Updated: January 21, 2025

The Cabins at Signal Mountain – A Grand Teton National Park Lodging Option

Signal Mountain Cabins are located at Signal Mountain Lodge and Marina, and is one of two lodging options located ON Jackson Lake, and INSIDE Grand Teton National Park (Colter Bay Village is the other).

Some would argue that Signal Mountain is the only lakefront property in the park because many (not all) of its cabins and rooms face Jackson Lake and the Tetons while only being a few feet away from the shore.

Here we will give you detailed information on the Signal Mountain area with its services and amenities, the Signal Mountain Cabins, and the advantages and challenges of staying at the Signal Mountain Cabins.

This info may help you decide if the Signal Mountain Cabins are the right lodging option for you.

Signal Mountain Lodge and Marina Overview

Signal Mountain Lodge and Marina is located towards the center of Grand Teton National Park (1 Inner Park Road, Grand Teton National Park, Moran, WY 83013).

It is on Teton Park Road, the “inside road” of the park, where you need a park pass to access it. Also, it is on Grand Teton’s 42 Mile Drive.

Signal Mountain Resort is located on the eastern shore of Jackson Lake. The restaurants and many of the buildings face west, providing glorious views of the Tetons with the lake in the foreground.

Signal Mountain is a full-service resort that includes:

• 79 rooms/cabins
• Two Restaurants
• Two Marinas
• Two Campgrounds
• A Bar
• Two Gift Shops
• General Store, Coffee Bar, and Gas Station
• Public Coin Operated Laundry and Showers
• Guided Fishing Trips
• Guided Scenic Float Trips on the Snake River

Find descriptions of each of these amenities in the “Advantages of Staying at the Cabins of Signal Mountain” section.

Signal Mountain Cabins

There are eight different types of rooms and cabins at Signal Mountain to accommodate 2-8 people.

ALL rooms and cabins include free WIFI!!

Note: All rates are based on double occupancy. There is a $10 per person/per night for any additional people at and over the age of 18. No extra charge for additional people 17 years old and under.

Note: Pets are allowed in all rooms except the Upper Lakefront Retreats and the Premier Western Rooms. There is a $20 per night, per pet, charge. See Signal Mountain Pet Policies.

Cabin Type	# Max	View	Kitchen	Coffee-maker	Microwave	Fridge	Pets	2025 Price per night including tax
ONE ROOM RUSTIC LOG CABINS
1 Double Bed, 1 Twin	3						✓	$381.01
1 Double Bed w/ gas fireplace	2						✓	$381.01
2 Double Beds	4						✓	$381.01
2 Double Beds, 1 Sofa bed	6						✓	$381.01
TWO ROOM RUSTIC LOG CABINS
2 Double Beds	4					✓	✓	$364.36
2 Double Beds & 1 Twin Bed	5					✓	✓	$403.21
2 Double Beds, 2 Twin Bed	6					✓	✓	$419.86
3 Double Beds	6					✓	✓	$414.31
COUNTRY ROOMS
2 Queen Beds	4			✓	✓	✓	✓	$423.19
1 King Bed	2			✓	✓	✓	✓	$423.19
DELUXE COUNTRY ROOMS
1 King Bed, w/Gas Fireplace	2			✓	✓	✓	✓	$467.59
PREMIER WESTERN ROOMS
Two Queen Beds w/Jetted Tub	4			✓	✓	✓	No	$587.47
Two Queen Beds ADA Compliant	4			✓	✓	✓	No	$587.47
BUNGALOWS
1 Room – 1 King Bed, 1 Sofa bed	4			✓	✓	✓	✓	$423.19
2 Room – 2 Queen Beds, 1 Sofa Bed	6		✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	$650.74
LAKEFRONT RETREATS
Lower – 2 Queen Beds, 1 Sofa bed	6	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	$587.47
Upper – 2 Queen Beds, 1 Sofa bed	6	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	No	$650.74
Upper – 1 King Bed, 1 Sofa bed	4	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	No	$650.74
HOMEAWAY FROM HOME
3 Queen Beds, 1 Sofa bed	8		✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	$745.09

Pro Tip: Click on each room type in the chart that you are interested in to take you to the Signal Mountain Lodge site to get complete room information.

The Signal Mountain Cabins are available to rent in 2025 from May 9th through October 10th.

Reservations can be made online or by phone: 307-543-2831 or 1-877-841-1076.

Reservations open 13-18 months in advance.

Pro Tip: Make reservations as early as you can for the most selection and availability. These cabins fill up quickly, especially the Lakefront Retreat Cabins.

Staying at the Signal Mountain Lodge’s Cabins – Advantages and Challenges

There are advantages and challenges for all lodging choices in Grand Teton National Park, the following are Signal Mountain Lodge’s.

Please know: When I point out the advantages and/or challenges, I’m not doing so to persuade you to stay or dissuade you from staying at one of the cabins at Signal Mountain Lodge, but to tell you upfront what the cabins and rooms are and are not so you can:

• go in with accurate expectations
• be happy with your choice of lodging
• avoid surprises

The information provided going forward is from me reading, reviewing, and scouring 1,200+ Signal Mountain visitor reviews.

Advantage: Central Location in Grand Teton National Park

This is probably one of the biggest advantages.

Signal Mountain Lodge is centrally located in Grand Teton National Park. This means shorter driving times to most places and activities in the park, compared to:

• Lodging outside the park
• Colter Bay, which is farther north
• Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch, as it is on the northern boundary of Grand Teton (technically in between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks)
• Jackson, WY – outside the southern border of GTNP

Drive Times from Signal Mountain Lodge

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Drive times approximate without traffic:

• to Jackson Lake Lodge = 5 miles, 14 minutes
• to Moran Junction = 7.5 miles, 15 minutes
• to Colter Bay Marina = 9.7 miles, 20 minutes
• to Jenny Lake Visitor Center = 10.5 miles, 20 minutes
• to Moose, WY = 17.3 miles, 27 minutes
• to Jackson Hole Airport = 22 miles, 40 minutes
• to Jackson = 30.3 miles, 45-60 minutes
• to Yellowstone South Boundary = 26.3 miles, 40 minutes

Advantage: Located on Jackson Lake

Signal Mountain Lodge is located directly on Jackson Lake. It is on the eastern shore of the lake, which means many of it’s buildings, cabins, and rooms face the Tetons.

