Grand Teton National Park Photoguide

by Miles Hecker

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Table of Contents

Fortress of Solitude © Miles Hecker Preparation

Photographic Ethics

Clothing and Personal Items

Equipment

Lodging and Camping

Dining and Food

Grand Teton National Park Photomap

Preparation

Physical Preparation

Photographic sites numbered 1 through 23 on the Teton Photo map are located within a 100 yard or less easy walk from the spot where you can park your vehicle. The majority of these sites, are 100 feet or less from parking. As such, no special physical preparation is needed to photograph these areas. Sites 24, 25 and 26 are located many miles from the nearest parking area. Photographing them requires either a multiday backpacking trip or a very long and strenuous day hike at high altitude. Only you know if you are physically able and equipped to deal with such an adventure. If in doubt, proceed with caution. Teton rescues are very involved and costly. If the NPS determines the hiker was at fault, it will bill the hiker for the rescue operation!

Mental Preparation

The Tetons are part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. As such, they do not have a convenience store or restroom located at every photographic location or stopping area. If you are not prepared to deal with these inconveniences, you have come to the wrong region of our beautiful country.

As wild as this area is in theory, June, July and August are a zoo in this great national park. Some 2 to 3 million tourists pass through during this period. The roads and popular destinations can be quite crowded during this time. If possible, schedule your visit to not coincide with the peak tourist season. If you can do so, you will have a great deal more solitude.

Winter is an especially beautiful time to see this area. The catch of course is the weather conditions. Daytime winter lows in the Teton Valley can easily reach -20 degrees F. If you can deal with this sort of weather, the winter is a great time to visit.

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Photographic Ethics

Ethics

Photographic ethics can be described as the principles of good practice that photographers should employ while carrying out their activities. Most of these principles are based on respectful behaviour, common sense and morality rather than on rules and regulations.

Do No Harm

Nature magazines and televison shows, have been invaluable in raising public awareness of environmental issues . As part of that movement, it's important for photographers to respect natural systems, and to minimize our own impact on those systems. When visiting those systems you have a responsibility to not wantonly affect their ecology.

Some behaviors are obvious. Don't harass wildlife, don't pick flowers or plants from the area. Don't remove rocks or other major artifacts form their resting place. If everyone took home a souvenir from the petrified forrest it would soon be a barren desert.

Ultimately we have to decide for ourselves, what is appropriate when photographing nature. Some people think that if an animal looks up when it sees you, you are harassing it. I don't agree. That said I would never disturb an animal in an intrusive and unusual manner. If it runs from your approach you have obviously gotten a little too close. Watch their behavior and learn to read their body language. It is not all that hard to do, if you open your mind and sensibilities to the non verbal world that they inhabit.

Some photographers think it's improper to garden. That is to remove distractions, such as blades of grass, small rocks or pinecones while photographing a flower. I disagree here too. In the end, you have to ask yourself the following question. Will my actions adversely affect the condition of the area as I found it? If the answer is yes, don't procede with the act.

Millions of people visit the Tetons every year. Take no action which may cause permanent damage on our human time scale. You came here to photograph their beauty, take care that your actions do nothing to lessen it.

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Clothing & Personal Items

The Weather

The Tetons are a high altitude landscape where the weather can change quickly. The old Wyoming saying is, 'If you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes'. From early June to late September when most photographers visit the park, daytime temperatures can range from the low 30's to the high 80's degrees F. Rain and snow are common in June. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Many of these storms are severe and can be accompanied by hail, lightning and strong wind. It is not unusual for the first fall mountain storm to occur in mid September, with temperatures as low as 20 degrees F.

The Sun

The high altitude, dry air and lack of shade, make sun screen and a hat with a brim a wise choice to prevent sunburn. The low humidity combined with the altitude result in a high evapotranspiration rate. Even if you don't seem to sweat, your body will lose a lot of moisture through normal breathing. It is wise to carry a good supply of liquid and drink frequently. Don't drink out of the streams as the Giardia parasite is quite common in the Tetons.

