
People have been living in the shadow of the Teton Range for
more than 11,000 years. The human history of this area is
extensive, beginning with prehistoric American Indians, to the
early Euro-American explorers, and the more recent frontier
settlers. Today, more than 300 historic structures remain in the
park. This spectacular mountain range and the desire to protect
it resulted in the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in
1929. Through the vision and generous philanthropy of John D.
Rockefeller, Jr., additional lands were added, creating the
present day park in 1950.
Grand Teton National Park is truly a special and unique place.
With thoughtful use and careful management, it can remain so for
generations to come. As with other sites in the National Park
System, Grand Teton preserves a piece of the natural and
cultural heritage of America for the benefit and enjoyment of
future generations.
While you are here, take a moment to put your cares aside,
stroll through a sagebrush meadow, hike a park trail, sit on a
quiet lakeshore,and lose yourself to the power ofthis place. We
hope you will be refreshed and restored during your visit, and
stay connected to this magnificent landscape long after you have
returned home.
