Family-Friendly Adventures in Moose, Wyoming!

Mormon Row Historic District

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Mormon Row Historic District

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early to beat the crowds and make the most of the peaceful morning light which is perfect for photographs. Mormon Row is easily accessible from the town of Jackson, Wyoming. Drive north on US 191 for about 12 miles, then turn right onto Antelope Flats Road and continue for 1.7 miles to reach the historic district.

Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll along the dirt roads of this iconic settlement. Start at the famous John Moulton barn, one of the most photographed barns in America. As you explore, share with the kids how this area was settled in the 1890s by Mormon pioneers, and imagine the challenges and triumphs of life on the frontier.

Midday: Picnic and Wildlife Watching

Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range. There are several spots along Mormon Row or nearby Antelope Flats where families can spread a blanket and relax. Keep an eye out for bison, pronghorns, and maybe even a coyote, which are often spotted in the area.

Afternoon: Educational Fun

After lunch, visit the Moulton Ranch Cabins to dive deeper into the history. These preserved structures offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the early settlers. Use the opportunity to teach the kids about sustainable farming practices and the adaptation skills required by the original homesteaders.

Late Afternoon: Scenic Drive or Bike Ride

Conclude your visit with a scenic drive or a bike ride around the area. The nearby Gros Ventre road offers stunning views and further opportunities to spot wildlife. It"s a perfect way to reflect on the day and enjoy more of the natural beauty the region has to offer.

Remember: Always respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance, and help preserve the historic integrity of Mormon Row by not climbing on the structures. This ensures a safe and respectful visit for everyone.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Grand Teton National Park

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Visitor Center

Start your Grand Teton adventure by flying into Jackson Hole Airport, uniquely located within the park. After settling into your accommodation nearby, visit the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center in Moose. Kids can partake in the Junior Ranger Program, collecting badges at various stations. This center offers interactive exhibits that introduce the park"s wildlife and geology.

Day 2: Jenny Lake and Hidden Falls

Drive or take the shuttle from the visitor center to Jenny Lake, one of the park"s jewels. Enjoy a scenic boat ride across the lake (a great save on time and legs for little ones!). Once across, take a moderate hike to Hidden Falls, a spectacular 100-foot waterfall. The trail is about a 1-mile trek from the boat dock and offers stunning views and possible wildlife sightings. Return by boat and have a picnic with the majestic Tetons as your backdrop.

Day 3: Wildlife Tour and Menor’s Ferry

Embark on a morning wildlife safari tour. The park is home to elk, moose, and bison. Early mornings are best for sighting these majestic creatures. Then, visit the historic Menor’s Ferry district near Moose, where you can see a preserved 1890s homestead and ferry. It includes a general store where kids can see what pioneer life was like.

Day 4: Hiking and Stargazing

Choose a family-friendly hike, such as the Taggart Lake Trail – a relatively flat 3-mile round trip with breathtaking views of the Tetons reflecting in the lake. In the evening, participate in a ranger-led stargazing program. The park"s minimal light pollution offers some of the best views of the Milky Way.

Day 5: Departure

Before heading home, enjoy a final scenic drive along the Teton Park Road, stopping at various overlooks to take pictures and soak in the last views of the spectacular landscape.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jackson Lake

Why Visit?

Whether you"re trekking with toddlers or teens, a family trip to Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park is packed with adventures that balance fun with a hint of education. Nestled in Wyoming"s rugged terrain, Jackson Lake offers striking views and a plethora of activities that cater to all ages. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary for your visit:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

- Morning: Drive to Jackson Lake

Start your journey early in the morning to make the most of the day. Jackson Lake is easily accessible by car via U.S. Highways 89/191/287. As you drive, enjoy the scenic Teton Range skyline.

- Afternoon: Colter Bay Visitor Center

Make your first stop at the Colter Bay Visitor Center. It’s a great spot to pick up maps, check out interactive exhibits, and join a ranger-led program. Kids love learning about the local wildlife and geology in an engaging way.

Day 2: Water Activities and Hiking

- Morning: Kayaking or Canoeing

Rent kayaks or canoes from Colter Bay Marina. Paddling on Jackson Lake with the family offers a serene experience and a fresh perspective on the Tetons’ reflection in the water.