Clothing

The best way to cope with the large temperature swings that occur during the day is layered clothing. It's possible to remain in your personal comfort zone by adding or subtracting layers. These layers include sweaters, microfleece shirts or light jackets .A breathable rain shell type outer layer is the ideal choice for both rain and wind protection. Taking nothing but shorts and a cotton t-shirt on a long hike, is an open invitation to hypothermia, if you get caught out in a sudden afternoon hail storm. A knit cap and light gloves might be appropriate early in the morning when the mercury is still hovering in the low 30's F.

Good footwear is recommended for long hikes. Custom calls for "good hiking boots". However, if you have strong ankles, I and many others find running shoes to work very well on the high grade trail system that covers most of the Tetons. An extra pair of socks might be in order for stream crossings early in the season.

Winter is another story. A heavy hooded parka, long underwear, insulated pants, insulated boots and heavy mitts should be worn to keep warm. Waiting for the sun to rise at temp of -20 degrees F. can be a chilling experience. Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun reflecting off the snow is a wise acquisition. Sunscreen is also recommended if you spend much time out in mid day. The valley floor in the Tetons gets at least 100 inches of snow in a typical winter. That said, snowshoes or X- country skis are absolutely a necessity for any off road travel.

Carrying your gear

I recommend a photo backpack for journeys of more than 100 yards from the car. The styles of photo backpacks vary greatly. I recommend the Lowe Pro and Tamrac brands for their high quality. Go to a good camera shop, if you have one in your area, and check out the various packs in person. Buy the one that fits you best and can carry your gear in a way that suits your tastes.

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Photographic Equipment

35mm SLR's

For landscape shooting on a standard full frame 35mm SLR camera, a 24-70mm zoom lens will work for 90% of the shots within the park. For a crop sensor camera a 17-50mm lens will cover the focal range equivalent to the 24-70mm lens. Add a 70-200mm telephoto lens and you will be able to shoot the remaining selection of grand landscape and detail type landscape shots. The lens requirements of each shot in the photomap is discussed on the individual page dedicated to the shot.

For wildlife shooting something to cover the 100-400mm range will work for near shots on a 35mm full frame camera. Similarly a 70-300mm lens will work on a crop sensor camera. A big lens say a 500mm prime with a 1.4x teleconverter will give you the added reach needed for long distance shots.

For my thoughts on current digital SLR's to use for landscape photography, look here.

Medium Format

If you shoot medium format film in 645 or 6x7 formats, you need to do the simple math required for transforming the full frame 35mm focal lengths in their MF equivalents. For a 645 or 6x6 camera that means lenses covering the focal length range between 40- 120mm will be required to do the job. For 6x7 cameras lenses covering the focal length range between 45- 140mm will be required.

If you shoot digital MF you will have to make adjustments for the crop factor of your specific digital MF back or camera.

Large Format

For Clyde Butcher, Christopher Burkett, and the other Vulcans still shooting LF film as we enter the year 2011, all I can say is Mr Spock and the entire crew of the Starship Enterprise wish that you LF shooters, "Live long and prosper", as you continue your most excellent journey.

Tripods

Tripod, tripod, tripod, just do it!

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Lodging and Camping

Lodging in Jackson

The town of Jackson Hole and its nearby area can accommodate photographers needs with a great range of lodging options. The summer tourist season is busy, rates are high and reservations are highly recommended. On the low end of the scale we have chains such as the Super 8 motel. A basic room there in the summer season starts at $130 per night. On the high end we have refined loding at the Amangani Resort. A basic room there in the summer season starts at about $800 per night. For complete and current information contact the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce.

Lodging in Grand Teton National Park

Lodging is available at six locations within the park. These include Colter Bay Cabins, Dornan's Spur Cabins, Flagg Ranch Resort, Jackson Lake Lodge, Jenny Lake Lodge and Signal Mountain Lodge. My pick of the group for a photographer would be Signal Mountain Lodge. It's rates are relatively reasonable and the up close view of the Teton range is superb. It also is in a great spot for easy and quick driving access to many of the classic photo locations.

Lodging outside Grand Teton NP

There are two lodging options just outside the park proper, nestled along the national forrest. The first is the Hatchet Resort. It is rustic, and reasonably priced. It is also out of the main tourist flow between Yellowstone and Grand Teton NP. As such it is far less hectic and a modicum of solitude is possible. The other is ideal for those on a shoestring budget. It is Grand Teton RV & Cabins. There it is possible to rent a small one room camping cabin that sleeps four, for as little as $69 per night. The view of the Teton range in the distance is also quite good here. Take your sleeping bag and be prepared to share bathrooms and showers however.