Some with fabulous views, like the Trapper Grill restaurant (more on that in a minute).

And while the other lakefront property, Colter Bay, has tall pine trees between it and the lake, many of Signal Mountain cabins are a few feet away from the shore with no tree obstruction of the mountains.

Advantage: Free Wifi in ALL Cabins and Rooms

All cabins and rooms from the least expensive (One and Two Room Rustic Cabins) to the most expensive (Upper Lakefront Retreat and Homeaway from Home Cabin) have free wifi.

I list this as an advantage, even though none of us want to admit we like having wifi.

After all, having wifi and being on our devices doesn’t really fit into our vision of unplugging and reconnecting with our family and being one with nature in a national park.

But it is nice to have, if only to “share beautiful pictures of the scenery with friends on Facebook and Instagram….“

You don’t have to share this advantage with your kids.

Advantage: Guests Only Lounge

This is a big bonus for those staying in the Signal Mountain cabins and rooms: the Guests Only Lounge.

Here you will find a cozy room that can fit about 20-25 people with a nice picture window of the Tetons. It also has a fireplace and is a good place to be on a socked in, rainy day.

Also, there are books, games, a TV, public computer and printer, and one of the most coveted items in all of GTNP: coffee before 6:00 am!

It is rumored to have coffee as early as 5:00 am. An early bird’s haven. But only for those staying at Signal Mountain.

Advantage: Cabins/Rooms that have Teton AND Lake Views

The Lakefront Retreats have Teton views with Jackson Lake in the foreground.

Granted, Jackson Lake Lodge has some rooms that have Teton and Jackson Lake views, but at Signal Mountain, you are within 100 feet of the lake!

Signal Mountain only lists the Lakefront Retreats as having a view of the Tetons and lake on their website. All other rooms are listed as “non-view”. Know that some other cabins (not all) may have a partial view of the Tetons, the lake, or both.

Pro Tip: When making reservations on the phone, ask if the room has “a partial view”.

Pro Tip: If a view from your room is the #1 priority for you, opt for the Upper Lakefront Retreat over the Lower Lakefront Retreat.

Advantage: Trapper Grill Restaurant

Fact: Trapper Grill has the best food inside Grand Teton National Park.

Well, it’s not a fact, but actually my humble (?) opinion that I like to pass off as fact. In fact, (dear lord let this word play stop….), I wrote an entire article on the Trapper Grill if you’d like more info.

If you are staying at Signal Mountain, you are a short walk away from the Trapper Grill found inside the main Signal Mountain Lodge (not the cabin check in lodge).

Trapper Grill has a diverse menu, something for most everyone – vegan, vegetarian, gluten free items included. I usually get one of their burgers or chicken sandwiches and come away very full.

Note: Portion sizes are large. Great if you have a way to keep leftovers.

Pro Tip: Eat outside on the deck. It has fantastic views and umbrellas for shade.

Advantage: The Rest of the Services, Amenities, and Recreation

On top of the other previously mentioned advantages, there is the rest of Signal Mountain’s services, amenities, and recreation.

All are easily accessible and within walking distance from the cabin area.

Guest services include: General Store, Gas Station, Coffee Bar, Restaurants, Bar, Laundromat, and Showers.

Amenities include: Full-Service Marina and Gift Shops.

Recreation options include: Boating, Fishing, Scenic Snake River Float Trips, Signal Mountain Summit Drive, Jackson Lake Dam, Picnicking, Swimming, and Hiking.

Following is a short description of each, with some insider tips when applicable.

General Store, Coffee Bar, Gas Station

The General Store and Coffee Bar are conveniently located by the gas pumps. So you can make it a one stop shop to get your gas, food, and coffee before you set out for a day of adventure and fun.

The Coffee Bar is inside the General Store and it has an outdoor seating area. It opens at 7:00 am.

The General Store has most of any food items you need, and also offers fresh made breakfast and lunch items. The following lists some items they offer:

• Organic and all natural food choices
• Environmentally friendly product alternatives
• Snacks and drinks
• Fishing supplies
• Camping gear
• Toiletries
• Gasoline
• Ice

Restaurants

Trapper Grill has already been mentioned, and it is worth saying again: good food, great deck, big portions. More info.

Deadman’s Bar is also located in the main lodge. A full service bar where you can dine too. Funny enough, it doesn’t have any views of the Tetons or Jackson Lake.

Leek’s Pizzeria and Marina is where you want to go for all things Pizza and some things pasta.

Very Important Note: Leek’s Pizzeria is not located in the Signal Mountain Resort Area!!! Instead, it is located 11 miles to the north of Signal Mountain.

So do not order a pizza to go and expect to pick it up at the Trapper Grill.

It won’t be there.

It will be 11 miles to the north.

And that is okay, as Leek’s Pizzeria and Marina is worth the trip, as it is a restaurant on the lake, with a deck that overlooks it’s own marina (some views from the deck are obstructed by trees). It’s another great opportunity to eat outside, get a different view of the Tetons, enjoy pizza and maybe a microbrew or two. More info.

Read: 5 Reasons to Eat at Leek’s Pizzeria and Marina

Laundromat and Showers

Staying at the cabins at Signal Mountain, you will have your own private bathroom (every room/cabin has one) and you will likely not need to use the public showers. But they are there, next to the laundromat.

The laundromat, that you might need.

