Teton Point Turnout – Break Out Your Inner Geologist

Sometimes you don’t know that you are a geology nerd enthusiast until you get to a place like Teton Point Turnout.

While the name “Teton Point Turnout” doesn’t exactly spark excitement, there are a few things to note and learn here, and possibly, find interesting!

For instance, the view from here, of course, shows the Tetons, which are always breathtaking.

But you can also see that the landscape leading up to the Tetons has three distinct levels, or what geologists call “terraces”. (See! Geologist enthusiast language!)

View of Tetons and Landscape from Teton Point Turnout

Each terrace is very distinct and easy to see (once you know what you are looking at) and represent a different span of time where the Snake River flowed through this valley.

Terraces labeled

So, as you are standing at the info sign, you are on the oldest terrace.  Look at you, being a part of geology, standing on an “Ancient Snake River Embankment!”

As you look towards the Tetons, each level you see below you is a different terrace.

So from top to bottom, it is oldest to youngest, with the current Snake River being the youngest terrace, and see that bank over there, right before the oldest terrace? It’s 200 ft high. It’s called a scarp. Geology! Scarp!

So, if you want to impress your group, point these things out before you get to this turnout. LOL!

Photography

We haven’t forgotten about the photography shots to get here.

After wowing everyone with your knowledge, notice the contrast of colors between the blue of the mountains and green of the sagebrush plain, and the dark green of the trees at the Snake River. The contrast of colors can make for a great picture (outside of winter). With or without your group standing in front of them.

View of Tetons and Landscape from Teton Point Turnout

People often find this a good spot to do a panoramic picture because of the distant view of the mountains with the long flat plains and the straight on angle/view of the mountains.

Teton Point is also a good place to do timed exposures at night because there isn’t any traffic to disturb your shot.

Animals

Bison are sometimes spotted here, and the expansive plain of sagebrush is a good place for antelope.

If you look to your left, far in the distance, you’ll see a glimpse of the Snake River and a patch of wet, grassland that moose like. It will be very far away, but you’d still be able to make it out if one appeared there.

If You are Short on Time

Glacier View Turnout vs. Teton Point Turnout

If you have the time and/or are determined to do each turnout, go to both of these turnouts.

If you are under a time crunch and are trying to spend your time wisely, skip Glacier Turnout and go to Teton Point Turnout.

Here’s why:

The Geology!

Actually, you can see this same distinct terraces at Glacier View too, it’s just that the information sign here explains it and shows you what to look for. The Glacier information sign points out the glaciers.

And you can see some of the glaciers here too, (of course not as well as at Glacier View Turnout).

Also, you could book mark this page on your phone or print out the following pictures for reference.

View from Teton Point Turnout Terraces and Glaciers labeled

 

View from Glacier View Turnout with Terraces and Glaciers labeled

Animals

I think there is a slightly higher chance of seeing an animal here at Teton Point Turnout. While I was doing research, people noted seeing bison here. (I, personally have not.)

And when things are tied, for us at Explore GTNP, we give the win to the possibility of seeing an animal.

But if glaciers are your thing, go there, and use this page to help you identify the different geological terraces.

We’re just saying if you’re strapped for time and want to go to one of these, pick Teton Point Turnout.

Know Before You Go

• The parking lot is very large, 24 parking spots +2 handicap spots and a few long vehicle parking spots for tour buses and RVs.
• Have to slow down quite a bit when coming from the south to turn in and if coming from the north you have to take a more sharp turn.
• Tour buses come here
• There is an information board which clearly explains the age of each level of the ground
• No picnic tables
• No bathrooms

Thoughts or questions on Teton Point Turnout? We’d love to hear from you in the comments section!

Keep Your Eye Peeled for a Moose!

Jenn Cunningham
Founder, Explore GTNP