Camping

There are six campgrounds within the park. They are Colter Bay Campground, Flagg Ranch Campground,Gros Ventres Campground, Jenny Lake Campground, Lizard Creek Campground and Signal Mountain Campground. Camping rates are generally $20 per night. These campgrounds will fill to capacity each night during the summer season and reservations are highly recommended. For more info look here.

Primitive camping is also possible in the Bridger Teton National Forrest to the east pf the park. Access however, is via gravel roads and there are no improved facilities. You will be roughing it in the wilderness so to speak. Be also adviced that this is bear country and proper storage/handling of food is required. Check the Briger-Teton NFS website for more information.

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Dining and Food

Dining in Jackson

The town of Jackson Hole can accommodate photographers culinary needs with a wide range of dining alternatives. I will attempt to give a quick look at some of what are in my opinion the more reasonable options. Keep in mind that Jackson is a tourist town. Tastes tend to be Americanized, prices tend to be high and and the quality of food and service can change with a rapidly changing staff.

For an excellent out of the ordinary breakfast try Cafe Boheme. Their french toast and fresh fruit crepes are definitely worth a try.

If you enjoy Chinese cuisine I would recommend Ocean City . It is a small family owned Chinese restaurant which offers Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere.

For a high end gourmet Italian meal, go to Il Villagio Osteria. It has top notch classic food, and as you might expect prices to match. If you like Americanized Italian food and a more reasonable price, I would recommend Giovanni's Italian Restaurant . It is an Ollive Garden like Italian restaurant. While not an authentic, old world style restaurant, such as one would find in Little Italy, it is a good example of a type of cuisine many Americans desire.

For Tex-Mex style Mexican food, I would recommend the Merry Piglets Mexican Grill. It serves a style of Mexican food that many Americans enjoy. It also has a laid back rather than pretentious atmosphere

If Thai food is your cup of tea I would definitely recommend Teton Thai . If you're not up for the extra ten mile drive one way out to Teton village to dine at Teton Thai, I would also suggest Bone Aape Thai as a very good second choice.

I'm not much of a steak and chops person, but my friends who are strongly recommend Pearl St. Meat & Fish Co. It started out as a high end butcher shop which only recently added a small restaurant section.

Dining in Grand Teton National Park

Once you leave the town of Jackson, you are metaphorically at least entering the Wyoming wilderness. At the south end of the park the only eating establishments are located in the Dornans complex near Moose, Wyoming. The Pizza Pasta Company has good pizza, pasta and salad. The Moose Trading Post and Deli has an excellent Deli section which makes very good made to order sandwiches. It's a great spot to get something for lunch.

On the north and of the park, near Mt. Moran, Signal Mountain lodge offers you two possibilites for dining. I would definitely recommend the Trapper Grill as a good place to pick up a good sandwich or burger. It's also fairly good for a breakfast stop. I would also recommend Leeks Marina & Pizza as a great place to get pizza. It just might be the most scenic pizza experience of your life!

On the extreme north end of the park, the Flagg Ranch Resort has a very serviceable restaurant. It is your last to get get gas food or snacks before you enter Yellowstone Park which lies directly to its north.

Purchasing Groceries

The town of Jackson has two excellent large supermarkets They are part of the Albertsons and Smiths chain. Both have a wide selection of just about any type of grocery would could hope to purchase. The Albertsons even has a Starbucks located inside. What more could a coffee deprived photographer hope for in the wilderness.

