Grand Teton National Park

Sprawled across 310,000 acres (130,000 hectares) of incomparable scenery and stunning alpine vistas, the Grand Teton National Park is a shining example of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Vertical hordes of native coniferous trees flood the sides of the majestic Teton Range in a feeble attempt to contain its unfettered wilderness. At the very bottom, the rugged terrain of the valley floor is willfully carpeted in an overgrown thicket of sagebrush, where gleaming lakes drink in waters supplied by mountain glaciers and continue their merry flow across the soul-stirring landscape. It is here that the park's Snake River slices through the park, winding its way through colored fields to meet its terminal in Idaho. Up above, the Grand, Middle and South Tetons unite in a passion of solidarity that dominates the Rockies. They are encircled by the smaller, yet equally magnificent alpine forms of Mount Owen, Mount Moran, and the Teewinot Mountain. A spectacular set of flora and fauna thrives in the versatile ecosystem of this park, from nearly 1000 species of vascular plants to nearly 61 species of mammals. With a rich tapestry of trails that meander through the depths of this park, and a uniquely shaped, diverse ecosystem, the Grand Teton National Park ranks among one of the top choices for back-country adventures.