Top 6 Mountain Passes in Teton County

For breathtaking vistas, Teton Pass Summit offers stunning views of Jackson Hole and the Teton Valley. Another highly-rated spot is Paintbrush Divide, which provides panoramic views of Mount Moran, Mount Woodring, and Rockchuck Peak from over 10,700 feet.

Yes, Teton Pass (via Wyoming Highway 22) and Togwotee Pass (via US Highways 26 and 287) are both paved mountain roads. Teton Pass offers a scenic overlook of Jackson Hole, while Togwotee Pass provides panoramic views of the Teton Range and is a gateway to Grand Teton National Park from eastern Wyoming.

The region offers a wide range of activities. Near many passes, you can find excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and backcountry skiing. For specific routes, you can explore options like those found in the Hiking in Teton County guide or the Cycling in Teton County guide.

The best time largely depends on your desired activity. For hiking and enjoying wildflowers, mid-July to early August is ideal. For winter sports like snowmobiling and backcountry skiing, Togwotee Pass is renowned during heavy snowfall months. Be aware that some high-elevation pedestrian passes can hold snow until mid-July, potentially requiring specialized equipment.

While many passes involve strenuous climbs, the Teton Pass - Jackson Hole Community Pathway summit offers a more gradual, car-free route on the Old Pass Road, which is an intermediate trail. For easier hikes in the general area, you can consult the Easy hikes in Teton County guide.

Two Ocean Pass is notable for its unique geological feature called "Parting of the Waters," where a stream divides, with water flowing to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Hurricane Pass also offers views of glacial features, with Schoolroom Glacier located nearby.

Teton Pass is a paved mountain road with turnouts for viewing. However, it has steep grades (up to 10%) and is often closed in winter for avalanche control. Travel trailers are advised to use an alternate route. Always check current road conditions before planning your trip, especially during winter or after significant weather events.

Yes, many areas around the mountain passes are rich in wildlife. Togwotee Pass is known for bear viewing in the summer. The Gros Ventre Wilderness, adjacent to Teton County, provides outstanding habitat for big game like bighorn sheep, elk, deer, wolves, grizzly bears, and bison.

Phillips Pass and Fox Creek Pass are significant points along the Teton Crest Trail. Hurricane Pass is also accessible via the Teton Crest Trail, offering iconic Teton views.

Static Peak Divide, at 10,800 feet, is the highest point along any maintained trail in Grand Teton National Park, offering exceptionally challenging hikes and panoramic views. Paintbrush Divide, at 10,720 feet, is another strenuous option, often part of the iconic Paintbrush Canyon–Cascade Canyon Loop.

Moose Basin Divide, located in a remote northern section of Grand Teton National Park, is ideal for those seeking a secluded multi-day backpacking experience. Two Ocean Pass also offers an unparalleled deep wilderness experience, requiring a strenuous 20-mile hike or horseback ride to reach.

For strenuous hikes within Grand Teton National Park, such as those to Hurricane Pass, Static Peak Divide, or Paintbrush Divide, backcountry camping permits are typically required for overnight stays. It's always advisable to check with the Jenny Lake Ranger Station or the park's official website for the most current conditions and permit regulations before your trip.