Go to Teton Photo Map Map Key

1. Oxbow Bend 2. Signal Mountain 3. Cunninghams Cabin 4. Osprey 5. Snake River Overlook 6. Schwabachers Landing 7. Teton Buffalo 8. Moultons Barn 9. Gros Ventres Moose 10. Elk Refuge 11. Trumpeter Swans 12. Big Horn Sheep 13. Black Bears 14. Teton Park Road 15. Jenny Lake 16. String Lake 17. Hedricks Pond 18.Teton Mountain Goats 19. Willow Flats 20."Shane" homestead 21. Shadow Mountain 22. Lupine Creek

23. Fall Creek 24. Sunset Lake 25. Death Canyon Shelf 26. Paintbrush Divide Click on the camera icons to visit the photosite

19 1

2 4

26 3 15

5 17

24 7 21 14

6 25

8 20

11 12 18 23

Oxbow Bend

Oxbow Bend Sunrise © Miles Hecker

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This shot works best from early June through early October. The above photo was taken in early June from right at the rivers edge, about 100 yards north of the main parking area. Only three photogrpahers were present on that dreary overcast morning. SEASONS Most fall shots are taken from near the parking area. This location gives you the sweeping Snake River foreground most people enjoy. The famous golden hues of the Oxbow Bend aspen, attract hundreds of photographers in early October. Oxbow Bend is the "Old Faithful" of Teton fall color.

Early sunrise can give you stunning alpenglow with a super saturated film or vivid digital color settings. Sunset will give you the classic high altitude fire in the sky if the TIMES cloud cover is right. The fire is best in mid to late September when the sun sets behind Mt Moran. Moose are often seen at both sunrise and sunset in the river.

LENS: 35-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise, 3 stop split ND at sunset or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap Signal Mountain Lookout

Signal Mountain Sunrise © Miles Hecker

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The view point near the top of the Signal Mountain road is a good place for a panoramic view of the Teton valley at sunset or sunrise. The Wyofoto panorama you see above, was taken from the Signal Mtn overlook. The road is only open to car SEASONS traffic during the summer. Coyotes and waterfowl are often seen at the ponds just south of the mountain, which can be reached on foot. In spring, blue grouse are often seen near the overlook.

Sunrise and sunset are best for wildlife work. Sunrise is best for landscape shots. TIMES Dress warmly, it can be windy and cold at the look out point. The image seen above is a two shot panorama made at 50mm focal length on a full frame DSLR.

LENS: 28-50mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or sunset

Slide films: Fuji Provia 100F or Velvia, Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap Cunninghams Cabin

Cunninghams Cabin Sunset ©Nancy Patrick

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Pierce Cuningham is the Teton rancher who gave birth to the idea of Grand Teton National Park. For five decades he lived in his cabin on the valley floor. The area SEASONS around Cunninghams cabin looks best in winter and early summer. The sage brush flats in which it sits look brown and uninspiring for most of the year. The cabin itself is quaint, but not a visual spectacle.

The cabin can be visited any time of year. For the panorama shot of the valley, early morning light is best in the summer or fall. In twilight, in the months of February and TIMES November the sky and clouds over the Grand Teton often take on a warm alpenglow in the minutes that follow sunset. The above photo was shot at 70mm focal length.

LENS: 28-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 3 stop split ND at sunset or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap Osprey Nest

Buffalo Fork Osprey © Miles Hecker

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This Osprey nest sits in a box high atop the high voltage transmission line on the Buffalo Fork of the Snake River near Moran junction

The Osprey pair builds their nest in late May. The chicks hatch in early June and SEASONS grow through out the summer . They mature quickly and migrate south with their parents by late August. If you are patient, you can watch the parents coming and going as they hunt for fish. Osprey can dive as deeply as 10 feet underwater to make a catch .and are the best avian fisherman in North America.

Osprey an be seen perched near their nest throughout the day. Like most wildlife TIMES they are most active in early morning and late afternoon.

LENS: 600-800mm for crop type sensors LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: not needed

FILMS Not recommended.

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map Snake River Overlook

-10 degrees at Snake River Overlook revisited © Miles Hecker

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Snake River overlook was made famous by Ansel Adams in his national parks series of photos. It is usually photographed while green in the month of June. Personally I find these shots pale when viewed beside the surreal glow of a winter sunrise. Be prepared for temperatures of 10 to 20 below fahrenheit if you choose to SEASONS capture that glow.

The above shot was taken on a very cold winters morning. It was -10 degrees fahrenheit at the overlook. I was there with one other brave soul. For a brief period of about one minute, mother nature smiled on us and the above photo was captured.

Ansel Adams took his famous photo in late afternoon just before sunset, as the sun was about to drop behind the Grand Teton. It is very difficult to find the clouds in just TIMES the right position to make that shot work. It is far easier to get the typical sunrise shot in the early summer or better yet the dead of winter. The above shot was taken at a focal length of 38mm on a full frame camera.

