Grand Teton National Park in autumn is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning opportunities for capturing beautiful fall foliage against the backdrop of majestic mountains. The crisp morning air carries the scent of fallen leaves, and the aspens along the Snake River shimmer in hues of gold and orange. It's moments like these that remind me why I've dedicated decades to photographing this magnificent landscape.
For over 40 years, I've had the privilege of living near Jackson Hole, with the Teton Range as a prt of my mountain views. Each fall, as the landscape transforms into a tapestry of autumn colors, I find myself drawn back to my favorite locations, eager to capture the ever-changing moods of the mountains and valleys.
One of the best spots for fall photography in Grand Teton is undoubtedly Oxbow Bend. Here, the still waters of the Snake River create perfect reflections of Mount Moran and the surrounding peaks, framed by a riot of fall colors. I often arrive before sunrise, setting up my tripod at the water's edge, waiting for that magical moment when the first light kisses the mountain tops and sets the golden aspens ablaze.
Just a short drive away, the iconic Mormon Row Barns offer another spectacular autumn photo opportunity. These historic structures, set against the backdrop of the Teton Range, take on a new character in fall. I love to photograph them in the late afternoon, when the low sunlight bathes the weathered wood in a warm glow, contrasting beautifully with the colorful foliage and the often snow-dusted peaks beyond.
The Snake River Overlook, made famous by Ansel Adams, is another location I return to year after year. In autumn, the river valley below is transformed into a patchwork of yellows, oranges, and reds, creating a stunning foreground for the rugged Teton Range. I've found that both sunrise and sunset can yield breathtaking photos here, with the changing light dramatically altering the mood of the scene.
For those seeking a more intimate autumn landscape, I often recommend a trip to Schwabacher's Landing. The quiet beaver ponds here offer incredible reflections of the Tetons, framed by golden willows and aspens. It's also a great spot for wildlife photography, as moose often frequent the area during the fall rutting season.
Speaking of wildlife, autumn in Grand Teton National Park offers some of the best opportunities for capturing animals in their natural habitat. The elk rut is in full swing, and the haunting bugle of bull elk echoes through the valleys. I've spent many early mornings in places like Willow Flats and Elk Ranch Flats, photographing these majestic creatures as they emerge from the mist-covered meadows.
Grizzly and black bears are also particularly active in fall, preparing for hibernation. While always maintaining a safe distance, I've captured some of my favorite bear photos in autumn, as they forage among the berry-laden bushes, their fur contrasting beautifully with the fall colors.
One of my personal favorite autumn locations in the park is the Taggart Lake Trail. The hike offers a stunning variety of fall colors, from the golden aspens near the trailhead to the deep reds of the huckleberry bushes higher up. The view of the Tetons reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Taggart Lake, surrounded by a frame of autumn foliage, is truly breathtaking.
As the season progresses, I often find myself drawn to the higher elevations, where the first snows of winter create a stunning contrast with the last of the fall colors. Areas like Death Canyon and Cascade Canyon offer incredible opportunities for capturing this transition, with snow-dusted peaks rising above valleys still ablaze with autumn hues.
