(source: nps.gov)
Trip Planning · From Jackson, WY
Already in Jackson and want both parks without paying Jackson hotel rates? Cross Teton Pass to your Island Park basecamp — 2h 30m of one of the most scenic drives in the Rockies.
Teton Pass (WY-22) → Teton Valley (ID-33) → Ashton (US-20) → Island Park. About 130 miles.
The only commercial airport inside a U.S. national park (Grand Teton). Direct from DEN, SLC, ORD, ATL, DFW, SEA, LAX (seasonal). Premium pricing — compare BZN/IDA before booking.
Side-by-side basecamp comparison: cost, drive times, vibe, and which parks each is closer to.
JAC vs BZN, IDA, SLC for fares and drive times.
Already booked Island Park? Here's how to spend a day in Jackson and Grand Teton.
Head west out of Jackson on WY-22 over Teton Pass, drop into Teton Valley, then north through Driggs and Ashton on ID-33 and US-20. About 130 miles, 2h 30m.
WY-22 climbs to 8,431 ft. Steep 10% grades on both sides — use low gear descending. Pass has had winter closures and a 2024 landslide; always check WYDOT 511 first.
ID-33 north through Teton Valley with stunning west-side Teton views. Quiet farm road. Lunch in Driggs (Forage Bistro) or burgers in Ashton (Big Jud's).
US-20 north into Island Park. Pine forests, lakes, and the Henry's Fork. Cabin check-in.
Jackson is beautiful but expensive, and you're still 1h 40m from Yellowstone's South Entrance — and 2h+ from West. Island Park drops you 30 minutes from the West Entrance for a fraction of the lodging cost.
West Entrance via US-20 — be at Old Faithful by 8 AM.
Drive Teton Valley back south for a day in Jenny Lake or Mormon Row.
Cabin pricing is a fraction of Jackson hotels — especially in summer.