Washers and Dryers

• Open 24/7
• Coin operated, Washer = $3.00/load, Dryer = $1.00/20 minutes
• X-Large Washer = $5.00/load, Dryer = $2.00/20 minutes

Showers

• Open 7:00 am – 10:30 pm
• Private shower rooms (not stalls)
• Coin Operated
• $6 for 7 minutes of water

Two Marinas

Signal Mountain has two marinas.

One at the resort that is a full service marina: Signal Mountain Marina. 

And one located 11 miles north of Signal Mountain Resort that is a bouy rental and boat gas purchase marina: Leek’s Marina (where you can find Leek’s Pizzeria).

The one you want to be most concerned with is Signal Mountain Marina. The one conveniently located right here at the resort.

Here, you can rent buoys for your own boat, or rent boats.

2025 Boat Rental Rates:

Sea Kayaks: 

• 1 Person Hourly: $29 + tax
• 1 Person Maximum daily rate: $110  + tax
• 2 Person Hourly: $39 + tax
• 2 Person Maximum daily rate: $125 + tax

Note: Kayak rentals will begin when water temperatures allow; typically early to mid-June

Pontoon Boats: (maximum 10ppl)
Hourly: $140*
Maximum daily rate: $649*

Runabouts: (maximum 5ppl)
Hourly: $74*
Maximum daily rate: $349*

Fishing Boats: (maximum 5ppl)
Hourly: $60**
Maximum daily rate: $285**

*rates do not include gas, oil or tax
**rates do not include tax

• Pets are NOT allowed on any rental boat
• Towing behind any rental boat is prohibited
• Kayaks will not be available until early to mid-June due to cold water and hypothermic conditions

Leek’s Marina, again, 11 miles north of Signal Mountain, is available for buoy rental and boat gas fill up only, no boat rentals. And of course, there is Leek’s Pizzeria to eat at there.

Needles Gift Shop

Needles gift shop is located in the main lodge and it is one of the best gift shops in the park.

Needles has most of what the other park gift shops have, but what makes this gift shop great is that they offer products from local and regional artists.

Advantage: Recreation

As promised the following are recreation options available at Signal Mountain Resort.

Boating and Fishing

Boat rentals were already detailed previously when describing Signal’s full service marina.

In addition to boat rentals, Signal Mountain offers guided lake fishing trips and Scenic Snake River Float Trips.

Guided Lake Fishing

Have the local guides take you out to the best spots on Jackson Lake to catch a cutthroat, lake trout and/or brown trout.

Two and four hour guided trips are available.

Note:

• Prior to your scheduled trip, you’ll need to purchase a Wyoming state fishing license, available at the front desk.
• There is a 2 hour minimum for fishing trips.
• Minimum age for fishing tours is 6 years old.
• Save some time and click on the following link to view or download the Signal Mountain Lodge Participation Agreement before you arrive.

Pro Tip: If you are only using your Wyoming Fishing License for the day of the guided fishing trip (and for sure aren’t using it again for the rest of the year), make sure the trip is not canceled due to weather before getting your Wyoming Fishing License. Fishing trip reservations are refundable, licenses are not.

Scenic Float Trip on the Snake River

Take a scenic float trip on the Snake River on a 10 mile stretch inside Grand Teton National Park. Scenic is the correct word as you will have views of the Tetons, forests, wildflowers, and possible wildlife including bears, elk, deer, moose, bald eagles etc…

The float trip is about 3.5 hours, with 2 of those hours on the water. Transportation to and from the river is provided in a van shared with other guests.

2025 Scenic Float Trip Rates:

• Adult (13 yrs and up): $99
• Children (aged 6-12): $85
• Age minimum: 6 years old
• Complimentary float trip for 4th grade students that have an Every Kid Outdoors Pass

Pro Tip: This is a very popular activity, sign up for a float BEFORE you arrive for your stay at Signal Mountain if possible.

Signal Mountain Summit Drive

A short distance to the south of Signal Mountain Resort, is the Signal Mountain Summit Road. Definitely worth doing, especially because you are so close.

The summit drive is 5 miles one way and takes about 20 minutes to drive each way.

There are two stops for views.

The first stop is “Jackson Overlook” and it is 2/3 of the way up. This is the more scenic view as it faces west and gives you a fabulous Teton view with the Jackson Hole Valley and Jackson Lake in the foreground. If you are able, take the dirt path that starts where the paved path ends. Take it to the edge, that way you get around the trees and a more unobstructed view.

Then jump back in your car and go to the top for the second view point. This one isn’t as scenic as it faces east, no Teton views, but it does give you an expansive view of the Jackson Hole Valley.

Pro Tip: The second stop is by a cell tower. If you haven’t been able to use your phone in the park, here is a good place to try.
Pro Tip: There is a vault bathroom here and a picnic table.
Pro Tip: Keep your eye peeled for elk, moose, and bears on this drive. I have seen many of these on this drive, especially bears.

 

Swimming

A nice place to swim is over by Signal Mountain’s Boat Launch area (see here on Google Maps). If you are facing the Tetons, the area to the left of the boat launch there is plenty of rocky beach to set up chairs, blankets, and towels. Just move far enough away from the ramp and keep your eye out for boats.

If you are feeling more adventurous, you can take the 1.5 mile trail to south landing from the boat launch area. It’s a trail through the woods, along the shore. The end will plop you out at South Landing, where there are a few camping spots. Walk past the camping spots and find your own place to set your stuff before jumping in.

Note: As with all hiking in Grand Teton, carry bear spray, keep it easily accessible and know how to use it. I’ve seen many bears around Signal Mountain.

Picnicking

If you don’t want to get in a car, but instead walk to a picnic spot, you will find some picnic tables along the marina. You’ll most likely be in full sun so be sure to bring hats and sun glasses.

There are also a few picnic tables at a designated picnic area by the campground. Fantastic photo opportunities here.

