Grand Teton in October: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

Best window · VisitWhen score 71/100 · #3 of 12 months

October is one of the best months of the year to visit Grand Teton National Park: crowds run 34% of the July peak (247,505 average visits), days average 51°F with 11.1 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Crowds in October

Grand Teton averages 247,505 recreation visits in October — 34% of what July, the peak month, draws. Plan lodging and entries with that in mind.

Weather & daylight

Expect cool days (highs average 51°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 25°F). It is typically dry (1.9″ of precipitation). Normal snowfall is 7″ — expect snow on the ground. Mid-month daylight runs 11.1 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station MORAN 5WNW, WY US (6 mi from park coordinates, 6,805 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of October.

What to pack for Grand Teton in October

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

• Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 25°F, below freezing
• Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — 7″ normal snowfall
• Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
• Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)

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Also at their best in October

Other parks whose computed October verdict is a best window — same NPS × NOAA formula:

• Badlands in October — 27% of peak crowds, highs 63°F, score 81/100
• Isle Royale in October — 2% of peak crowds, highs 51°F, score 81/100
• Wind Cave in October — 25% of peak crowds, highs 61°F, score 81/100
• Gateway Arch in October — 26% of peak crowds, highs 69°F, score 80/100

Common questions

See also: the best national parks to visit in October · Last verified 2026-09-12