The breathtaking road to Teton Peak in Wyoming
Teton Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,643m (8,671ft) above sea level, located in Teton County, in the US state of Wyoming. Situated at the southern tip of the world-famous Teton Range, the peak offers one of the most strategic vantage points over the Jackson Hole valley and the nearby Idaho border.
Where is Teton Peak Located?
The peak lies within the Bridger-Teton National Forest in western Wyoming. It sits directly above the Teton Pass (Highway 22), a legendary mountain pass known for its steep 10% grades and frequent winter closures due to avalanches.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 2,643m (8,671ft) |
| Distance | 0.96 km (0.6 miles) |
| Max Gradient | 14% |
| Starting Point | Teton Pass (Hwy 22) |
| Access | Restricted (Gated) / Authorized only |
| Wildlife Hazard | Grizzly Bears (Carry Bear Spray) |
What’s at the Summit?
The summit is a critical hub for regional communications, hosting multiple towers and facilities that serve Teton County and eastern Idaho. Because of its height and unobstructed line of sight, it is often referred to locally as the Teton Pass Radio Site.
The Drive to Teton Peak: Steep Ramps and Restrictions
The road to the summit is a short but brutal primitive track.
- Surface: Totally unpaved, consisting of loose gravel and dirt.
- Gradient: The climb is exceptionally steep, hitting a maximum gradient of 14% on several ramps.
- Access: The road is currently blocked by a metallic barrier and is officially restricted to authorized vehicles (maintenance crews for the towers and forest rangers). However, it remains a popular and challenging route for hikers and mountain bikers.
How Long is the Road to Teton Peak?
The ascent begins at the crest of the Teton Pass. From the parking area, the track is only 0.96km (0.6 miles) long, but it packs a punch with 68 meters of vertical gain in that short distance. The average gradient is 7.08%, though it feels much steeper due to the high altitude and thin air.
Safety and Wildlife
This is Grizzly Bear country. Whether you are hiking up or driving a service vehicle, carrying bear spray is essential in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Additionally, the road is buried under heavy snow for most of the year, typically becoming accessible only from late June to September.