LENS: 35-60mm for 35mm camera, 24-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop soft split ND at sunrise, 3 stop split ND at sunset or HDR

Slide films: Provia 100F or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Schwabachers Landing

A Pool with a View © Nancy Patrick

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The beaver ponds that create the classic mirror shot of the Tetons are open from late spring to early fall. Some prefer the golden glow of the fall colors to the very green look of late spring. The site is jammed in fall. So get there especially early to get a good spot. It is not uncommon for the first photographer to arrive two hours before sunrise! SEASONS The green shot looks best from early June to early July. The Tetons in spring are snow covered and look more majestic than in most fall shots. It is also less crowded in spring, but be prepared to rise early. The alpine glow starts at about 5:30AM this time of year.

Most people go for the technicolor, alpenglow show just as the sun hits the Grand Teton at sunrise. A good bank of clouds adds to the overall drama of the event. Don't run away though, sometimes the soft light of the golden hour can be TIMES interesting in its own right.

The above shot was taken at about 40mm focal length equivalent on a 645 MF camera.

LENS: 28-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

FILMS Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Grand Teton Buffalo

Motherhood © Miles Hecker

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The Grand Teton Park buffalo herd can be seen throughout the year as it wanders from place to place in search of forage. It is most often found in the area between SEASONS Cunninghams cabin, antelope flats, and the town of Kelly. In the winter it is usually on the far eastern side of the elk refuge. Inquire at the NPS office for their current location.

Like many animals buffalo are most active in the hours just after sunrise and just TIMES before sunset. Buffalo are extremely dangerous and historically kill many more tourists than grizzly bears. Keep your distance. They are not cows!

LENS: 200-500 mm for 35mm camera, 100-300mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: polarizer in winter to cut glare on the snow.

FILMS Slide films: Provia 100F or Kodak E100SW

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Moultons Barn

Spring time in the Rockies © Miles Hecker

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June is the time for this classic shot of the south barn in front of the Tetons. The grass is vibrant at this time and makes for a carpet of green. The northern barn is spectacular on an overcast or snowy day. SEASONS Very few people shoot the barns in winter, but dare to be be different! You'll have to ski or snowshoe in about a mile from December to February to get the shot. The main access road to Mormon row is closed during this time.

Sunrise to mid morning for the classic south barn shot. The sun flames the barn when it finally clears the hills behind you. Shooting the shot before this happens would require a ND filter shaped liked the barn or a composite image. TIMES For the north barn, try sunrise for the standard shot or try shooting from the back at sunset in winter for something different. The above shot was taken with a 30mm focal length on a full frame 35mm camera.

LENS: 28-100mm for 35mm camera, 17-85mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop soft split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map Grand Teton Moose

Where's Rocky? © Nancy Patrick

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The area along the Gros Ventres River from Gros Ventres junction all the way east to the Slide Lake is excellent moose habitat. Moose can be seen all year long in this region. The single best spot is probably the Gros Ventres campground. SEASONS Moose can also be seen frequently in the summer at Oxbow Bend to the north. Moose sitings were once very common. Unfortunaely the thriving wolf population has cut the Teton moose herd to half its former size in the last decade.

Like most animals moose are most active in the hours just after sunrise and just TIMES before sunset. Moose can be dangerous and historically kill many more tourists than grizzly bears. Keep you distance. They are not cows!

LENS: 200-500 mm for 35mm camera, 100-400mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: Provia 100F or Kodak E100SW

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Grand Teton Elk

Waiting for Santa © Miles Hecker

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TheTeton/Yellowstone elk herd is one of the largest in the world. It numbers in the many thousands. It winters in the National Elk Refuge just north of Jackson. As the SEASONS winter snows melt, it migrates north into Yellowstone and east into the Gros Ventres mountains.

Like most animals elk are most active in the hours just after sunrise and just before sunset. Elk can be are extremely dangerous and even cows with calves will attack to TIMES defend their young. Keep your distance! A 400mm lens on a crop sensor camera was used to take the above image.

LENS: 200-500 mm for 35mm camera, 100-400mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: polarizer in winter to cut glare on the snow.

