Sunrise and Sunset – Jackson Hole Scenic Sights

Watching the sunrise over Jackson Hole is a lovely, heartwarming sight. This Jackson Hole scenic sight will make even the most reluctant morning person happy (or at least willing) to be awake. As the sun crests the Gros Ventre Mountains to the east, its first rays graze the very top of the Grand Teton. The mountains are illuminated inch by inch, it seems, while the silent world comes alive all around you.

Clouds part to reveal the Tetons at sunrise, viewed from the south boundary of Grand Teton National Park.

For a morning adventure, rise early (around 5 or 5:30 in the summer months) and head to Grand Teton National Park. There are many great spots to watch the sunrise. Some of our favorites are the Snake River Overlook, the Moulton Barn, the Signal Mountain Summit, the Gros Ventre River, and Schwabacher’s Landing. The last two in particular are also wonderful wildlife watching spots.

Facing east as the sun rises over the Sleeping Indian and the Gros Ventre Mountains.

The sunsets are equally breathtaking. The sun slips from view behind the Tetons a half hour or so before it actually sets, leaving the valley bathed in a soft alpenglow. Any clouds in the sky turn the most dazzling shades of pink, purple, orange and red. Great sites to take in the sights include the tiny town of Kelly (located within Grand Teton National Park), the Deck at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Signal Mountain Lodge, Cottonwood Creek, and the Jenny Lake Overlook, among many others.

A stormy sunset over Jackson Lake, near Signal Mountain Lodge.

The town of Kelly, nestled along the Gros Ventre River is an excellent spot to take in the sunset.

We love taking a drive or hike at this time of day, to enjoy the serenity and appreciate the beauty of these Jackon Hole scenic sights. An added bonus is that wildlife are more active at dawn and dusk, affording a much better chance of seeing those coveted creatures – bear, moose, elk, wolves, and others, perhaps with their babies in tow.

With views like this, Cottonwood Creek picnic area in Grand Teton National Park is a perfect place for an evening picnic. Photo credit: Julie Stetson

Of course the Tetons steal the show when it comes to Jackson Hole scenery, but the sunrise view from the Inn on the Creek isn’t bad either. We’d love to host you on your next sightseeing adventure or relaxing getaway.

Sunrise over the town of Jackson, as seen from the Inn.