If you don’t mind getting in the car, you can take a very short drive to the Catholic Bay Picnic Area by the Sacred Heart Church – a little to the north of Signal Mountain. Take the turn to the church, and then take the immediate right to the picnic area. Here you will find a couple more picnic tables and grills to cook on. Follow all fire safety rules.

Note: To keep you and the wildlife (specifically bears) safe, follow all food handling and storage rules.

Pro Tip: Again, have bear spray close and know how to use it.

Hiking

There isn’t a lot of hiking that starts directly from Signal Mountain. There are two trails.

One is to South Landing that was mentioned in the swimming section. You can take the 1.5 mile trail (3 miles round trip) from the Signal Mountain boat launch area or you can drive and park to the South Landing parking area and walk 1/2 a mile (1 mile round trip).

The other trail is hiking up Signal Mountain, to Jackson Point Overlook. To the same place you can drive to on the Signal Mountain Summit Road.

The hiking trail is 6.8 miles round trip, with a 920 feet elevation gain. That makes it a moderate hike on a scale of easy to strenuous.

To be honest with you, I have never hiked this trail because you can drive to the same spot. I save my hiking time for places cars can’t go.

Which is what I suggest you do too.

Especially if you are short on time.

Save your hiking for other hikes, such as String Lake and Taggart Lake.

Jackson Lake Dam

Jackson Lake Dam is close by and requires getting into a car to get there. Here you can picnic, explore, fish (if you have a license), take photos, or just relax.

Challenges of Signal Mountain Cabins and Rooms

Ok. That is a lot of advantages.

So much so, I feel I need to state here that I am not an affiliate of Signal Mountain, nor do I get any kickbacks if people stay here.

Each advantage is one I feel really stands out as a plus.

But there are challenges.

They are listed below, and if there is a solution to a challenge, it will be listed with the challenge.

Challenge: “Seems Expensive for What You Get.”

To be fair, this is a challenge mentioned frequently for most lodging inside Grand Teton National Park.

To accurately set expectations, most of Signal Mountain’s cabins and rooms equate to three star rooms for five star prices.

I know! That is tough to hear….

…and it probably doesn’t make you feel better to know that is the way it is for lodging inside (and some outside) the park.

What Signal Mountain offers that other lodging in the park doesn’t offer is it’s central location INSIDE the park, it’s close proximity to the lake, and it’s close up views of the lake and the Tetons.

As you can see, I’m restating the “advantages” here.

Look over the advantages and read on the rest of the challenges to decide what you value in an accommodation on your vacation and if Signal Mountain is a fit. (Also, be sure to check out “Saving Money Tips” below.)

Challenge: “Rooms Are More Like Motel Rooms.”

This is surprising to some people as they expect to find log cabins within a national park.

At Signal Mountain, there are both cabins and motel-like rooms, depending on which cabin/room option you reserve.

For a more rustic experience, opt for the One or Two Room Rustic Log Cabin. They are cabins, as it says in the name, but note that they are connected to other cabins, often in tri-plex and quad-plex buildings. They are not stand alone cabins. Note that rustic also means: no microwave or coffeemaker.

The Lakefront Retreats, Country Rooms, and Premier Western Rooms are all motel-like rooms on the inside. And like motel rooms they come with coffeemakers and microwaves.

Challenge: No Air Conditioning.

There is one type of room that does have air conditioning – The Premier Western Rooms. They are the newest built rooms at Signal Mountain.

So if that is #1 on your list for comfort, the Premier Western Room is for you!

Otherwise, there are box fans available for the rooms.

Honestly, as it does get hot in the afternoon, it does cool down in the evening and morning. So while air conditioning is great in the afternoons, a box fan should do the trick. Also the box fan doubles as a provider of white noise.

And speaking of noise….

Challenge: “Walls are thin.”

With many rooms being in tri-plex and quad-plex buildings, you are most likely going to have neighbors. Some of the structures are also old, so there is a high probability you will hear your neighbors.

Solutions include – the box fan (dual use of cooling room and white noise), ear plugs, ear buds, headphones and making an effort to be quiet for your neighbors. If everyone is aware of this issue, then everyone can make an effort to reduce their own noise level.

Note: In studying all the reviews, it was the people who stayed in the Lower Lakefront Retreats that most often noted the noise. Which isn’t surprising as the Upper Lakefront Retreats are directly above them. Something to keep in mind if noise is going to be an issue.

Tips When Making a Reservation

To make a reservation, call: 307-543-2831 or book online. Add special requests by telling the reservation agent on the phone, or add them to the “notes” box on the online form.

• Book early to get the best possible options and the most to select from, they sell out by opening of summer season. You can make a reservation 13-16 months in advance.
• Book early especially if you want a Lakefront Retreat Room – the rooms with Teton and Lake views.
• For peace of mind, confirm your reservations every couple of months if you have booked 16 months out (maybe that’s just me…).
• Book direct from Signal Mountain Lodge for the best rates and availability (3rd party vendors often charge more and have more restrictive cancellation policies).
• All rates are based on double occupancy. There is a $10 per person/per night for any additional people at and over the age of 18. No extra charge for additional people 17 years old and under.
• Know that all rates posted on the web site do not include tax. (Tax is usually around 11% = 6% state tax, 5% lodging tax.)
• If you are requesting a pack and play – call a couple of days before to make sure it is ready and still available. Bring wipes and cleaner just in case.
• If you have mobility issues, it is best to make your reservation online to discuss options 307-543-2831.
• Also concerning mobility issues – may want to ask about the height of the beds – some have commented they are really high and can be difficult to get into.
• If you think you may want to stay a few more nights, book ahead of time. It’s harder to add on while staying there as they are usually full.
• If you are bringing your dog, note that dogs are welcome in all rooms EXCEPT in the Upper Lakefront Retreats and the Premier Western Rooms.
• There is a $20 per night pet charge. See Signal Mountain Pet Policies.
• For the best view of the Tetons and Lake, book an Upper Lakefront Retreat.
• If you want air conditioning – book a Premier Western Room.
• If you want kitchen facilities to cook your own food – book a Lakefront Retreat, the Two Room Bungalow, or the Home Away from Home cabin.
• When making your reservation, ask if there is a full view or partial view, even if it states there is or isn’t.
• When you call to reserve a room with a sofa bed, ask if it has a blow up mattress. If it doesn’t, plan on bringing your own if you can.
• Check your room to make sure it is what you requested.
• Know check in time is 4:00 pm and check out is 11:00 am.
• Know all buildings are non-smoking.