FILMS Slide films: Provia 100F or Kodak E100SW

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Trumpeter Swans

Another Pretty Face © Miles Hecker

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The trumpeter swan is the largest species of waterfowl in North America. These majestic birds can be found through out the Teton-Yellowstone ecosystem. The easiest place to find them is on the elk refuge where US 26 crosses Flat Creek just SEASONS north of the town of Jackson.

If they are not on the elk refuge, they may be in hiding on the ponds near the Rafter- J subdivision just west of Jackson.

Swans are generally active throughout the day. The above photo was taken with a TIMES 300mm lens on a crop sensor camera on Flat Creek. A fast shutter speed of 1/1000 sec or better is needed to stop the action seen above.

LENS: 200-500 mm for 35mm camera, 100-400mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: Provia 400F

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Big Horn Sheep

King ot the Hill © Miles Hecker

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The back side of elk refuge is the best place to find big horn sheep in the park.

In winter the Gros Ventres sheep herd sleeps on top of Miller Butte. In mid morning, SEASONS as the sun lights the small canyon to the south east of the butte, they descend to the valley below and feed in the grassy meadow. This ram is about to start his descent from the top of the butte.

Big horn sheep are generally active throughout the day. The above photo was taken TIMES with a 800mm lens on a crop sensor camera. A fast shutter speed of 1/500 sec or better is needed to stop the action seen above.

LENS: 200-800 mm for 35mm camera, 200-800mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: not recommended

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Black Bears

Chillin Out © Nancy Patrick

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Blacks bear can be found throughout the Teton/Yellowstone ecosystem. Unlike their grizzly cousins, they seldom attack humans. One of their favorite foods is the wild hackberry crop that ripens in September. They can most often be seen on the road that runs between Moose and Teton Village at this time of year snacking on berries.. SEASONS The fellow seen above got too hot on a balmy September day and chose to take a dip in the pond next to the road. Even though he is cinnamon color, he is a black bear, not a grizzly.

Bears are generally active throughout the day. The above photo was taken with a 300mm lens on a crop sensor camera on Flat Creek. A fast shutter speed of 1/1000 TIMES sec or better is needed to stop the action seen above. A 500mm lens was used on a full frame 35mm camera to take the photo seen above.

LENS: 200-500 mm for 35mm camera, 100-400mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: Provia 400F

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Cottonwood Creek Site

Cottonwood Creek Solstice © Miles Hecker

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The road between the Bradley Lake trailhead and Jenny Lake sits right at the base of the Teton uplift. Here the mountains rise over 7000 feet from the plains. In summer one can get an in your face shot of the massive granite towering peaks overhead. SEASONS In winter, swirling snow storms come and go on a regular basis as you ski under them. The peace and quiet of the alpine winter can be experienced first hand by anyone willing to ski along the road, in the shadow of the mountains nearby.

Sunrise on a sunny day works well. In over cast weather who knows when the storm might dramatically break and a scene similar to the one above unfold. TIMES Mid day light on the snow is very harsh. While cheerful and uplifting it is photographically speaking, not desirable. A 135mm lens on a 35mm full frame camera was used for the above photo.

LENS: 28-135mm for 35mm cameras, 17-85mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake White Columbine © Nancy Patrick

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The Jenny Lake area looks best when it's at it's greenest and the wildflowers are in bloom. For most years this takes place from mid to late June. Hidden Falls on the far side of the lake is a popular photo spot. It is best shot on an overcast day when the highlights in the cascades won't become 'blown out'. SEASONS In my opinion the hike there and the wildflower show you see on the west side of the lake beats the falls as a photo attraction. In late June the white columbines and lady slipper orchids can be quite photogenic.

The wildflowers are best photographed in the shade. Take a golden reflector or filter TIMES to remove the blue cast. The classic westward looking shot across the lake shot is best near sunrise. A 50mm macro lens was used for the shot seen above.

LENS: 28-50mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 81B for macro work in shade or a gold reflector.

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

String Lake

Any time from just before sun rise to several hours after sunrise can result in interesting light and reflections.

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String Lake is unique in that it can yield excellent pictures of both the main Teton group and Mt Moran. If you look north from a middle point on the east shore of the lake a wonderful mirrored image of Mt Moran can be seen. This is the image you see in the above photo. SEASONS If you look south from the same point an excellent view of the Grand Teton and the cathedral group is visible. Any time from early summer to mid fall can yield a good image.

