Things To Do Near John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway
Your visit to the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway can be as active or as relaxing as you like. Many visitors opt for a scenic drive, taking in the views as they pass from one national park to the next. If you have time, the parkway's trails and scenic areas offer the chance to explore the spectacular landscape away from the crowds.
Hiking Trails
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Glade Creek Trail
If you're looking for solitude, the Glade Creek Trail is an excellent option. This lovely route starts a few miles west of the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway on Grassy Lake Road. The first section winds through an area that was ravaged by the Huck Fire in 1988; today, the dry trees mix with the new growth. From there, you'll climb through a forest and into meadows filled with wildflowers. Some of the best views happen in the enormous meadow where the Snake River starts to get wider as it pours into Jackson Lake. At the 3.5-mile mark, you'll see the Grand Teton National Park sign; keep going for a longer hike or turn around for a comfortable day hike.
Location
Glade Creek trailhead, Grassy Lake Road, Moran, WY 83013
Length
7 miles round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Lewis River Channel/Dogshead Trail
Get out into the famous Yellowstone backcountry on the Lewis River Channel/Dogshead Trail. This loop trail takes you through dense forests to Shoshone Lake. On the way back, it parallels the Lewis River Channel, creating gorgeous views and plenty of opportunities for fishing. The last section of the trail travels along the northern shore of Lewis Lake.
Location
Dogshead/Channel Trailhead, S Entrance Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Length
10.8 miles round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
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Continental Divide Trail to Heart Lake
Experience a section of the Continental Divide Trail with this long day hike through the wilderness of Wyoming. This popular route climbs through forests and meadows for approximately 4.5 miles; at that point, you'll reach an open viewpoint with one of the most breathtaking views in the region. Keep an eye out for Witch Creek and several geysers as you hike. This route ends at Heart Lake, where you have a chance of seeing grizzly bears, elk, and other wildlife. Bring your fishing gear to catch a trout, or simply enjoy the view from the beach.
Location
Heart Lake Trailhead, US-287, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Length
6.8 miles one-way
Intensity
Strenuous
Sightseeing
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Moose Falls
Located near the northern end of the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, Moose Falls is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. From the parking area, it's a quick walk to the 30-foot waterfall. Note the steam coming off the cascade; the water is geothermally heated. Pay attention to signage, especially if you're visiting with kids—depending on geothermal activity, the falls and the creek are often too hot to touch.
Location
US-191, Wyoming 83013
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Lewis Falls
Lewis Falls rushes through a gap in the forest, creating an impressive scene any time of year. This beautiful cascade is located about 10 miles north of Yellowstone's south entrance. From the clearly marked parking area, you can walk a short trail to a stunning overlook point that's perfect for photography.
Location
US-191, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Museums
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Colter Bay Indian Arts Museum
Set on the banks of Jackson Lake inside the Colter Bay Visitor Center, the Colter Bay Indian Arts Museum is the only museum within an hour of the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Stop in to explore the unique traditional Native American artwork in the region and check out the David T. Vernon collection of artifacts.
Location
Colter Bay Visitor Center, Moran, WY 83013
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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General Store at Colter Bay Village
Geared toward vacationers, the General Store carries everything you need for a comfortable camping trip. From fresh produce to a grab-and-go deli, this is a great spot to stock your RV or pick up a sandwich for a hiking trip.
Location
100 Colter Bay Village Rd, Moran, WY 83013
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Gift Shop at Colter Bay Village
Find all of the Grand Teton and Yellowstone souvenirs you need at the Colter Bay Village Gift Shop. Options range from traditional coffee mugs and T-shirts to unique children's books and framed photographs.
Location
100 Colter Bay Village Rd, Moran, WY 83013
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Sheffields Restaurant
You'll feel like a true Wild West rancher at the Sheffields Restaurant, which features a stunning log-cabin dining room and antler chandeliers. Grab a classic egg breakfast to start the day, or come for lunch or dinner to try a bison burger or fresh salmon.
Location
Sheffields Restaurant, 100 Grassy Lake Rd, Moran, WY 83013
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John Colter's Ranch House
Located in Colter Bay Village, John Colter's Ranch House is a family-friendly restaurant that serves three meals a day. The menu is varied, offering everything from salads to beef brisket.
Location
Ranch House Restaurant, 100 Colter Bay Village Rd, Moran, WY 83013
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Trapper Grill
Dig into plates of pub-style fare at the Trapper Grill, which serves sandwiches, burgers, and Southwestern-style entrees. Don't miss the restaurant's signature dishes: the mountain of nachos, trout tacos, and blackberry pie.
Location
Grand Teton National Park, Trapper Grill at Signal Mtn Lodge, 1 Inner Park Rd, Moran, WY 83013