Reservations and Cancellation Policies

The following reservations and cancellation policies information is taken directly from the Signal Mountain Lodge web site. So where you see “we” mentioned, it is Signal Mountain Lodge.

• Lodging reservations can be made online at Signal Mountain Lodge or by calling the Reservations Team at 307-543-2831.
• To guarantee your reservation we require the first night’s deposit, including tax.
• We will send written confirmation after we obtain your deposit.
• All cancellations regardless of reason (inclement weather, flight changes, travel plan changes, etc…) will be charged a $25 per room administrative fee and are accepted up to 7 days prior to arrival by 11:59 p.m. MDT.
• Cancellation within 7 days of arrival constitutes full forfeiture of deposit.
• ANY date changes (including arrival date and departure date) are accepted up to 7 days prior to arrival.
• Date changes within 7 days of arrival constitutes full forfeiture of deposit.
• Groups traveling together with a combined total of more than 3 rooms are subject to a 28-day cancellation/change policy, may not book more than 10 rooms combined and must be approved by Management.
• We do not have restaurant or gathering space for groups.
• (Note: May and October reservations will be subject to a 3-day cancellation/change policy for reservations of 3 or fewer rooms; admin. fee still applies.)

Tips to Enhance Your Stay

Here are some additional tips while staying in the Signal Mountain Cabins and Rooms:

• Have a good map and directions to get to Signal Mountain Lodge and Marina. Cell service is spotty throughout the park and you may not always be able to pull up directions on your phone.
• If possible, bring your own small fan, to aid in cooling off the room and for white noise.
• Bring a white noise machine.
• Just in case, bring any cleaning supplies you think you may need.
• Bring extra camp chairs for sitting out on the deck if there is more than two people in your party.
• Bring Bear Spray, have it reachable and know how to use it.
• Bring bug spray. You are closer to the water, which can mean more mosquitos.
• Bring an afterbite stick.
• Bring slippers. Bathroom floors are tile and can be cold in the morning.
• Keep the cabin free of food, crumbs, and food wrappers, or keep it tightly packed up to keep away unwanted critters.
• Keep the cabin door closed at all times.

Saving Money Tips

• If you like the view, but don’t want to pay the money to stay here, stop by and eat a meal here instead at Trapper Grill.
• If you like the view, but don’t want to pay the price of a Lakefront Retreat Cabin, you can stay in other units, and then enjoy the view from the Guests Only Lounge.
• If you like the view, but don’t want to pay the price of a Lakefront Retreat Cabin, stay in one of the other units and take your chairs to the beach.
• Note that a smaller room doesn’t always necessarily mean cheaper. For example, a one room Country Room with a king bed or two queen beds is $370.26+ tax a night, while a 2 bedroom rustic cabin with two double beds is $334.25 + tax a night.

Things to Consider

The following are some tips that didn’t fit into a previous section on this page, that are worth considering.

• If you are trying to decide between a cabin at Jenny Lake Lodge and Signal Mountain Lodge, consider going with an Upper Lakefront Retreat room at Signal. It is less expensive, and has a view from the room. The Jenny Lake Lodge cabins do not have views from their cabins.
• If you are trying to decide between a Lower and Upper Lakefront Retreat room, if you can afford it, go with the Upper Lakefront Retreat for a better view, a more private deck, and not having to hear your neighbors walk around above you. Most Lower Lakefront Retreat reviewers said they would pay the extra money and opt for the Upper on their next stay for these reasons.
• Know that some of the Lower Lakefront Retreat’s outside porches are a shared walkway with other guests.
• Many reviewers suggest an evening sunset on your deck with carry out food and drinks if you stay in the Upper Lakefront Retreat.
• Stargazing is possible from all cabins and rooms..
• Dogs are not allowed on the patio at the restaurant.
• All cabins and rooms are a short walk away from the lake and views.

Now You Know

Hopefully the information provided here will help you in your lodging and accommodations search. If you have additional questions, feel free to post them in the comments or contact me directly.

Good luck on your Grand Teton National Park Lodging search, and when you get here, to Grand Teton National Park, keep your eye peeled for a moose!

Keep Your Eye Peeled for a Moose!

Jenn Cunningham
Founder, exploreGTNP

Updated: January 21, 2025

Jackson Lake Lodge – A Grand Teton National Park Lodging Option

Jackson Lake Lodge is a full-service, historic lodge with 385 rooms comprising of suites, main lodge hotel rooms, and cottage rooms.

Jackson Lake Lodge offers:

• Four dining options (from pool side to fine dining)
• A Coffee Cart
• Four retail shops
• Event space and meeting rooms
• A large, upstairs lobby complete with floor to ceiling picture window of the Tetons
• A large, outdoor deck
• An outdoor pool
• Horseback rides
• Scenic river rafting

Jackson Lake Lodge Rooms

There are eight different types of rooms to accommodate 2-5 people.

All rooms include:

• Free Wifi
• USB Charging Station
• Coffeemaker
• Shampoo, Conditioner, & Body Wash
• Hair Dryer
• Phone
• Iron and Ironing Board

Rooms do not include:

• Air Conditioning
• TV (park rule)
• Microwave
• Radio

Note: All rooms are non-smoking. Extra cleaning fees will apply for smoking in rooms.

