Grand Teton - Schwabacher Landing

Introduction:

What? :

If you're looking for a river side spot with Grand Teton Mountain Range reflections, abundant wildlife, and an easy walk suitable for all ages, Schwabacher Landing is the best place for such activity in Grand Teton National Park.

It is just a short drive off the main road, down to the river level. This spot with side flow of the Snake River delivers iconic views, especially at sunrise or sunset, and is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike.

Note:

This is probably the most iconic landscape view for sunrise, so the parking lot is full and it is VERY crowded well before down.

Where? :

Schwabacher Landing is located off U.S. Highway 191, about 16 miles north of Jackson, Wyoming, and roughly 4 miles south of the Moose Junction entrance to Grand Teton National Park.

Google Map Link

From Jackson, WY, drive north on US-191/US-89/US-26, pass the left turn into the park and keep driving for 4 miles. You will see, unmarked turnoff to the west side (left) of the road if you are driving south, this will be 1.35 mile south of Teton Point Turnout.

Turn west onto Schwabacher Road, after the descend section the road turned into a dirt road of about 1 mile long taking you in the direction of the Snake River.

The dirt road is typically passable for all vehicles in summer (including RV’s), but after rain or in early spring, it can be rutted or muddy, check conditions before visiting and drive slowly.

At the end of the road you will reach the parking lot.

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When? :

Grand Teton National Park is open year-round, but most roads are not open to vehicles in the winter due to heavy snow.

The park tourist season is from late May through September.

Park service are open
High elevation trails are mostly snow-free
Wildflowers are blooming
Waterfalls are flowing
Wildlife is active
Shuttle boat across Jenny Lake is running

My personal recommendations are to visit Grand Teton National Park during the month of September.

The park is not as crowded as the peak tourist season of the summer months, the weather is ideal for hiking, it is not so hot or cold, all the roads are still open and the animals are in their active months.

Another option is during June when the snow is mainly cleared, all is green and the animals are getting out and active after the long winter.

Summer:

This is the peak Season (Mid-June to Mid-September)

All park roads are open to personal vehicles, making it easy to drive up to all attractions.

It is very crowded here during the summer months. The crowds exist in all park roads and tourist destinations.

Days are usually warm days (70-80f), but nights can still be cool. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

All lodges, hotels and campgrounds are open, high price and reservations need many months in advance.

Fall:

Fall season is short (Mid-September to end October) offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.

All roads are still open (most interior roads close to vehicles by early November), usually there is no heavy snow but you should expect a mix of sunny and rainy days and cold temperatures.

Daytime highs can range from the 40-70F, with nights dropping below freezing.

Winter:

US Highway 89/191/26 (the outer road) is open year-round and plowed for traffic. This is the main north-south highway that runs from the town of Jackson through the park and continues toward Yellowstone. The park inner roads are typically closed to wheeled vehicles from November 1 through April 30 (dates can vary based on weather).

From approximately November through May, most visitor facilities, including visitor centers, campgrounds, and lodges, are closed or operate on very limited schedules.

Avoid visiting in early spring or late fall if you’re aiming for a hike, snow and ice may make higher elevations impassable.

The weather is cold with daytime temperatures between 0-20f.

You need proper, layered, waterproof and warm winter clothing is essential.

Spring:

Spring is a very short season, practically in May and early June.

Crowds are minimal, especially in April and May, making for a quiet visit.

Weather is unpredictable, with the potential for warm, pleasant days mixed with snow, rain, and freezing temperatures.

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Tips and inputs:

Due note 1:

This is a very popular location for sunrise viewing and taking pictures. Many are coming well before first light and the parking lot and the road is full packed with many cars.

The evening is also beautiful, often with soft pastel skies and fewer visitors.

Due note 2:

Near the parking lot you can find restrooms.

No other tourist facilities.

Due note 3:

This is a very short walk to the reflection point and the ponds.

If you plan to walk south along the river bring with you water and snacks.

Due note 4:

Dress in Layers: Grand Teton weather can change quickly even during the summer months. Be prepared for sun, rain, and cool temperatures. This area is exposed to the sun so bring a hat, use sunscreen and sunglasses.

Due note 5:

Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and keep it accessible (not in your backpack). Hike in groups and make noise, especially in the forested and backcountry sections.

Due note 6:

Animals observe Safe Distances: Always maintain a safe and legal distance: 100 yards (91 meters) from bears and wolves, and 25 yards (23 meters) from all other animals, including bison and elk.

Due note 5:

The trail is well-marked and clear and you can’t get lost easily but always when hiking in the wilderness have an electronic map in your phone and bring a paper map with you.

Due note 6:

The road down to the river level is not plowed in winter, and access is closed once the snow falls.

Due note 7:

Bring bug spray with you – Mosquitoes can be active near water in summer.

Due note 8:

Bring with you a good binocular, or even better, a viewing telescope. Many of the most animals are often viewed at a distance. Animals may be far and hard to spot. If you have a viewing telescope a cellphone camera magnetic mount is highly recommended.

Due note 9:

Limited Cell Service – Don't rely on GPS or mobile maps; download offline maps before you go.

My thoughts:

I came here late in the afternoon when all the mountains were covered with mist so the reflection was not as impressive when all was clear but I enjoyed it very much.

I also walk along the river south, a fun walk along the ponds with a nice view side channel of the Snake River. I did not see any animal and returned to my car just when it started to get dark.

What a fun and relaxing afternoon activity !

The visit:

Once you arrive at the parking area at the end of Schwabacher Road and walk to the nearby river, you'll step into a tranquil, slow flowing riverside.

After only a few steps you will get to a location where a slow-moving side channel of the Snake River makes a bend and the Tetons mountains loom dramatically in the background. Here the river is surrounded by cottonwoods, beaver ponds, and wetlands.

The trail follows the ponds for a short time until it reaches its end.

Schwabacher Landing is also a potential prime wildlife area with Beavers and maybe moose frequently grazing in the wetlands. You may even see bears and elks.

Most people are walking here and going back to their car but you can extend this hike by going south.

A flat, easy trail continues south from the main reflection area for about 1 mile, following the river through cottonwood groves and additional beaver ponds. You can go as far as you like before turning back. It’s a perfect walk for kids, families, or anyone not up for a strenuous hike.