Moran and the East

 

Enjoy the view of the Snake River at Oxbow Bend or Jackson Lake Dam

NPS Photo/J. Bonney

Explore Moran

Nestled at the confluence of the Snake and Buffalo Fork rivers, Moran is the northern gateway to Grand Teton. Visitors can enjoy numerous activities in the nearby area like scenic driving, boating, fishing, and hiking.

Several popular destinations for scenic views, wildlife viewing, and short walks in Moran include Elk Ranch Flats, Oxbow Bend, Pacific Creek and Cunningham Cabin Historic Site.

To access Moran, turn at the Moran Junction from highway 89/191 and proceed through the Moran Entrance Station. Note that some popular destinations are located south of Moran.

 

Hike Moran

 

Hike Two Ocean Lake

Hike around Two Ocean Lake for a secluded trail with mountain views.

Hike Emma Matilda Lake

Hike around Emma Matilda Lake for wildflowers and views of the Teton Range.

Hike Two Ocean and Emma Matilda Lakes

Circle Two Ocean and Emma Matilda Lakes on this moderately strenuous loop trail.

 

Scenic Driving

 

Oxbow Bend is a popular place to view sunrise.

NPS Photo/J. Bonney

See Oxbow Bend

Oxbow Bend is a calm section of the Snake River, created over time through natural forces.

Many birds and other wildlife make their home at Oxbow Bend. On calm days, Mount Moran can be seen reflected on the surface of the water. Oxbow Bend is a popular spot with photographers, with sunrise and sunset being favorite times to visit. Parking is limited.

Pause at Elk Ranch Flats

Elk Ranch Flats is a flat area just south of Moran with beautiful views of the Teton Range, often with wildlife in the foreground. Bison, elk, and other animals can be seen at various times of day, depending on the time of year.

Drive carefully and slow down for animals crossing the road. Take care when other visitors are viewing animals from the roadside.

 

Looking through the window of the Cunningham Cabin.

NPS Photo

Discover Cunningham Cabin Historic Site

The Cunningham Cabin stands as one of the valley’s few remaining structures from the homesteading era when settlers filed nearly 400 claims in Jackson Hole. In the 1880s, John and Margaret Cunningham staked a claim for the Bar Flying U Ranch. Today you visit the cabin and area that was the Bar Flying U Ranch and take a self guided tour.

Visit the Chapel of the Sacred Heart

The Chapel of the Sacred Heart, located near Signal Mountain, is one of two churches within Grand Teton. Stop by to enjoy a quiet moment with scenic views or attend a service. Open seasonally and on specific days. Check the chapel's website for more information.

 

Kayak the Snake River

NPS Photo/A. Falgoust

Access Snake River

The Snake River offers opportunities to recreate on the water. Fishing and floating are popular activities along the Snake River. Access the river from various points in Moran, including Pacific Creek Landing and Jackson Lake Dam Landing.

The Snake River is a dangerous, braided river. Only attempt the river if you have experience navigating braided, swift-moving waterways. Consult the advanced river map and speak with a park ranger.

 

Advanced River Map

Map of known river features on the Snake River within the park.

 

Bears frequent the Two Ocean Lake area.

NPS Photo/C. Adams

Bear and Wildlife Safety

Do you know what to do when encountering a wild animal? Two Ocean Lake is home to black and grizzly bears, moose, elk, and other large animals. Bears are often seen on trails and in the developed areas. Being prepared for an animal encounter can help ensure the safety of you and the wildlife.

Learn more about how to stay safe in bear country.

Safety tip: never approach a wild animal. Always maintain a distance of at least 100yds/91m from bears and 25yds/23m from other wildlife.

 

View from forest access road within the park.

NPS/ S. Morgan

Other Public Lands

Neighboring public lands, including the Bridger and Teton National Forests, offer many recreational opportunities near the Moran area.

Dispersed camping is incredibly popular during the summer season. For more information on where you can camp in nearby national forests, including important regulations on stay-limits and fires, visit the camping page on the forest website.

 

Bridger-Teton National Forest

Campground status, facility features, regulations for outdoor recreation, and more important information.

 

Moran Services

• Triangle X Ranch: A dude ranch, with arrangements weekly on the American Plan. Enjoy horseback riding, hikes, float trips, western cookouts, meals, fishing, dancing, and other western ranch activities.
• U.S. Post Office: Monday-Friday 8:30am-1pm, 1:30-4:30pm; Saturday 10-11:30am
• Entrance Station: entrance fee charged
• Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS): AIS boat check station
• Buffalo Valley and Togwotee: restaurants, shops, and lodging outside of the park.

 

Additional Moran Information

 

Get on the Water

Learn about boating and floating regulations in the park.

Hike in Grand Teton

Explore hikes throughout Grand Teton National Park.

Explore the Backcountry

Travel into the Teton backcountry for an overnight stay.

Find A Campground

Find a place to camp in Grand Teton.

Lodging

Explore lodging options in Grand Teton.

Plan Your Visit

Learn more about Grand Teton and plan your trip here.

We Have an App for That

Download the NPS App before you get here! Explore Grand Teton and discover places to visit, find a bite to eat, and a place to stay.