Note: The Classic Cottage is the only room that allows pets. There is an additional fee of $20 per night. 

Room Type	# Max	Rollaway Available	Teton View	Coffee-maker	Mini Fridge	Pets	2025 Price per night including tax
LODGE NON-VIEW ROOM – 2 QUEEN BEDS	4			✓			$567.60
CLASSIC COTTAGE – 2 QUEEN BEDS	5	✓		✓	✓	✓	$516.08
KING PATIO COTTAGE – 1 KING	3	✓		✓			$538.48
LODGE MOUNTAIN VIEW ROOM – 2 QUEENS	4		✓	✓			$717.68
MOUNTAIN VIEW COTTAGE – 2 DOUBLES	5	✓	✓	✓	✓		$717.68
MOOSE POND MOUNTAIN VIEW COTTAGE – 1 KING	3	✓	✓	✓	✓		$762.48
MOOSE POND COTTAGE SUITE – 1 KING	3	✓	✓	✓	✓		$1221.68
MORAN SUITE – 1 KING	4	✓	✓		✓		$1725.68

 

Rooms at Jackson Lake Lodge are available to rent in 2025 from May 16th through October 5th.

Reservations can be made online or by phone: 307-543-3100.

Reservations are available on a 12-month rolling basis.

Staying at the Jackson Lake Lodge – Advantages and Challenges

There are advantages and challenges for all lodging choices in Grand Teton National Park, here are Jackson Lake Lodge’s.

Please know: When I point out the advantages and/or challenges, I’m not doing so to persuade you to stay or dissuade you from staying at one of the rooms at Jackson Lake Lodge, but to tell you up front what the cottages and rooms are and are not so you can:

• go in with accurate expectations
• be happy with your choice of lodging
• avoid surprises

Full Disclosure: I have only stayed once at Jackson Lake Lodge in their Moose Pond Mountain View Cottage for one night. I will include my personal experience when helpful.

Advantage: Central Location in Park

Jackson Lake Lodge has the advantage of being centrally located in the park.

This means shorter driving times to most places and activities in the park, compared to:

• Lodging outside the park
• Colter Bay, which is farther north
• Headwaters Lodge at Flagg Ranch, as it is on the northern boundary of Grand Teton (technically in between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks)
• Jackson, WY – outside the southern border of GTNP

Important Note: While Jackson Lake Lodge has the word “Lake” in it’s title, it is not on Jackson Lake, nor within walking distance of the lake. You can see the lake in the distance.

Drive Times from Jackson Lake Lodge

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Drive times approximate without traffic:

• to Signal Mountain Lodge = 4.9 miles, 12 minutes
• to Moran Junction = 5.6 miles, 14 minutes
• to Colter Bay Marina = 6.2 miles, 16 minutes
• to Jenny Lake Visitor Center = 15.1 miles, 28 minutes
• to Moose, WY, via HWY 191/89/26 = 24.2 miles, 40 minutes – via Teton Park Road: 24 miles, 47 minutes
• to Jackson Hole Airport = 27.7 miles, 35-45 minutes
• to Jackson = 35.9 miles, 50-60 minutes
• to Yellowstone South Boundary = 22.8 miles, 35 minutes

Advantage: Views

Ok. This is probably their biggest advantage.

If you get a room with a mountain view, the views are spectacular!

You can see the entire Teton Range, and see a great view of Mt. Moran.

Honestly, what other mountain looks like this one? And with it shooting up directly from the lake? It is stunning.

If you don’t get a room with a mountain view, Jackson Lake Lodge has their main, upstairs lobby that has a floor to ceiling picture window that frames Mt. Moran perfectly. Plus you can see the entire Teton range from here too.

And speaking of their upstairs lobby:

Advantage: Large Main Lobby

This is a lobby you are going to want to hang out in.

The upstairs lobby has several couches, benches, and chairs set up to comfortably gaze out the window at the Tetons. As mentioned previously, the floor to ceiling picture window frames Mt. Moran perfectly.

And there is free wifi throughout the lodge!

Pro Tip: Jackson Lake Lodge’s upstairs lobby is a great place to ride out rainy, socked in days. Also a great place to cool off on hot, sunny days.

The lobby is a great place in the morning to watch the sunrise (if you don’t want to be outdoors or you have sleeping teenagers). Stake out a couch and watch the sunrise while drinking a cup of coffee.

Speaking of coffee…

Advantage: You Can Buy Coffee at 6:30 am

The Coffee Cart at Jackson Lake Lodge opens at 6:30 am.

This is the earliest you can purchase coffee in Grand Teton National Park!

A good thing to know if you are someone that likes to get out and about early.

Advantage: The Blue Heron Lounge

Jackson Lake Lodge has four eating establishments on site, plus the Coffee Cart. The eateries range from the Poolside Catina to fine dining at the Mural Room.

The Blue Heron Lounge is the best of all worlds. They serve a small selection of upscale food and drinks, which is a little more variety than the pool, and not at the prices of the Mural Room. The food is good and the menu is diverse, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options.

At the Blue Heron you get fantastic Teton views whether you eat outside on the deck or inside the lounge. They have large picture windows that face the Tetons; something the onsite Pioneer Grill does not, and again, you are getting them at less expensive prices than the Mural Room.

Note, even though it is a lounge, kids under 21 are welcome with their adults, both outside on the deck and inside the lounge. There isn’t a kid’s menu posted, but ask your server for kid options.

Pro Tip: If you eat out on the deck, have your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen with you. The deck gets full sun and there won’t be any umbrellas for shade. Bug spray will be helpful too as you are close to the willows below the deck.

Advantage: Free Wifi in Rooms

You don’t have to share this advantage with your kids, but I’m pretty sure they will figure it out….

All the rooms at Jackson Lake Lodge have free wifi.

