Grand Teton Sunrise Scenic Tour: Best Sunrise Viewpoints and Photography Tips
Wake before dawn and watch the Teton Range wake with you. This private sunrise tour from Jackson guides you to iconic viewpoints—Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher’s Landing, and Mormon Row—offering photography-ready light, wildlife sightings, and concise local history to frame the scene.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for early cold
Mountain mornings can be near freezing even in summer—bring base layers and a windproof shell for standing still at viewpoints.
Tripod-ready camera
Pack a compact tripod and wide-angle lens for mirror-like reflections at Schwabacher's Landing and Oxbow Bend.
Binoculars help wildlife spotting
Keep a pair of binoculars handy; moose, elk, and waterfowl often appear at a distance before you can approach.
Respect wildlife and private property
Stay with the guide and never approach grazing animals or cross fences around historic homesteads—park rules protect both you and wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Snake River Overlook for sweeping river-to-peak compositions
- •Antelope Flats and the Moulton Barns at Mormon Row for historic foregrounds
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Moose
Conservation Note
Grand Teton National Park manages visitor access to protect fragile wetlands and wildlife; stay on designated routes and pack out waste to reduce impact.
The valley bears traces of Shoshone seasonal use, early fur trappers, and Mormon homesteaders—Mormon Row barns date to early 1900s settlement.
Photographer's Notes
- • Schwabacher's Landing (mirror reflections)
- • Oxbow Bend (classic river curve)
- • Mormon Row / Moulton Barns (historic foregrounds)
What to Bring
Warm layers (base and mid layers)Essential
Pre-dawn temperatures can be cold; layers let you shed warmth as the sun rises.
Compact tripodEssential
Essential for low-light sunrise exposures and crisp reflection shots.
Binoculars or monocular
Helps locate wildlife across rivers and meadows before you get closer.
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Some viewpoints require short walks over wet grass or muddy banks at dawn.
Common Questions
What time does the tour start?
Pickup is pre-dawn—typically 4:00–5:00 a.m.—timed so you arrive at viewpoints before first light; exact time varies seasonally.
How strenuous is the tour?
The tour is easy: minimal walking on mostly flat ground, with short approaches to viewpoints and plenty of sitting in the vehicle between stops.
Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common at dawn—elk, moose, deer, and waterfowl—though sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is photography gear provided?
Guides may provide binoculars or a monocular; you should bring your own camera and tripod for best results.
Are restrooms available?
Restroom access is limited in early morning; vehicles stop at developed sites when available—plan accordingly.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly but check operator policies for infant seats and age requirements at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, mostly flat walks and standing at viewpoints.
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