A message by Great Western Expeditions
By Devin Dwyer · Teton Valley Local
JACKSON, Wyo. – If you’re planning a family trip to Jackson Hole, I’m about to share something that completely changed how I think about doing the parks with kids.
A few weeks ago we booked a private family safari into Grand Teton National Park with Great Western Expeditions. And as a local mom who knows these mountains, I’ll admit I had doubts. Too much time in a vehicle. Too much waiting. A toddler meltdown somewhere around mile three. I am so happy to report I was completely wrong.
The day started at Jackson Town Square — our guides David and Vinnie met us there, the kids ran off some energy under the antler arches, we grabbed ice cream, and the whole thing felt genuinely easy before we’d even entered the park. That low-key start sets the tone perfectly for little ones.
We weren’t far down the road when David pulled over, set up a high-powered spotting scope, and pointed it at a hillside. A newborn moose calf was nursing right there. My kids went completely quiet. If you know my kids, you know that says everything. That single moment was worth the whole day.
From there: a drop-off right at the Craig Thomas Visitor Center (no parking lot death march with a stroller — bless), a gorgeous outdoor picnic lunch that my kids actually sat down and ate, the Jenny Lake shuttle boat across the water to Hidden Falls, moose spotted on the trail, kids climbing every rock in sight. By the time we got back to the dock everyone was happy and tired in exactly the right way.
But the team saved the best for last. String Lake at sunset — shallow, crystal-clear, perfect for kids — while Great Western quietly set up a gourmet dinner on the beach behind us. My girls splashed while we watched the sun drop behind the Tetons and ate the best lakeside meal of our lives.
Here’s the thing: if you think guided tours are too structured for little kids, think again. Letting a professional team handle the logistics — the parking, the food, the route, the wildlife — means you actually get to be present with your family instead of managing everyone. That’s the real gift.
This is exactly how you do a day in Grand Teton with kids.