Advantage: Increased Chance of Cell Service

Cell service is spotty at best in Grand Teton National Park. It can be difficult to find and harder to use consistently.

I have found Jackson Lake Lodge to have the best cell service available in the park. (Disclaimer: I use AT&T (not an affiliate) on an iPhone.)

In fact, I often suggest in my other posts and articles to come to Jackson Lake Lodge if wanting to use cell service.

Pro Tip: Willow Flats Overlook, the first pullout to the south of Jackson Lake Lodge, also has strong cell service.

Challenges of Jackson Lake Lodge

No lodging is perfect for everyone, especially inside National Parks.

What is acceptable to some, may not be to others, and that is ok!

Following are some challenges of staying at the Jackson Lake Lodge.

The challenges listed here are ones that were most often mentioned when I studied posted visitor reviews.

Please note that the challenges listed are not mentioned to dissuade you from staying at Jackson Lake Lodge.

In fact, solutions are provided for each challenge when available.

Also, I have added notes, when applicable, from my own experience of staying at Jackson Lake Lodge.

Challenges are listed to help you determine if Jackson Lake Lodge is the right lodging for you and to go in with accurate expectations.

Challenge: Rooms Are Not On or Close to the Lake

Not sure this is a “challenge”, but it should be made clear that Jackson Lake Lodge, despite having “lake” in its name, is not on or close to the lake. It is not within walking distance either like Colter Bay and Signal Mountain Lodge.

You can see the lake in the distance.

Solutions

If it is important to you to stay at a place where you can be within walking distance of Jackson Lake and a marina to access boating activities, consider staying at Signal Mountain Lodge or Colter Bay.

If you stay at Jackson Lake Lodge, you are a short driving distance from two marinas.

Signal Mountain Lodge has a marina that you can drive to in less than 15 minutes. There you can walk down to the marina to rent boats, kayaks, and canoes or go a little south of their boat ramp to swim (swim area is rocky, use water shoes).

Colter Bay is also a short car drive away (< 20 min) and is owned by the same parent company as Jackson Lake Lodge. Colter Bay has a marina where you can rent boats, kayaks, and canoes and sign up to go on scenic lake cruises. Go to Jackson Lake Lodge’s front desk to make reservations. There is also a large swimming beach there (beach is rocky, not sandy, bring water shoes).

Challenge: No Air Conditioning

This challenge isn’t exclusive to Jackson Lake Lodge, as most of the lodging inside the park does not have air conditioning.

It is worth noting here that in scrubbing previous visitor reviews, lack of air conditioning was mentioned a fair amount during the hotter months of summer. It may have been mentioned frequently because many of the rooms don’t have the tree cover to provide shade like other park lodging does, making the rooms more exposed to direct sun.

Solutions

Most rooms come with a fan found in the closet. If you don’t find one there, go to the front desk and request one.

While this next solution doesn’t help if the room is warm at night while trying to sleep (temps do cool down quite a bit at night), you can go to the main lobby and relax where it is cooler and take in the breathtaking view through the floor to ceiling picture window. In fact, I often encourage people who aren’t staying at Jackson Lake Lodge to visit the upstairs lobby as a place to cool off and enjoy the view.

My Experience

I stayed in one of the Moose Pond Mountain Cottage rooms in mid July, it faced the Tetons and it didn’t have any tree cover for shade. The room was warm, but not unbearably so. I didn’t know to look in the closet for a fan or I would have. I opened all the windows, there are large ones on the west side of the room, and small ones on the east side of the room. It didn’t give much of a cross breeze, but I slept with them open all night and was not uncomfortable. My only complaint was when I opened the windows I could hear my loud next door neighbors clear as day.

Challenge: The Cottage Rooms Are Not Stand Alone Cottages

None of the rooms offered at Jackson Lake Lodge are stand alone structures.

The “Classic Cottage”, “King Patio Cottage”, “Mountain View Cottage”, “Moose Pond Mountain View Cottage”, and the “Moose Pond Mountain View Cottage Suite” are all housed in multiple unit buildings. You will share walls with other units like a motel. All cottage rooms do have their own private outdoor entrance.

For cottages that have a balcony, there are out door wooden dividers between yours and your neighbor’s.

Solutions

This challenge is another one that is more of a clarification than a challenge. It is called out and clarified so you know what to expect and that there aren’t any surprises when you find out they are not stand alone cottages.

If you prefer a stand alone cabin/cottage you could try requesting one at Colter Bay Cabins. Do know that Colter Bay Cabins are very rustic and basic cabins with no extras or frills; and know that even if you get a stand alone cabin, it may be mere inches away from another stand alone cabin.

Jenny Lake Lodge does have individual, stand alone cabins. Do note they are a bump up in price.

Challenge: Housekeeping

Like most other lodging around Grand Teton National Park in these Covid times, there is no housekeeping services for multiple night stays.

Solutions

You can call housekeeping and request needed items: towels, sheets, blankets etc…I would maybe be even more proactive and find out where housekeeping is and walk over and get needed items. That way you aren’t waiting on them to drop off your requested items.

Be even more proactive by bringing any needed cleaning supplies you think you’ll need. (Since Covid, who doesn’t travel with disinfectant/cleaning supplies?) 

Challenge: “Seems Expensive for What You Get.”

This is a challenge mentioned frequently for most lodging inside Grand Teton National Park.

To accurately set expectations, most of Jackson Lake Lodge’s rooms equate to three star rooms for luxury prices. 

I know, that is tough to hear.

When you pay luxury prices you expect luxury rooms.

Unfortunately, this is not so in Grand Teton National Park.

If you are an experienced National Park traveler, this may not be a surprise to you.

If you are new to National Parks, this may not only be a surprise, but an unwelcome one at best.

