Backpacking in Grand Teton National park allows you to really see and experience the majesty of the place and solitude away from the crowds. Backcountry camping does require more advance planning and does require a permit. Permits can be obtained at the Colter Bay, Jenny Lake and Craig Thomas visitor centers in person. Permits for overnight camping while rock climbing or mountaineering can only be obtained at Jenny Lake.

Also to note is that any overnight stay now requires you to carry an approved bear-proof container when camping below 10,000 feet in elevation. Canisters are provided by the park.

Reservations
Requests for advance reservations are accepted from January 1st through May 15th. Send the request by regular mail, fax, online or in person. Online reservations are only accessible during the reservation period. Include your name, address, phone number number of people, and preferred campsites and dates. Be sure to include alternatives. Requests are processed in the order received. Requests may be faxed to (307) 739-3438 or mailed to:

Grand Teton National Park
Backcountry Permits
PO Box 170
Moose, Wyoming 83012

A non-refundable service fee of $25 will be charged for each reservation (fee is per trip, not per person). Put credit card information directly on the fax or mail a check made payable to: National Park Service. If no payment is received with your request, you will be billed. Only one-third of the sites are reserved in advance, leaving two-thirds available for walk-in reservations.

Some camping zones fill up early. Be prepared with an alternate plan. Individual party reservations can consist of up to six people. Groups of 7-12 people must camp in designated group sites, which are shown on the map in the brochure.

Backcountry Regulations

* Pets, weapons, bicycles and vehicles are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
* All overnight camping requires a permit.
* Carry out all of your garbage.
* Prevent erosion by hiking on established trails. Cutting switchbacks causes soil erosion.
* Horses have the right-of-way. Step off the trail and remain quiet while horses pass.
* Observe and photograph wildlife from a safe distance. Do not approach or feed animals.
* Prevent contamination of waterways by burying feces in a hole 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from streams and lakes. Pack out used toilet paper, tampons, sanitary napkins and diapers in sealed plastic bags. Do not bury or burn them.
* All backpackers staying overnight below 10,000 feet in elevation must carry and use an approved bear-proof canister beginning in 2008. For more information see the Bear Safety page.

For Your Safety

* This is bear country. Make bears aware of your presence and avoid surprising them by making loud noises like shouting or singing.
* Carry drinking water. Bring tablets or water filtration devices to purify water in the backcountry.
* Be prepared for rapid weather changes; bring rain gear and extra clothing.
* High elevation may cause breathing difficulties; pace yourself.
* Snow melts gradually, leaving valley trails by mid-June, canyon trails by late July. Be careful crossing snowfields and streams.
* Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
* Solo hiking and off-trail hiking are not recommended. Check with a ranger for current information on trail conditions.

Avoid Crowds
During July and August trailhead parking areas fill early, especially at South Jenny Lake, String Lake, Lupine Meadows, Death Canyon and Granite Canyon. Parking on natural vegetation results in permanent damage to plants; violators will be ticketed. In paved parking lots, parking illegally will also result in a ticket. An early start will help you avoid parking problems.