Any time from just before sun rise to several hours after sunrise can result in TIMES interesting light and reflections. The above image was taken on a 35mm full frame camera with a 21mm lens.

LENS: 20-50mm for 35mm camera, 10-20mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photo Map

Hedricks Pond Overlook

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A small bench to the west of Shadow Mountain rises about 200 feet above the sage brush flats that make up the Teton floor. The dirt road that leads up to the Hedricks Pond overlook requires a high clearance 4WD vehicle for the last several hundred yards. SEASONS On days where the lower valley is shrouded in early morning fog, it is possible to rise above the fog and see the valley at this overlook. This point is accessible by car only in summer and early fall.

Early sunrise can give you stunning view of the entire valley. This view is especially TIMES impressive on a foggy day. The above photo was taken at 35mm focal length on a full frame camera.

LENS: 28-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Teton Mountain Goats

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The Palisades backcountry which is in the Snake River Range, just south of Teton pass is home to a sizable herd of mountain goats year round. In the summer these goats often range north in search of forage and can be seen at the southern end of SEASONS the Tetons.

In winter they can be seen just off the main highway about one mile east of Alpine Junction. They will perform for you as they browse for forage on the snowy hillside.

Goats seem to be a bit more active during the day than most other herbivores. In summer they are usally seen high up on mounatin passes. The breeze on the crest TIMES of these passes keeps away many of the summer bugs that plague animals living lower down in the alpine environment.

LENS: 500-800mm for 35mm camera, 500-800mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: Provia 400X

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Willow Flats

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The pull out for WIllow Flats is about 300 yards north of the junction between the Rockefeller Parkway and the Teton Park road. If you hike west from the parking lot you'll see a little trail descending down the hill. Stop near the bottom of the hill and you will see a view much like the one above. SEASONS The above shot was made with an 8"x10" view camera using the 35mm equivalent of a 50mm lens. It was made combining by 4 overlapping scans of 8"x10" sheets of film in Photoshop. You can stop in Daivds' gallery in Jackson and see a large platinum print of it hanging on the wall.

Early morning on many a day during the month of June will give you dramatic cloud cover. This is the chance to try out that panorama bracket you have ordered for just TIMES such an occasion. Get it out and shoot the multi-shot pano like the one you see above.

LENS: about 50mm for 35mm camera, 30mm for crop sensor camera LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: not needed for overcast light

FILMS Negative films: the B&W film of your choice

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap Shane Homestead

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The movie "Shane" is probably one of the classic westerns of all time. Good against evil, the weak against the powerfull, a simple allegory cast in a magnificent setting.

SEASONS As many of you know, Shane was shot in Grand Teton NP. The Starett homestead site is in fact just outside the town of Kelly. I enjoy it most in the fall. The homestead is in the fall of its' existence. Visit it before the wind and sun wash it from our world.

Early morning on an overcast day is the perfect time to photograph these old cabins. TIMES A 24mm lens on a 35mm full frame film camera was used to make the above shot..

LENS: 24-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND for bright skies or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap Shadow Mountain

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. Shadow Mountain rises over 1200 feet above the sage brush flats that make up the Teton floor. In early July of a wet year the wildflower display in the open meadows near the top can be quite prolific. The dirt road that leads up Shadow Mt. discourages the casual tourist and if you venture up it, you'll discover far more SEASONS solitude than on the valley floor below.

The above shot was taken with an 8"x10" view camera using the 35mm equivalent of a 28mm lens. You can stop in Daivds' gallery in Jackson and count the wildflowers on thte 32"x40" print on the wall!

Early sunrise can give you stunning alpenglow with a super saturated film or vivid digital color settings. Wait for a morning with light clouds to maximize the alpenglow. TIMES You want to scout out your spot the day before as things can be confusing in the dark.

LENS: 28-50mm for 35mm camera, 17-35mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Lupine Creek

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This shot works best from the second to last week of June. The above photo was taken in early June. This spot is very sensitive and has been well guarded by local photographers.

