Natural Attraction

Teton Glacier Turnout

Natural AttractionOPERATIONAL★ 4.9
Teton Glacier Turnout overlook in Yellowstone National Park offering dramatic views of snowcapped peaks and a distant plane in a blue sky.

A blue-white glacier tongue sits beneath jagged granite peaks at the roadside turnout. A pale line of moraine beads the slope, testimony to a glacier that once filled this valley. The ice is retreating in the warming climate, a modern signal scientists monitor closely. The scene shows U-shaped valleys and other glacial landforms carved by millions of years of tectonic uplift and ice.

Access & viewing

GPS Coordinates
43.74194°N, 110.79306°W
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible

Conditions & safety

Permits Required
0

Planning advice

Nearby Attractions
Teton Range vistas; other turnout viewpoints along Teton Park Road; Grand Teton National Park geology viewpoints
Nearby Facilities
Parking lot; interpretive signs; restrooms/water status unknown
Best Time To Visit
Early morning or late afternoon for softer light; the road is generally open year-round but winter closures can occur, so plan around snow.
Tips Advice
  • Park early or late in peak season to avoid crowds.
  • Dress in layers; mountain weather changes quickly.
  • Bear spray is advisable in bear country.
  • Read interpretive signs to connect what you see to glacial history.
Insider Tips
  • Arrive early for parking
  • Dress in layers
  • Read interpretive signs to connect the view to the tectonic and glacial history
  • Extend your visit with nearby trails for broader glacier-view opportunities

More details

Park Area
Grand Teton National Park
Family Friendly Notes
Turnout is roadside; keep children away from traffic and monitor wildlife; bear country awareness advised.
Attraction Type
Geological Formation
Elevation Feet
0
Distance From Entrance
12 miles north of Moose Entrance
Accessibility Level
Drive-up view
How To Get There
Take Teton Park Road to the turnout; 12 miles north of the Moose Entrance. Park in the turnout parking lot and view from the roadside.
Parking Availability
Parking lot can become crowded, especially during peak season; visit early or late in the day.
Road Type
Paved
Seasonal Access
Road generally open year-round; winter closures possible due to snow/avalanche; turnout remains accessible when open.
Entry Fees
Varies
Main Features
Glacial glacier, moraine, U-shaped valley
What Youll See
Roadside turnout with Teton Glacier, jagged peaks, and an active moraine downslope; broad valley in view.
Unique Characteristics
Largest glacier in Grand Teton National Park; direct indicator of climate change and ongoing glacial retreat.
Safety Considerations
Rockfall hazards exist from steep slopes; weather can change rapidly; be bear-aware; stay in the turnout and away from traffic; keep distance from wildlife.
Best Viewpoints
Turnout vantage facing the glacier tongue; look toward the peaks for alpenglow in the golden hour.
Photo Opportunities
Golden hour lighting on glacier and granite; textures of moraine and ice surfaces.
Photography Spots
Turnout and roadside viewpoints; best light during golden hours.
Stargazing Quality
Fair to good on clear nights; away from heavy light pollution but weather can restrict views.
Sunrise Sunset Quality
Alpenglow on peaks at sunrise and sunset
Visitor Center Present
0
Restrooms Available
0
Picnic Areas
0
Interpretive Signs
1
Cell Service
Limited or no cell service
Water Available
0
Guided Tours Available
0
Trailheads Here
No hiking required for the main view; surrounding trails offer opportunities for further exploration.
Connecting Trails
Surrounding trails offer exploration beyond the turnout
Nearby Services
Parking; interpretive signs; restrooms/water status not confirmed
Common Wildlife
Moose, elk, bison, pronghorn, bears, coyotes, golden eagles
Best Wildlife Times
Early morning and late evening
Geological Formation Type
Moraine
Scientific Interest
Visible glacial dynamics; climate-change indicator; early bedrock ages up to 2.7 billion years; Little Ice Age origins for the glacier
Road Opening Dates
Varies
Snow Lingering
Snow can linger into spring; access depends on snowpack and avalanche risk
Winter Access
false
Best Visit Times
Early morning or late afternoon
Best Season
Year-round with caveats; best light in late spring to early autumn
Weather Patterns
Rapid mountain weather changes; winter snow can close roads or limit access
Peak Fill Times
Parking fills in peak season; arrive early or late to secure a spot
Busiest Season
Summer
Lake Size
0.66 miles long; 53 acres
Fishing Nearby
0
Swimming Allowed
0
Boating Allowed
0
Climbing Areas
0
Review Summary
Visitors rate the turnout highly for its direct glacier view and ease of access. The scene clearly communicates glacial history and the tectonic setting of the Tetons, with reliable opportunities for photography; crowds can be noticeable in peak season.

Location

Teton Glacier Turnout informational sign with snow-capped Tetons in the distance, located within Yellowstone National Park.Teton Glacier Turnout at Yellowstone National Park with snow-capped peaks behind a man beside an interpretive sign.Teton Glacier Turnout at Yellowstone National Park offers views of a glacier-fed lake with the Teton Range.Teton Glacier Turnout view featuring jagged peaks of the Teton Range over a forested plain in Yellowstone National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Is parking reliable during peak season?

Parking can fill during peak season; plan to arrive early or late to secure a spot.

Is it worth a stop if I’m short on time?

Yes. The turnout provides a direct view of the Teton Glacier, the largest glacier in the park, and a clear climate-change signal conveyed by its retreat.

Is the turnout accessible for someone with limited mobility?

Yes. The primary viewing area is a drive-up turnout and is wheelchair accessible.

Are restrooms available at the turnout?

Restroom status at the turnout is not confirmed; plan accordingly.

Should I bring bear spray for this area?

Yes. Bear spray is advisable in bear country; stay alert and follow park safety guidelines.

Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated January 2026. Report an issue.