Grand Teton Private Sunset Tour — Jackson Lake Sunset, Wildlife & Photo Drive
Drive into Grand Teton’s golden hour with a private guide who times the light, scopes for wildlife, and serves a lakeside picnic as the Tetons flare at sunset. Stops include Jenny Lake, Mormon Row, Schwabacher Landing and Jackson Lake—ideal for photographers and wildlife watchers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for cold evenings
Even in summer the temperature can drop quickly after sunset—bring an insulated layer and windproof shell.
Keep a long lens handy
Use a 70–200mm or 300mm for wildlife shots; guides use spotting scopes to help locate subjects at a distance.
Respect wildlife distances
Follow your guide’s instructions—approaching animals stresses them and can be dangerous; use zoom, not footsteps, to get closer.
Charge and protect camera gear
Bring extra batteries and a rain cover; low light increases battery drain and sudden weather moves in fast in the valley.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Oxbow Bend at first light for quiet reflections and moose watching
- •Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve trails for short forest walks away from main pullouts
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Stay on designated pullouts and trails to protect riparian vegetation; avoid feeding wildlife and follow park regulations to minimize human impact.
This valley was summer and travel ground for Shoshone peoples; 19th-century homesteaders and Mormon Row ranchers later shaped the landscape visitors photograph today.
Photographer's Notes
- • Jenny Lake shoreline for mountain-lake compositions
- • Mormon Row barns with the Teton Range behind
- • Schwabacher Landing for reflections and water-level foregrounds
What to Bring
Layered jacketEssential
Keeps you warm during the cool post-sunset period on the valley floor.
Binoculars (8–10x)Essential
Helps spot distant wildlife in marshes and ridgelines before you move to a viewpoint.
Telephoto lens (70–200mm or longer)Essential
Necessary for ethically photographing wildlife without closing distance.
Headlamp or flashlight
Useful for the return drive and walking to the vehicle after sunset.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4–5 hours, including driving time and stops for photos and the lakeside picnic.
Is this tour suitable for kids or infants?
Yes—infant seats are available and the tour is stroller-accessible; note that evening temperatures can be cold for young children.
Will we see wildlife for sure?
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but guides are experienced at finding likely habitats for moose, elk, bison, pronghorn, and eagles—sightings are common at dusk.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all national park entrance fees are included in the tour price.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated for the picnic?
Yes; the operator can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal and other dietary needs with advance notice.
What is the pickup policy?
The tour offers private pickup from Jackson hotels, select lodges and the airport; guide arrival is texted and they wait five minutes at the pickup point.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly vehicle-based with short, flat walks at stops; be comfortable walking on uneven ground for photos.
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