Grand Teton National Park

Aside from the splendor of the Rocky Mountains, Grand Teton National Park offers RVers a chance to experience history through visits to Mormon Row, Menor's Ferry, and the Murie Ranch. The Thomas Alma Moulton Barn in Mormon Row is a fantastic spot for photographs with the Tetons in the distance. The Snake River flows through Menor's Ferry, where you can visit the homesteaders' property and a replica of the ferry that Menor used to cross the river. Visit Murie Ranch to learn about the Muries' contributions to conservation. You can see bears, wolves, elks, moose, and bison wandering the area. Maintain a safe distance when photographing them: 100 yards for bears and wolves and 25 yards for all other large creatures. Advanced climbers can tackle routes such as the 5.11b-rated Collins-Hume wall or the 5.12b Middle Teton Cave route. Intermediate climbers can scale Owen Spalding, which is rated 5.4, South West Couloir, which is rated 5.5, and others.

The best time for RVing to Grand Teton National Park is during the summer because much of the snow will have melted, and the hiking trails and climbing locations will be relatively dry. There are three visitor centers: the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, and the Colter Bay Visitor Center. Generally, the hours of operation are 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. These centers close for the winter at different times. It's a good idea to check the website for closure dates during the year you plan to visit. You can find the park's current conditions and modify your plans accordingly. Most RV rentals, such as those in Moose, WY, are available 45 or more miles from Grand Teton National Park. Many other RV rentals can be found in Idaho towns close to the Wyoming border.

The maximum RV length at the various campgrounds in the park is:

• Gros Ventre Campground: 45 feet

• Signal Mountain Campground: 45 feet

• Colter Bay RV Park: 45 feet

• Lizard Creek Campground: 25 feet

• Headwaters Campground: 45 feet

Most of the roads in Grand Teton National Park close for the winter, providing cross-country ski paths for winter visitors. You need permits to explore the back country or use boats on the lakes within the park. Although a permit is not required to climb, you do need a permit to remain overnight at climbing locations in the backcountry.