Although it is only 80 feet off a gravel road, several years ago, some idiots drove out SEASONS across the meadow half way to it. You can still see the tracks in the google satellite image. We reported them to the NPS and they were found. Clicking the above image will take you to a private google map that will enable you to find the location. Tread lightly, use good judgement and please do not post the GPS coordinates on the web, so that the hoards can overwhelm it . Your grandchildrens ability to share this spot depends upon your responsible actions.

This shot is best taken before dawn as the earth shadow casts itself upon the twilight sky. The alpine glow seen in the shot above has only been seen once in several dozen visits. TIMES In June the earth shadow starts at about 5:30AM and lasts for maybe 5 minutes. It is best to arrive at the site by about 5:15AM so you have time to set up. The above shot was taken at 35mm focal length on a full frame camera.

LENS: 28-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Fall Creek Pastoral

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Fall Creek road takes off south on the west side of the town of Wilson. About one mile south of Wilson the rolling country starts to resemble New England more than Wyoming. SEASONS In the winter the snow covered gentle hills create a pastoral setting that is at once calming and surreal. A skilled eye can create lovely detailed landscape shots that seem as if they might be taken in the island of Hokkaido, Japan.

Early morning can give you delicate surreal light for snowscapes. The view is TIMES especially impressive on a frosty day. The above photo was taken at 90mm focal length on a full frame camera.

LENS: 70-200mm for 35mm camera, 50-150mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Sunset Lake

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Sunset Lake is not a spot that most people have heard of. The reason for that is simple, it's a long way off the beaten path. It is in fact a 12 mile hike from the nearest trailhead on the Idaho side of the Tetons. It is a pretty, but not spectacular little lake. It does have a secret, wildflowers. In the first SEASONS week of August the best wildflower displays in all of Wyoming can be found around sunset lake .

If you love wildflowers, plan a backpacking trip to Sunset Lake the first week in August. It is in the national forrest so no permit is needed.

LENS: 70-200mm for 35mm camera, 50-150mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: none needed

FILMS Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Death Canyon Shelf

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Death Canyon shelf is not a spot that most people have heard of. The reason for that is simple, it's a long way off the beaten path. It is in fact a 10 mile hike from the nearest trailhead on the Wyoming or Idaho side of the Tetons. It is a somewhat barren shelf with a spectacular view of the southwest side of the Tetons. The wild flowers, while not quite as spectacular as the Sunset Lake area can really be SEASONS delightful the first week in August.

If you enjoy solitude and majestic views, plan a backpacking trip to Death Canyon shelf the first week in August. It is in the Grand Teton NP so a backcountry camping permit is needed. Apply for one the day before you leave at the permit cabin at Jenny Lake.

Sunrise or sunset can work lightwise. It depends more on the cloud cover then TIMES anything else. The above shot was taken at a 120mm equivalent focal length on a crop sensor camera.

LENS: 28-200mm for 35mm camera, 17-130mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: 2 stop split ND at sunrise, sunrise or HDR

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap

Paintbrush Divide

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The view of Cascade Canyon from just below Paintbrush Divide is one the typical tourist is not likely to see. Although it can be seen on a day trip, it's a long way off the beaten path. If you take the ferry across Jenny Lake, you arrive at the Hidden Falls and Cascade Canyon trail head. It is in fact, an 8.5 mile hike, one way, from the start of that trailhead to the point above Lake Solitude where the picture seen above was taken. SEASONS If you take a light pack with minimal photo gear and are in good shape, you can arrive at this very scenic destination in between 4-5 hours. Spend an hour to compose your masterpiece, eat lunch, and start the journey back to Jenny Lake. If you are adventurous and wish to see a view that only mountaineers normally enjoy, this is the trip for you. No backcountry permit is needed if you do this as a dayhike.

Early to mid afternoon works best for this shot. . It depends more on the cloud cover TIMES then anything else. The above photo is a two shot panorama, that was taken at a 28mm equivalent focal length on a crop sensor camera.

LENS: 28-70mm for 35mm camera, 17-40mm for crop sensor cameras LENS & FILTERS FILTERS: a polarizer might be helpful if the light is harsh

Slide films: Velvia 100 or Kodak E100SW FILMS Negative films: Fuji Reala or Konica Impressa

DIGITAL CAMERAS See: Digital cameras for landscape work. Go Back to Teton Photomap