Jackson Lake Lodge is a historic lodge built in 1955 and is on the list of National Historic Landmarks. It’s a large, grand lodge, with a picture window giving the lodge a majestic air. So when visitors enter their rooms, it can sometimes be a shock to see their room is similar to a motel room. A motel room with aging furniture and furnishings. With no rooms having AC or a microwave, and only a few with fridges, the room can feel minimal and stark. Not luxurious.

Solutions

First solution that comes to mind is setting expectations, which I hope this article is doing. By knowing what to expect, what a place entails – what it has and what it doesn’t, you can make a decision on what is right for you, what you can put up with and what you can’t.

Also, you can enjoy the advantages of the Jackson Lake Lodge listed on this page without lodging here. You can stay elsewhere and still come and eat at the restaurants, shop the stores, do the hikes, do the horse rides, sign up for boating at Colter Bay and on the Snake River, use the wifi, get a cell signal, look for animals, relax in the upstairs lobby, and of course, enjoy the view, both inside and outside.

Tips When Making a Reservation

To make a reservation, call: 307-543-3100 or book online. Add special requests by telling the reservation agent on the phone, or add them to the “notes” box on the online form.

• Definitely book directly through the Grand Teton Lodge Company either by calling 307-543-3100 or online. (3rd party vendors often charge more and have more restrictive cancellation policies).
• Reservations are available on a 12-month rolling basis.
• If staying at a Mountain View Cottage, Moose Pond View Room or Suite, request a top floor (bottom floors can hear movements of top floors). They can’t guarantee a top floor, but it helps to ask for one.
• If bringing your dog, request the Classic Cottage. Only Classic Cottages allow pets, $20 per night.
• Rollaway Beds are $12 a night.
• No rooms have microwaves, some have fridges, keep that in mind about leftovers.
• If possible, book your activities when booking your room. This includes horse rides, scenic river raft rides, and eating at the Mural Room. It is difficult to sign up for these when arriving as they fill quickly. If activities aren’t available to book when you make your reservation, do ask the reservation agent what the first day for sign up is and mark it on your calendar to call back!

Tips to Enhance Your Stay

Here are some additional tips while staying at Jackson Lake Lodge:

• Have a good map and directions to get to Jackson Lake Lodge. Cell service is spotty throughout the park and you may not always be able to pull up directions on your phone.
• Upon entering your room, make sure your windows open if you think you’ll need to open them at any time to cool off – better to know right away and call maintenance then find out in evening.
• Know you can get an uber to Jackson Lake Lodge from the airport, but it is very difficult to get one from the lodge back to the airport.
• Bring binoculars – you are right over a prime animal area – the willows, look for animals off the back deck of the lodge.
• Make all activity reservations early and before you arrive if possible, as they fill up quickly and may be full if you try to sign up when you arrive at the lodge.
• Just in case, bring any cleaning supplies you think you may need.
• If you want to eat at the Mural room, make reservations through OpenTable. If possible, make reservations before arriving at the lodge.

Reservations and Cancellation Policies

The following reservations and cancellation policies information is taken directly from the Grand Teton Lodge Company web site. So where you see “we” mentioned, it is Grand Teton Lodge Company.

• Check-in is at 4:00 PM MST, check-out is 11:00 AM MST.
• All rooms are non-smoking and cooking is not permitted.
• Special room requests are not guaranteed. We will make every effort to accommodate special requests.
• Accessible accommodations are available on a limited basis and may be reserved by contacting our reservations office at 307-543-3100.
• Televisions and air conditioning are not available in our accommodations. Some room types have ceiling fans and floor fans are available upon request.
• Rollaway beds are available for most locations and room types at an additional fee. Only one permitted per room. Please advise us if you will need a rollaway when you make your reservation.
• Pack and Play cribs are available for all room types at no extra charge. Please advise us if you will need a crib when you make your reservation.
• Children under 11 stay free, there is a surcharge for extra persons in the room (12 years and older).
• Park entrance fees are not included in your reservation and payable upon arrival at the park entrance. Please call the National Park Service at 307-739-3399 for more information or visit online.
• Deposit Policy – At the time of booking, a 2 night deposit is required per room plus tax, except for stays of one night only, in which case only 1 night’s deposit will be charged. The balance of your stay is due upon arrival.
• Credit cards that expire prior to your stay will not be accepted online but can be accepted via phone. You will receive a confirmation email with your stay details by the end of the next business day.
• Cancellation Policy – From booking date until 7 days prior to the scheduled arrival date, the deposit will be refunded less a $30.00 administrative fee per room.  Cancellations or reduction in length of stay received within 7 days of arrival will result in forfeiture of deposit. All changes or cancellations due to inclement weather or changes in flight schedules are subject to the penalties stated above. A no-show on confirmed date of arrival will be considered a cancellation of entire stay and forfeiture of deposit.
• Reservation Changes – Date changes or reduction/addition of nights made 7 days prior to your arrival day can be made free of charge, based on availability.  Reductions in stay within 7 days of your arrival day will result in a forfeit of your deposit.
• No-Shows – A no-show on confirmed date of arrival will be considered a cancellation of entire stay and forfeiture of deposit.
• Early Departures – Upon check-in, you will be responsible for paying for all nights of your stay.  If you choose to check out earlier than your originally scheduled departure day, you will still be responsible for any nights remaining on your stay.
• Refunds for reservations will be issued in the same payment form as tendered at the time of purchase. If payment was made by credit card, we will credit the same account. Please allow 7-10 days for a credit to appear on your credit card statement.
• Pet Policies: If you plan to travel with a pet, please familiarize yourself with the National Park Pet Regulations and our pet friendly accommodations.

Now You Know

Hopefully the information provided here will help you in your lodging and accommodations search. If you have additional questions, feel free to post them in the comments or contact me directly.

Good luck on your Grand Teton National Park Lodging search, and when you get here, to Grand Teton National Park, keep your eye peeled for a moose!

Keep Your Eye Peeled for a Moose!

Jenn Cunningham
Founder, exploreGTNP