- Afternoon: Lakeshore Trail Hike

After lunch, head out on the Lakeshore Trail directly from Colter Bay. This easy 2-mile loop is perfect for families, offering minimal elevation and maximum lake views. Keep your eyes peeled for ospreys or bald eagles.

Day 3: Historical Journey and Departure

- Morning: Menor’s Ferry Historic District

Before heading home, visit the Menor’s Ferry Historic District near the town of Moose. It’s a short drive south along Teton Park Road. This site offers a slice of 19th-century history with a general store, a chapel, and the historic ferry which kids find fascinating.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Jackson Lake is man-made, enlarged by the construction of the Jackson Lake Dam in the early 1900s? It’s a great discussion point on how human intervention impacts natural landscapes.

This engaging itinerary ensures your family not only experiences the natural beauty of Jackson Lake and its surroundings but also learns about its rich history and ecological significance.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Oxbow Bend

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

- Morning: Arrival at Jackson Hole

- Fly into Jackson Hole Airport, rent a car for easy mobility.

- Drive 32 miles north to reach Oxbow Bend, located just north of Jackson Lake Junction on Highway 191/89.

- Fun Fact: The airport is the only commercial airport in the U.S. within a national park!

- Afternoon: Picnic and Wildlife Viewing at Oxbow Bend

- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with views of Mount Moran reflecting off the Snake River.

- Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting—keep an eye out for moose, bald eagles, and osprey.

- Interesting Fact: Oxbow Bend is one of the best places in the park to spot a variety of wildlife due to its diverse ecosystems.

- Evening: Short Hike and Sunset

- Take a family-friendly hike along the nearby trails. The Cattleman’s Bridge Site provides a gentle path suitable for all ages.

- Watch the sunset over the river, a perfect photo opportunity.

Day 2: Outdoor Activities and Education

- Morning: Canoeing or Kayaking

- Rent a canoe or kayak from one of the local outfitters to paddle around the calm waters of the Oxbow.

- Safety first: ensure everyone wears life jackets.

- Afternoon: Visit the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center

- Drive 12 miles south to learn about the park’s geography, wildlife, and history through interactive exhibits—ideal for curious kids.

- Attend a ranger-led talk to hear fascinating stories about the park’s ecosystem.

- Evenary: Leisurely Drive and Departure

- Before heading back, take a leisurely drive through the park, stopping at various overlooks to appreciate the majestic landscapes one last time.

- Return to Jackson Hole for your flight home, filled with memories of a splendid natural retreat.

Enjoy your family adventure at Oxbod Bend, where nature"s wonders meet educational fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jenny Lake Trail

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. This popular, scenic trail offers panoramic views, wildlife sightings, and educational opportunities, making it perfect for families.

Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

- Morning: Arrive early at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Secure a parking spot as it fills quickly, especially during peak season (June to September). Take time to explore the visitor center, where you can pick up a map and learn about the trail"s history and wildlife from park rangers.

- Afternoon: Start your hike at the Jenny Lake Trailhead located near the visitor center. The full loop around Jenny Lake is a manageable 7.6 miles and generally flat, ideal for families. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas beside the lake.

Day 2: Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point

- Morning: Take the Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat from the South Jenny Lake area to shorten your hike and head straight to the trail leading to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. The boat ride offers a quick but beautiful view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

- Hike to Hidden Falls: A fairly easy 1-mile hike from the West Boat Dock leads you to Hidden Falls, a stunning 100-foot waterfall. It"s a great spot for photos and a refreshing mist on warmer days.

- Continue to Inspiration Point: After enjoying Hidden Falls, hike another 0.5 miles to Inspiration Point. This spot offers breathtaking views of Jenny Lake and the Teton Range. It"s a bit steeper but well worth the effort for the view.

Interesting Facts

- Jenny Lake was formed approximately 12,000 years ago by glaciers.

- Keep an eye out for local wildlife including moose, black bears, and eagles.

- The park offers Junior Ranger programs for kids to learn about the area"s natural environment in a fun and engaging way.

End your visit by relaxing at the shores of Jenny Lake, reflecting on the memories made in one of America"s most beautiful landscapes!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.