Schwabacher Landing
Grand Teton National Park, WY
Once a landable channel of the Snake River, Schwabacher Landing is one of the most scenic viewpoints in Grand Teton National Park, where you can see the central Teton range, framed by trees and reflected in the calm waters of a beaver pond. The area is also popular for viewing wildlife, including beavers, birds, and moose.
The basics
While some Grand Teton National Park tours include a stop at Schwabacher Landing, visiting independently with a car is easy. A short walk from the lower parking lot takes you to a prime viewing and photo spot with two benches. You can enjoy views of the Tetons reflected in the channel's waters throughout the walk. Keep your eyes out for visiting wildlife, especially around sunrise and sunset.
Things to know before you go
- Schwabacher Landing is a must-see for photographers and wildlife lovers.
- Bring binoculars so you can keep your distance from wildlife.
- Grizzly bears and black bears are active in the park. Bring bear spray and know how to use it.
- You'll find a vault toilet in the lower parking lot.
- Due to changes in the course of the Snake River, you can no longer launch boats at Schwabacher Landing.
How to get there
Schwabacher Landing is located off Highway 191/89/26, around 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) north of the Moose Junction and 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) south of the Moran Junction. Take the paved then gravel Schwabacher Landing Road around 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the end. There are two parking lots: Upper Schwabacher (the first) and Lower Schwabacher (the second and more popular). Some Grand Teton National Park tours include a stop here.
When to get there
Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit for photos and wildlife—the resident beavers tend to be most active at dawn and dusk. Come in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Visit on a day without wind for the best chance at capturing the classic Tetons reflection shot. Summer and fall are the best seasons to visit. Inclement weather in winter and spring creates havoc with the gravel road and can make it impassable.
Mountain reflections in Grand Teton
Schwabacher Landing is by no means the only place in Grand Teton National Park where you can enjoy views of the mountains reflected in the water. Oxbow Bend features fantastic reflections of Mt. Moran reflected in a slow-moving bend in the Snake River, but it’s a popular spot and can get crowded. For a less crowded option, head to String Lake.
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