Jackson Lake Dam
Iconic dam in Grand Teton NP offering stunning Teton mountain views, picnic spots, and fishing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Jackson Lake Dam
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic dam in Grand Teton NP offering stunning Teton mountain views, picnic spots, and fishing.
"Spectacular views and a great place to picnic, listen to the roar of the water, and try your luck fishing!"
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Head here for sunrise; it's less crowded than other popular spots and offers stunning views.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk the pathways on both sides of the dam for different, spectacular perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Teton Views
Jackson Lake Dam
Breathtaking vistas of the Grand Teton mountain range reflected in Jackson Lake. A photographer's dream!
The Roaring Falls
Below the Dam
Experience the powerful cascade of water below the dam. Listen to the roar and feel the mist.
Picnic Paradise
Designated Picnic Areas
Enjoy a meal with an unparalleled backdrop. Plenty of parking and clean facilities make it ideal.
Fishing Hotspot
Downstream of the Dam
Cast a line for cutthroat trout in the whitewater. Bring sturdy gear for the best chance at big catches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Dam Access & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Head here for sunrise; it's less crowded than other popular spots and offers stunning views.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk the pathways on both sides of the dam for different, spectacular perspectives.
🎣 Fish the Whitewater
For big catches, try fishing in the whitewater below the dam. Lots of snags, but worth it!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Ample parking and picnic benches make this a perfect spot for a scenic lunch.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Sunrise
Head here for sunrise; it's less crowded than other popular spots and offers stunning views.
🚶♀️ Explore Both Sides
Walk the pathways on both sides of the dam for different, spectacular perspectives.
🎣 Fish the Whitewater
For big catches, try fishing in the whitewater below the dam. Lots of snags, but worth it!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Ample parking and picnic benches make this a perfect spot for a scenic lunch.
💧 Skip Stones & Balance Rocks
A fun activity for all ages by the river below the dam.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Jackson Lake Dam for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Grand Teton mountains and the expansive lake. It's highlighted as an excellent spot for picnics, photography, and enjoying the powerful roar of the water below the dam. While some find fishing challenging due to snags, others report successful catches of large cutthroat trout. The availability of parking and clean restrooms adds to its appeal as a convenient and scenic stop.
"We were looking for a place to picnic and fish. All other spots were really crowded. Not many at the lower parking lot. Had a double pit toilet that was clean. The fishing under the falls was very good. Lots of snags, but that's where we found the big ones. Two 24 inch fine spotted cutthroat trout. Many smaller ones, too. Saw mostly fly-fishermen, also, they were doing good. Bring some big gear and fish the white water at the falls."
4Speed Gearbox
"A great picnic area. Plenty of parking, bathrooms and picnic benches. Gorgeous views and highly recommend to walk the pathway on both sides of the road. Different views from both sides and you can see below the dam into the falling water. A great place to skip stones on the river and balance rocks! Highly recommend place to stop even for a quick stroll."
Ash Jafri
"What a great spot to listen to the roar of the water. You need to walk on both sides. The views are spectacular from either side. Be sure to walk down the stairs on the dam side to take in the views. We had a short walk from the parking lot. The restrooms were decent also."
Alice Weaver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jackson Lake Dam is located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. It's accessible by car via the main park roads. Many visitors stop here as part of a scenic drive through the park.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Jackson Lake Dam, including a lower parking lot that can be less crowded.
Absolutely! Walking paths are available on both sides of the dam, offering different and spectacular views.
Yes, the Jackson Lake Dam is a key structure within Grand Teton National Park in northwestern Wyoming.
For the best experience, walk the pathways on both sides of the dam and consider walking down the stairs on the dam side for closer views of the falling water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jackson Lake Dam is located within Grand Teton National Park. You will need a park entrance pass to enter the park.
The dam itself is always accessible, but visitor facilities like restrooms are generally available during daylight hours. Park hours apply.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Teton National Park. Fees vary for private vehicles, motorcycles, and walk-in/bike-in visitors. Check the official NPS website for current pricing.
While the dam structure is always there, access to the park and surrounding areas can be affected by winter conditions. It's best to check road status and weather forecasts during the off-season.
Generally, visitors can walk on the dam and explore the surrounding areas. However, always be mindful of safety barriers and any posted signs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning views of the Tetons, walk along the dam, have a picnic, skip stones, balance rocks, and fish downstream.
Yes, there are restrooms available, including double pit toilets that are generally clean.
Absolutely! It's a prime spot for capturing panoramic views of the Grand Tetons, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Yes, visitors can walk on the dam itself, offering unique vantage points of the lake and mountains.
While not guaranteed, you might spot elk migrating to the nearby elk refuge, especially during certain seasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Jackson Lake Lodge, located nearby, offers dining options with impressive views. You can grab lunch, dinner, or even coffee there. +1
Yes, it's a fantastic picnic spot with plenty of parking and picnic benches.
Pack easy-to-eat items that don't require much preparation. Sandwiches, salads, and snacks are ideal for enjoying the scenic views.
Jackson Lake Lodge has a cafe with arguably one of the most impressive views in the United States.
There are no direct food services at the dam itself, but the nearby Jackson Lake Lodge provides dining options. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the Grand Tetons and the dam.
The dam itself, the panoramic views of the Teton Range, and the cascading water below the dam are all highly photogenic.
Experiment with different angles from both sides of the dam. Consider using a wide-angle lens for the expansive landscapes.
Yes, if you're lucky, you might spot wildlife like elk. Be patient and maintain a safe distance.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is helpful for low-light sunrise/sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While fishing might require more patience, even younger children can enjoy watching the water cascade from the dam and looking for wildlife. The sheer scale of the dam and the mountains can spark curiosity and wonder in kids. It's a great place to break up a scenic drive and let everyone stretch their legs.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Trout
Many Redditors suggest bringing larger tackle to handle the powerful water and the potential for significant catches.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for sunrise or sunset to capture the best light, with the mountains bathed in golden or rosy hues. Explore both sides of the dam and the pathways below to find unique compositions. The reflections on Jackson Lake can be stunning, especially during calm mornings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Jackson Lake Dam
The dam's construction created the expansive Jackson Lake, a vital reservoir for irrigation and a stunning centerpiece of Grand Teton National Park. Its presence has shaped the surrounding environment and continues to be a focal point for visitors. While its primary function is practical, the dam has become an iconic landmark, offering visitors a unique perspective on both natural beauty and human ingenuity. The sheer scale of the structure against the backdrop of the Teton Range is a sight to behold.
Many visitors are surprised by its dual role as a functional power source and a scenic attraction. It's important to note that the dam's impact on the environment, including water levels, has been a topic of discussion, with some observing changes like 'Jackson Mudflats' due to fluctuating water levels.
Fishing Below the Dam: A Cutthroat Challenge
Many visitors recommend using 'big gear' to tackle the conditions and the potential for substantial catches.
For those new to fishing in the Tetons, the Jackson Dam area is a good starting point, even if initial attempts yield no luck.
Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles
The way the golden light bathes the Grand Teton mountains, casting long shadows and vibrant hues across Jackson Lake, is truly unforgettable. Many visitors find these times to be less crowded than midday, offering a more serene experience. Compared to other popular viewpoints like Schwabacher Landing or the Moulton Barns, the area around the dam is often noted for being less congested, providing a more intimate encounter with the park's beauty.
This makes it an ideal spot to set up your camera or simply sit and soak in the breathtaking scenery without the hustle and bustle. Whether you're an early riser or prefer to catch the day's final glow, the dam offers a unique vantage point. The reflections on the water, combined with the majestic peaks, create a photographic opportunity that is both classic and captivating.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit