Oxbow Bend Grand Teton
Iconic viewpoint in Grand Teton NP, famous for sunrise reflections of Mt. Moran and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for reflections
Oxbow Bend Grand Teton
Best Time
Best light for reflections
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint in Grand Teton NP, famous for sunrise reflections of Mt. Moran and abundant wildlife.
"Oxbow Bend is literally right off the main road and it is one of the most beautiful, peaceful places on earth."
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Early
Beat the crowds and capture the best light for sunrise photos. Aim to be there 30 minutes before dawn.
🔭 Bring Binoculars & Zoom Lens
Essential for spotting wildlife like birds, otters, and potentially larger animals from a safe distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunrise Reflections
Oxbow Bend Turnout
Witness the majestic Teton Range mirrored in the calm waters of the Snake River at dawn.
Abundant Birdlife
Snake River
Spot ospreys, bald eagles, and herons fishing in the river, a true delight for birdwatchers.
Potential Wildlife Encounters
Surrounding Wetlands
Keep an eye out for river otters, moose, and even bears in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunrise Magic
Wildlife Viewing Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Early
Beat the crowds and capture the best light for sunrise photos. Aim to be there 30 minutes before dawn.
🔭 Bring Binoculars & Zoom Lens
Essential for spotting wildlife like birds, otters, and potentially larger animals from a safe distance.
🤫 Respect the Quiet
Keep noise levels down, especially during sunrise, to enhance the peaceful experience for everyone.
🚗 Easy Access from Road
Oxbow Bend is conveniently located right off the main road, making it accessible without a hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Early
Beat the crowds and capture the best light for sunrise photos. Aim to be there 30 minutes before dawn.
🔭 Bring Binoculars & Zoom Lens
Essential for spotting wildlife like birds, otters, and potentially larger animals from a safe distance.
🤫 Respect the Quiet
Keep noise levels down, especially during sunrise, to enhance the peaceful experience for everyone.
🚗 Easy Access from Road
Oxbow Bend is conveniently located right off the main road, making it accessible without a hike.
📸 Photography Hotspot
A favorite for photographers, especially for sunrise shots and capturing the Teton reflections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Oxbow Bend for its stunning sunrise views and iconic reflections of the Teton Range. It's a highly accessible spot for wildlife viewing, particularly birds and otters. Some visitors note that it can get crowded, especially for sunrise, and advise respecting the quiet atmosphere.
"Late April of 2025 we visited Grand Teton National Park and it did not disappoint. Got to see Bear 610, Blondie, Moose and much more than anticipated. Tetons are absolutely Beautiful. We will be back soon to enjoy once again."
Brad Thompson
"We were here early on Saturday morning June 1st, 2024 to capture the sunrise. A very beautiful and popular place so if you're here for photos, be sure to come early! It was our last day in The Grand Teton National Park. About 30 minutes later we also photographed Grizzly 399 and her cub, Spirit making their way across a meadow."
RKROLLART
"Great place to watch the sunrise!!!! But please dont show up a 4:30 am and have loud conversations that ruin the moment for everyone else."
Shaun C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oxbow Bend is easily accessible by car, located directly off the main road (Teton Park Road) near Moran Junction. There's a dedicated turnout for parking.
Oxbow Bend is about a 30-40 minute drive north from Jackson Hole, making it a convenient stop on a scenic drive through the park.
Public transportation options are very limited within Grand Teton National Park. Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most practical way to reach Oxbow Bend.
Yes, there is a designated turnout and parking area at Oxbow Bend, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak sunrise and sunset times.
From Jackson, take Teton Park Road north. Oxbow Bend is well-marked and situated along this scenic route. It's often visited in conjunction with other popular spots like Schwabacher Landing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Oxbow Bend is located within Grand Teton National Park, so you will need a valid park entrance pass to access the area.
There are no additional fees to park at the Oxbow Bend turnout beyond the standard Grand Teton National Park entrance fee.
Oxbow Bend is an outdoor viewpoint and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the best viewing times are during sunrise and sunset.
Many guided tours of Grand Teton National Park include a stop at Oxbow Bend, especially those focused on wildlife viewing or photography.
Oxbow Bend can get crowded, particularly for sunrise and sunset. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot, especially for photographers.
📸 📸 Photography & Wildlife
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for photography, with stunning reflections of the Teton Range. +1
Oxbow Bend is known for its birdlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and herons. You might also spot river otters, moose, and occasionally bears.
While not strictly necessary for the landscape, a telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife details from a safe distance.
Experiment with different angles, especially during sunrise for reflections. Consider using a tripod for stability and longer exposures.
While bears can be present in the park, Oxbow Bend is more renowned for birdlife and otters. Other areas like Pilgrim Creek or Hayden Valley might offer better chances for bear sightings.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the scenic views, wildlife spotting, and photography. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating nature's beauty.
Yes, Oxbow Bend is an excellent stop for a short visit as it's easily accessible from the road and offers immediate scenic rewards.
There are no visitor facilities like restrooms or shops directly at the Oxbow Bend turnout. Plan accordingly and use facilities at nearby visitor centers or campgrounds.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a packed meal at the turnout, but be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the area pristine.
The turnout area is generally accessible from the parking lot, making it relatively easy to navigate with strollers or for those with mobility challenges to enjoy the view.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and binoculars to make the viewing experience more interactive. The stunning reflections of the mountains also provide a fantastic backdrop for family photos. Tips for families: Arrive a bit later in the morning if the early sunrise is too challenging with kids, as the views are still beautiful. Ensure everyone stays within the designated viewing areas and keeps a safe distance from the water's edge.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
+1 Photographers often arrive hours before sunrise to set up tripods and capture the changing light as the sun crests the horizon. The golden hour light bathes the landscape in warm hues, creating dramatic and memorable images. Beyond sunrise, the area offers opportunities for wildlife photography, particularly of birds of prey and river otters.
Consider bringing a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for the grand landscape to telephoto for capturing distant wildlife. +1Photography essentials: A sturdy tripod, a remote shutter release, and a range of lenses are highly recommended. Be prepared for early mornings and potentially cool temperatures.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Sunrise at Oxbow Bend
+1 To experience this magic, it's crucial to arrive well before dawn, ideally 30 minutes prior to the actual sunrise, to secure a good vantage point and witness the sky transform. The early morning light casts a soft, golden glow, enhancing the colors of the mountains and the water, making it an unforgettable spectacle. Redditors often emphasize the importance of respecting the quiet during these early hours. Loud conversations can detract from the serene atmosphere that many seek at Oxbow Bend.
The combination of stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings makes the early morning pilgrimage to Oxbow Bend a highlight for many visitors to Grand Teton National Park. Key takeaway: Prioritize an early morning visit for the best sunrise reflections and a peaceful experience. Remember to be quiet and respectful of the natural environment and other visitors.
Wildlife Spotting Hotspots
Many visitors report seeing these magnificent birds in action, diving for fish or soaring overhead. River otters are also frequently spotted playing in the water, adding a charming element to the natural spectacle. While Oxbow Bend is excellent for birds and otters, other areas within Grand Teton National Park are better known for larger mammals. For moose, Willow Flats and the Moose-Wilson Road are often recommended.
Bison and pronghorn are more commonly seen in areas like Antelope Flats and Mormon Row. However, it's not uncommon to see moose or even bears near Oxbow Bend, especially during certain seasons. Remember to always maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. Bringing binoculars or a spotting scope can significantly enhance your wildlife viewing experience. Pro-tip: While Oxbow Bend is great for birds and otters, consider exploring other park locations like Willow Flats or the Moose-Wilson Road for a higher chance of spotting moose and bears.
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it when exploring wildlife areas. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit