Grand Teton’s Colter Bay Cabins – The Advantages and Challenges

Grand Teton’s Colter Bay Cabins

As you are planning your Grand Teton vacation, you have probably found that there are many lodging choices with places to stay inside and outside of Grand Teton National Park.

We will detail the advantages and challenges of the different types of lodging and give you information to help you decide what lodging is best for you.

Here we will cover and flush out all the details and highlight the advantages and challenges of staying at the Colter Bay Cabins in Colter Bay Village in Grand Teton National Park.

Colter Bay Cabins

Colter Bay Cabins are found in Colter Bay Village, a full-service village located in the northern part of Grand Teton National Park and on the east side of Jackson Lake. (see park map).

Colter Bay highlighted on Grand Teton National Park Map – Click on map to view entire map

The cabins are centrally located in Colter Bay Village. They are a short walk away from the marina, restaurants, shops, lake, and Teton views.

Map of Colter Bay Village

Cabins

The cabins are historic, rustic, log cabins nestled in the forest, surrounded by lodgepole pine trees. The inside of the cabins are decorated with classic western furniture and accessories.

Colter Bay Cabin #617 – Photo Courtesy of TheTravelingGal.com

Inside look at a Colter Bay Cabin – photo courtesy of HappyGJackson

While “nestled in the forest” and “surrounded by trees” are nice descriptions, and are true, the key words to focus on here are “rustic” and “historic”.

Many of these cabins are the original cabins that belonged to some of the first setters in Jackson Hole, making them about 100 years old.

See??? Historic!

John D. Rockefeller acquired these cabins when he was buying up land to donate to the U.S. Government to create Grand Teton National Park. He moved the cabins from their original homesteads and built Colter Bay with them.

Some of the cabins come with plaques inside telling you the history of that specific cabin.

What these cabins do not come with are phones, A/C, wifi, mini fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, or TVs.

See??? Rustic!

Colter Bay Cabins – photo courtesy of National Park Service

Who the Colter Bay Cabins Are and Are Not For

The Colter Bay Cabins are spacious and roomy, but they are basic.

They have a bed(s) (often praised by reviewers for being very comfortable), a wardrobe to hang clothes, bedside table, sometimes a small desk, and a bathroom with a shower.

They are surprisingly roomy, with a little more room to move around in and to store luggage than an average hotel room.

BUT…they are not equipped like hotel rooms or condos.

As previously mentioned, unlike hotel rooms, they do not come with:

• TVs (no lodging inside Grand Teton National Park does – park rule)
• A/C
• Wifi
• Mini-fridges
• Microwaves
• Phones
• Iron/Ironing Board
• Coffee Makers

There are ways to work around and deal with the absence of these items, and I’ll tell you how in a minute (see the Challenges section below), but know it requires extra effort and being proactive on your part.

And if that doesn’t appeal to you, and/or hotel rooms/condos are the type of lodging you are looking for, no need to keep reading.

Colter Bay Cabins are not for you.

And that’s ok!!!

Instead, head on over to Jackson Lake Lodge, Signal Mountain Lodge, Jenny Lake Lodge, or Dornan’s Spur Cabins for other lodging options INSIDE Grand Teton National Park.

Please know: I tell you this not to dissuade you from staying at Colter Bay Cabins, but to tell you up front what the cabins are and are not so you can:

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

If you are still interested or curious about Colter Bay Cabins, read on!

Colter Bay Cabin #235

Accurate Expectations and Details

The best way to set accurate expectations with Colter Bay Cabins is to approach them as:

• Lodging that is a step above camping. Where you don’t have to set anything up and it comes with a bed, indoor plumbing, and your own shower (except for the option of cabins that have a shared shower).
• Paying for the advantage and convenience of staying inside the park, being closer to park sights and activities, reducing drive times.
• Paying for the access to nearby services and amenities including Jackson Lake and Teton views.

Colter Bay Marina – photo courtesy of Brian Sterling @ Flickr

Availability and Pricing

The Colter Bay Cabins are available to rent from early to mid May through the end of September. Reservations can be made online or by phone: 307-543-3100.

Reservations open one year in advance.

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

There are seven different types of 1-2 room cabins to accommodate 2-10 people.

Note: The largest size bed available is a double sized bed, which is smaller than a queen sized bed.

Here is the cabin map you receive upon check-in. Free wifi is noted at the cabin check-in office, restaurants, guest cabin, and launderette (at very bottom of map).

Colter Bay Cabin Map – Click for larger image

Advantages of Staying in Colter Bay Cabins

There are three main advantages to lodging at the cabins in Colter Bay:

• Financial
• Location
• Abundance of services, amenities, and recreation of Colter Bay Village

Financial

The Colter Bay Cabins overall are the least expensive cabins INSIDE Grand Teton National Park.

The least expensive cabins – the 1 Room -Shared Bathroom cabins with either 2 twin beds or 1 double bed are $164.28​ a night in 2022.

Note: The shared bathroom cabins cannot be reserved online, you need to call the reservations desk: 307-543-3100.

Colter Bay Cabins #223 & #225 – Shared Bathroom Cabins (that also share bathrooms with units #219, #221, and #227)

Advantage: Location

While Colter Bay is located towards the northern part of Grand Teton National Park, it is still close to all the sights, hikes, and activities in the park.

Colter Bay is also one of two lodging options located within walking distance to Jackson Lake (Signal Mountain Lodge being the other).

You can literally walk down to the lake for an unobstructed view of the Tetons and/or jump into Jackson Lake.

View of Tetons from north end of Swimming Beach in Colter Bay

Advantage: Services, Amenities, and Recreation

Another advantage of staying in the cabins at Colter Bay is the full use of all of Colter Bay Village’s services, amenities, and recreation.

All are easily accessible and within walking distance (well, except the gas station – it’s walkable, but a long walk up a narrow road…safer and better to drive).

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

Amenities include: Visitor’s Center, Museum, Full-Service Marina, Amphitheater, and Gift Shops.

Recreation options include: Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Scenic Cruises, Horseback Riding, and Picnicking.

Colter Bay Cabins location in Colter Bay Village – Click for larger image.

Colter Bay Cabins #1005 & #1007 – photo credit: SeniorTravelerTF

Colter Bay Village Services

Following is a short description of each Colter Bay service/facility, along with some insider tips when applicable.

Grocery Store

For a grocery store in a national park, Colter Bay’s General Store does a good job providing a large selection of fresh and packaged food including organic fruits and vegetables!

They are a full-service grocery store and even have a small deli with freshly prepared sandwiches to grab and go. You can also find fresh made donuts and coffee.

In the back of the store, there is a small liquor store that sells beer and wine including locally brewed beer.

Also you will find one of my favorite things located in Colter Bay’s General Store -  their ice cream station.

The ice cream station is located in the back of the store between the deli and liquor section and has a selection of about 6-10 flavors. The ice cream station is a popular item in the evening, requiring two to three employees to man it.

Be sure to get your ice cream before store closing hours!

Colter Bay General Store

Pro Tip: If the ice cream station doesn’t have a flavor you want, go to the freezer section and you will find a few flavors of ice cream in multiple sized cartons to pick from; as a bonus it’s usually cheaper too!

Pro Tip: The Colter Bay General Store is also a place to get all your s’mores supplies! 

Pro Tip: A great place for s’mores is the north end of Swimming Beach. You will have an unobstructed view of Jackson Lake and the Tetons! (They no longer have campfire rings there, so you will need to bring your own camper stove.)

Coffee Bar

Never fear, they have your Starbucks coffee here at Colter Bay’s Coffee Bar, located inside the General Store.

For 2024 - hours open are listed as 7:00 am (I know! It needs to be way earlier!!) to 3:00 pm.

Starbucks Coffee at Colter Bay's Coffee Bar inside the General Store - photo courtesy of Ricko Pan @ Unsplash

Pro Tip: While anxiously awaiting your order to be made, take a look around at all the knick-knacks and souvenirs. Get your coffee and souvenirs at one time…two birds, one stone…

Restaurants

There are two restaurants in Colter Bay Village: the Ranch House and the Cafe Court Pizzeria.

Ranch House

The Ranch House describes itself as “American Comfort Food with a BBQ Twist”.

It is a sit-down, dine-in, restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is a bar area you can sit at and order food too.

Possibly one major plus for the Ranch House is that it opens at 6:30 am. The earliest in Colter Bay that you can get coffee.

Note: The Ranch House does not have views of Jackson Lake or the Tetons.

Note: The Ranch House closes in between meals. Be sure to check the Ranch House hours of operation.

Two Restaurants Located in Colter Bay Village

Cafe Court Pizzeria

Here you can get pizza, salads, and sub sandwiches starting at 11:00 am.

You can dine in at the Cafe Court Pizzeria if you choose, just know, like the Ranch House, the Cafe Court doesn’t have views of Jackson Lake or the Tetons.

If the view is important to you, (like it is to me) place a to-go order online, pick it up, and head to the marina, Swimming Beach, or the picnic area at Swimming Beach. All have fantastic views!

My Experience: My family has had pizza here many times and loved the pizza. They are very large and two large pizzas feed our family of seven very easily with a few slices left over.**

**Your results may vary.

Ranch House Restaurant-Bar and Cafe Court Pizzeria Restaurants in Colter Bay Village - photo courtesy of Yelp reviewer - A.C.

Launderette and Showers

These are located in the same building next to the General Store.

The launderette is open 24/7, but you will need to check the hours for the showers, as they usually close around 7:00 pm (which to me seems early).

Showers are separated into men's and women’s showers and cost $5.00 a shower with towel rental and soap extra.

My Experience: I like the showers here, as there isn't a time limit, and every time I have used them there has been plenty of hot water.

Showers and Laundry in Colter Bay Village, plus free wifi here.

Pro Tip: Wear shower shoes!!!

Pro Tip: There is free wifi service here.

Ranger Station

You don’t know how useful a ranger station is until you need one! So take note, the Ranger Station is located at the Colter Bay Visitor’s Center.

Here you can get your boat permits that are needed if you have brought your own boat to access the lakes and rivers in Grand Teton.

The Ranger station is where you need to pick up your backcountry camping permits.

And the Ranger Station is where you will find actual park rangers. They are the people to ask when in need of ideas of things to do, where to go, and what to see. They also have the latest and most up-to-date information on what is going on in the park. They are the experts and they know their stuff!

The rangers even have activities you can do with them!

The Rangers at Colter Bay lead a variety of programs throughout the day including a hike to Swan Lake, a lakeshore stroll, Indian arts and culture, wildlife watches, short presentations on park highlights, and a variety of evening programs.

Grand Teton Park Ranger - photo courtesy of National Park Service

Check the Ranger-led program page for current schedules.

Service Station and Convenience Store

While not really within walking distance, the Service Station and Convenience Store are conveniently located at the entrance of Colter Bay Village. Stop here to gas the car for the day’s adventures and go inside and grab souvenirs, snacks, and coffee too.

Grab Snacks and Souvenirs at the Colter Bay Village Convenience Store - photo courtesy of GBarkz of Unsplash

Full-Service Marina

The Colter Bay Marina is just a short walk away.

Here you can:

• Sign up for a guided fishing trip for Jackson Lake or the Snake River.
• Take a scenic lake cruise (with and without meals) (Note: Check water levels - Colter Bay Marina was closed in 2022 due to low water levels and no scenic cruises ran).
• Rent kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. (Note: Check water levels - Colter Bay Marina was closed in 2022 due to low water levels and boat rentals were not available.)
• Walk the Lakeshore Hiking Trail (1-2 miles round trip).
• Walk out to “The Point” (a quick side trip found along the Lakeshore Hiking Trail) for fantastic views and to watch the boats come in and go out.

Colter Bay Marina in Grand Teton National Park

Pro Tip: If you have some time, set up a hammock on your way to or close to the point and watch the boats drive in and out.

Colter Bay Visitor’s Center and Museum

Located by the marina, the visitor’s center is there for you…the visitor.

Go to the Colter Bay Visitor’s Center to:

• See the 35 artifacts from the David T. Vernon Indian Arts Collection.
• See a variety of short movies on Grand Teton National Park including the fabulous documentary on the reintroduction of Wolves in Yellowstone.
• Attend a ranger-led program.
• Talk with park rangers.
• Shop the bookstore and gift shop.
• Chat with visiting Native American artists and view their work.

Colter Bay Visitor Center - photo courtesy of National Park Service

Amphitheater

The Amphitheater is located right next to the Colter Bay Visitor’s Center. Here, come by in the evenings where rangers lead programs on all things Grand Teton National Park. Programs include presentations on animals found in the park, wildflowers, geology, history, and much more.

There are usually two presentations a night.

The later presentation usually has a campfire going, so come down to the front to get warm.

You can also attend a non-denominational church service at the Amphitheater on Sunday mornings.

Evening Park Ranger Program at Colter Bay Amphitheater - photo courtesy of nps.gov

Stop by the visitor’s center for a schedule.

Gift Shops

No destination is complete without gift shops to pick up souvenirs for loved ones and more importantly, for yourself!

Colter Bay has three shops you can visit for souvenirs and clothing.

The main gift shop is connected to the General Store, by the Coffee Bar. This is the largest shop where you can find all the usual suspects: t-shirts, hats, sweatshirts, jewelry, art, candles, key chains etc… and they have camping and hiking gear for sale there too.

The Visitor’s Center has a bookstore that sells gift and souvenir items too.

The third shop is found in the marina store. Here you can also get t-shirts and hats.

Something for everyone in Colter Bay's gift shops

Pro Tip: In the main gift shop, look for the “Sale” table, there are usually some good items to be had and as the season goes on, there are more and more to pick from.

Recreation at Colter Bay Village

Okay, this is where Colter Bay really does shine, it’s long list of recreational activities and opportunities, including:

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Boating
• Scenic Cruises
• Horseback Riding
• Picnicking

Hiking

Colter Bay serves as the trailhead for three hikes. All are relatively flat and range in distances from 1-mile round trip (RT) to 10 miles RT.

• Lakeshore Trail - 1-2 miles RT
• Heron Pond-Swan Lake Loop - 3.2 miles RT
• Hermitage Point - 10 miles RT

View from the outside loop of the Lakeshore Trail at Colter Bay

Pro Tip: Lakeshore Trail is a great intro hike to Colter Bay and Jackson Lake, and has fantastic views of the Tetons on the outside loop.

Pro Tip: If you do Lakeshore Trail, for the best views - start and walk along the marina. When you get to the outer loop, go counterclockwise, then finish the inner loop clockwise ending by the amphitheater/visitor's center or back at the marina.

Fishing

You can book a private, guided fishing trip through Colter Bay for both lake fishing on Jackson Lake or fly fishing on the Snake River. These trips are open to the beginner up to the avid angler.

Fishing in Grand Teton - photo courtesy of National Park Service

Guided Fishing Info

Pro Tip: You will need to purchase a Wyoming State Fishing License no matter what type of fishing you do. You can purchase one at the Colter Bay Marina store.

Swimming

Colter Bay has a designated swimming area, appropriately called "Swimming Beach". It is a large beach and has fantastic views of the Tetons.

Two things to know before going - the beach is a rock beach, not sand, and in the afternoons you will be in full sun.

Colter Bay Swimming Beach

Now, as uncomfortable as a rocky beach sounds, the advantage is that you don't have the problem of sand going everywhere. Also, you can prepare by wearing water shoes and bringing chairs if blankets laid out on the rocks don't appeal to you.

Be sure to bring and reapply sunscreen and/or bring an umbrella or a portable sun shade.

Note: I cannot stress enough how much you will need sunscreen. It is really easy to burn here with the high elevation and the thinner atmosphere.

Boating and Scenic Cruises

Want to escape the crowds?

We've got you.

The perfect way to leave the crowds behind and get a different perspective of Jackson Lake and the Tetons is by renting a boat or taking a scenic cruise.

Renting a Canoe or Kayak

The nice thing about renting a canoe or kayak at Colter Bay is that they are already in the water. You don’t have to load them up and transport them anywhere! You just put on your life jacket, grab your paddle and go. The marina staff will give you a map and instructions.

Boat Rental Prices and Info

Canoe Rental from Colter Bay on Jackson Lake

Take a Scenic Cruise

If you’d rather relax, get closer to the Tetons, and leave the navigating to someone else, a scenic cruise is a good option.

Colter Bay offers cruises throughout the day with and without meal options.

All cruises take you over to the west side of the lake closer to the Tetons.

Along the way, a narrator gives you information on John Colter, who Colter Bay was named after, and other history of the area. As you get closer to the Tetons, they give you more information on the geology of the area.

If there is extra time (there usually is), the narrator will ask the audience what subject they want to know more about.

Prices, Times, and Info

Colter Bay Scenic Lake Cruise

Rent a Motorboat

If you are comfortable operating a small, 15ft boat powered by a 9.9-horse engine, this is the option for you. You can go farther in a shorter amount of time than kayaks and canoes, and you are not tied to any schedules like the scenic cruises.

Boat Rental Prices and Info

Colter Bay Motorboat Rental on Jackson Lake

Horseback Rides

Colter Bay has 1 or 2-hour horseback rides for all riders, from beginners to experts. Both rides include winding through lodgepole pine forests, seeing Heron Pond and Swan Lake, and riding through meadows. The 2-hour ride takes you a little further to where you can see views of the Tetons.

Horseback Ride Prices

Colter Bay Horse Ride

Picnics

As Colter Bay is right on Jackson Lake with views of the Tetons, it makes a great place for picnics.

You will find a couple of picnic tables scattered here and there at the marina and along Swimming Beach, with more tables located at the north end of Swimming Beach.

And if you don't need a picnic table, throw a blanket down on Swimming Beach or anywhere you see fit.

Couple with their dog at Colter Bay Picnic Area (north end of Swimming Beach)

Important: Picnics are fun, but come with the responsibility to protect yourselves and the wildlife. Please learn all the safety tips for food in Grand Teton National Park.

Challenges of Staying at Colter Bay Cabins

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 Colter Bay Cabins.

The challenges listed here are ones that are obvious, like “no views from cabins” or “no coffee maker” and other ones that were the most often mentioned when I studied posted visitor reviews, such as “the walls are thin” and “could hear the neighbors”.

Please note that the challenges listed are not mentioned to dissuade you from staying at the Colter Bay Cabins.

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

Also, I have added notes, when applicable, from my own experience of staying at Colter Bay Cabins.

Challenges are listed to help you determine if the Colter Bay Cabins is the right lodging for you and to go in with accurate expectations.

Challenge: Cabins do not have a view of the lake or mountains.

The cabins are nestled in the forest and surrounded by trees which block the view of the Tetons and Jackson Lake. The good news is both are a short walk and/or drive away.

Solutions:

• Walk or drive to the marina. Here you will see the bay, boats, and the Tetons in the background.
• Walk or drive to Swimming Beach. Swimming Beach is right on Jackson Lake and you will have unobstructed views of the Tetons. A few picnic tables are scattered around. Best to bring blankets or chairs to sit.
• Walk or drive to the northern end of Swimming Beach to the picnic area. Again, you will be directly on Jackson Lake, have unobstructed views of the Tetons, and access to picnic tables.

Challenge: “No wifi in the cabin.”

Individual cabins do not have wifi, but there is free wifi in the:

• Restaurants
• Cabin guest lounge
• Cabin check-in building
• Launderette and showers building
• Grocery store

Some cabins located close to these places might be able to pick up the wifi. Key word: might.

Solutions:

• Go to the designated wifi spots in Colter Bay.
• The cabin guest lounge, laundromat, and cabin check-in building are all open 24/7 and the restaurants have picnic tables outside to sit at when they are closed.
• Go to Jackson Lake Lodge and use their free wifi.

My experience

I have had better luck with the wifi by the restaurants and the cabin check-in building. The laundromat, for me, is not as lucky as I seem to get kicked off more often and it can be slower. I have no idea why.

Challenge: “The walls are thin.”

“I could hear my neighbors so clearly, it was like they were in the room with me.” – TripAdvisor Reviewer

To be honest, this one was mentioned quite a lot.

Which is not surprising, as these cabins are over 100 years old and are often right next to each other, almost sharing a wall if not already sharing a wall (some cabins are duplexes).

Noise Reducing Solutions:

Here are some suggestions to help minimize the noise and/or help you cope with the noise.

• Don’t rent one of the shared bathroom cabins. There are more rooms in one building, which means more neighbors, and more possibility of noise. Also, they are closer to the restaurant and you might hear it’s generator.
• Request a stand alone cabin (prepare your spirit they can’t guarantee one).
• Close your cabin’s bathroom door. It is often next to the next door cabin’s bathroom. Shutting the door can help reduce noise.
• Get a box fan from the front desk. The box fan can create some white noise.
• Earplugs.
• Ear buds/phones.
• Bring your own white noise machine.

NOTE: If these solutions don’t appeal to you, and you feel the noise factor may be an issue for you, this might be the point where you consider paying more money for other lodging. Such as Jackson Lake Lodge or Dornan’s Spur Cabins inside the park, or lodging outside the park.

My Experience

I stayed two nights in Cabin #837. I found the walls to be thin and that I could hear everything my neighbors did.

I was prepared for this as I had done research and knew this was a possibility. I had only one adjoining cabin on one side (#835). My neighbors were a mother and daughter travelling together and they were quiet.

Vey quiet.

But I could still hear them, clear as day, every time they spoke.

To minimize some sound, I kept my bathroom door shut (it’s the closest to the adjoining cabin). I also made a great effort to be as quiet as I could to minimize noise for them.

Challenge: No Air-conditioning in Cabins.

In the height of summer, the inside of the cabins can get hot.

Solutions:

• Go to the front desk and ask for box fan.
• Be proactive, ask for a box fan when making a reservation if you are going in July and August.
• There is air conditioning in the restaurants, shops, and stores.
• If needing a rest in a cool place – go to Jackson Lake Lodge’s large common room on the second floor.

My Experience

I was there in mid-July and the cabin was warm in the afternoon. My cabin had a ceiling fan that I kept on at all times and that helped. Again, I knew of this issue going in and was prepared to ask for a box fan if I needed one. I didn’t. (I was only there in the afternoon one day, for a short amount of time….)

Challenge: No housekeeping provided during stay.

Before Covid, you could opt out housekeeping for a multiple night stay to save money.

For safety, in 2020 and 2021 no daily housekeeping was offered for multiple night stays. The walkways outside the cabins are dirt and not paved, therefore the floor of the cabin can become dirty after a few days.

Solutions:

To keep the dirt to a minimum:

• Taking shoes off and keeping them by the door.
• Bring wipes, to wipe the floor and/or shoes as needed.
• Go to the front desk and borrow a broom.

NOTE: For fresh towels you can stop by the front desk and pick them up

My Experience

I didn’t find this to be a problem for me, and that may be because it was only me and I was there two days. I imagine if you are a family of four, staying for a week, the floors would become dusty, therefore keeping shoes by the door and sweeping may need to be done.

Also, to reduce dependency on the housekeeping office, you may want to bring and have handy your own cleaning supplies. When I was stayed in here it was the summer of 2020. I had my own cleaning supplies on me at all times that summer….

Challenge: No coffee makers in the cabin.

This is can be a tough one for many.

Solutions:

• Bring your own coffee maker or kettle.
• Coffee Cart at Jackson Lake Lodge – opens @ 6:00 am.
• Colter Bay Ranch House Restaurant opens @ 6:30 am.
• Colter Bay Service Station opens at 7:00 am.
• Signal Mountain Convenience Store opens at 7:00 am.
• Colter Bay Coffee Bar at General Store @ 7:30 am.

My Experience

I don’t feel like my experience really helps anything here, as people run the spectrum of wanting coffee early and frequently to those who don’t drink it. I’m usually out and about early in the morning to go get sunrise pictures and would stop for coffee later in the morning.

In 2021, I did go to Jackson Lake Lodge around 6:30 am to the Coffee Cart and there was about a 10 minute line, followed by a 5 minute wait after ordering. We sat on the couches by the big picture window and drank our coffee. It was a good way to start the day.

Challenge: No Cooking Facilities/Kitchen

While this isn’t a challenge for people looking for hotel like rooms, it is one for people who prefer to do their own cooking and meal prep while traveling. And not having a kitchen probably doesn’t come as a surprise since these cabins don’t come with coffeemakers.

Solutions:

• There are ice machines scattered throughout the cabin area of the village for coolers. Ice is free!
• If you are looking for lodging with your own cooking facilities and/or kitchen inside Grand Teton National Park – check Signal Mountain Lodge or Dornan Spur Cabins.

Challenge: The showers in the private rooms are small

This is something that was mentioned a lot in visitor’s reviews.

And they are right, the showers are tight.

Solutions:

Honestly, I don’t think there are any good alternatives, solutions, or workarounds on this one.

• You could go use the public pay showers at the launderette in the village. They are pretty good, but maybe only a tad bit bigger. But….I think the fact you would be trading your own private shower for a public, pay for shower for little space gain isn’t really a good alternative.
• You could go use the public, pay showers at Signal Mountain Campground. I’ve never used them but heard you get a small little enclosed room to shower in, for a cost, and the shower has a time limit.

My Experience

I agree, I thought the showers were small too.

But, I was okay with that.

The fact that I had my own bathroom, with a shower, with plenty of hot water that I didn’t have to pay extra for, out weighed the smaller size for me. Just a little difficult to shave the legs!

Challenge: Cell Service is little to none.

This is a common issue throughout the entire park. Depending on what kind of phone you have and what provider you use, you might find pockets of service around Colter Bay.

Solutions:

• Around Colter Bay, some people have luck on Swimming Beach, by the Laundromat, and by the marina. Key word: some.
• Visit Jackson Lake Lodge.
• It’s a bit of a drive (10 min) but there is good cell service at Willow Flats Overlook, just to the south of Jackson Lake Lodge.

My Experience

I have a an iPhone and AT&T service provider. I often get cell service by the Laundromat, General Store, Restaurants, and by sometimes at the benches by the John Colter rock at the Colter Bay Marina.

If I know I need strong and consistent cell service, I often go to Willow Flats Overlook. It works for me every time. And I like the view and snapping a picture or two from there.

IMPORTANT TIP

The following is listed as an “Important Tip” instead of a “Challenge” because it’s a proactive and preventative measure to be taken. This is something you need to do when you arrive at your cabin, and it is advice that is given to you on a paper when you check in at the front desk, on a paper inside the cabin, and on their web site: Animal Awareness & Safety (scroll to mid page).

You need to check your cabin for critters and bats and/or any evidence of them.

Remember, these are rustic cabins and they are located in the forest, in the wilderness, where it is natural for bats, squirrels, mice, spiders, etc… to live.

Therefore, it is very important – the MOST IMPORTANT thing to do FIRST thing – is check for any signs of animals, spiders, or bats.

• Check along the edges of the room (floor and ceiling) and closet for any evidence of animals or bats.
• Look under the bed and the wardrobe to make sure there isn’t anything left by previous guests that would attract animals.
• Check around the outside of the cabin to make sure there isn’t evidence of bats (guano).

NOTE: Again, this is what you are told to do by the front office. If you find any evidence of animals and/or bats. Go to the front desk immediately!

Pro Tip: If you think you are going to need it, check to make sure the heater works when first entering the cabin. (Save yourself from finding out it doesn’t at 2:00 am when you need it.) Also, heaters have been reported to be loud. Check the noise level to see if it is acceptable to you, consider bringing extra blankets as a plan b.

My Experience

Once again, I was prepared for this proactive and preventative measure from the research of previous guests reviews. When I arrived I immediately:

• Turned on my phone’s flashlight and inspected every corner, top and bottom of the cabin, checking along every seam between the logs of the entire cabin.
• Checked under the bed and wardrobe (with flashlight).
• Checked the bathroom.
• Checked all the windows.
• Checked the sheets and bedding by pulling the comforter back and looking through the sheets.
• Walked around the outside of the cabin looking for any bats/bat guano.

I’m happy to report I didn’t find anything.

Well, I did find that the wardrobe hadn’t been dusted under for a long time…but it was only dust, so it wasn’t a deal breaker for me.

I was glad to find out my cabin didn’t have any animals, spiders, and bats and I was going to do everything I could to keep it that way. Here are some things I did that you might consider doing to reduce attracting anything unwanted:

• I kept the door to my cabin closed at ALL TIMES. Even when unloading luggage from the car.
• I didn’t keep any food in my cabin. I kept it in my car. Even unopened food.
• If I ate anything in my cabin, I took all wrappers, crumbs, and garbage to a bear resistant garbage can.
• I moved my bed away from the wall. These are log cabins, I didn’t want any bugs or spiders coming through and landing on my bed.

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.

• 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 a year in advance.
• Book direct from Grand Teton Lodge Company for the best rates and availability (3rd party vendors often charge more and have more restrictive cancellation policies).
• If need a rollaway or a crib, tell them when making the reservation. That way they’ll have it ready to go when you check in and you won’t have to wait for one. There is a nightly fee of $10.50 plus tax per rollaway. Cribs are pack and play style and are free of charge.
• If you have mobility issues, mention it at reservations so they will give you a cabin with a paved walk way.
• When choosing a cabin, keep in mind that the largest bed size available is a double, which is smaller than a queen sized bed.
• For less noise, request a stand alone cabin. (Be prepared that this is a long shot to get one, but if it is available, they will do their best to give it to you.) 
• If your dates aren’t available, as summer gets closer, keep checking. As time gets closer people start adjusting their dates and yours might free up.
• 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.

Tips to Enhance Your Stay

Here are some additional tips while staying in the Colter Bay Cabins:

• Have a good map and directions to get to Colter Bay Cabins. Cell service is spotty throughout the park and you may not always be able to pull up directions on your phone.
• When first arriving and doing the recommended check through of the cabin, check to make sure the heater works if you think you will use/need it.
• Bring a coffee maker or an electric kettle, and coffee.
• If needed, and if possible, bring any extra blankets and pillows and/or an electric blanket. (Heaters have been reported to be loud, and these items can be your backup plan).
• Bring a fused power strip. (For all the extras you may be bringing).
• Bring a portable electric heater for the bathroom. Heat in the cabin doesn’t seem to reach the bathroom which can make for some cold exits from the shower.
• If possible, bring your own small fan, to aid in cooling off the room and for white noise.
• Bring a white noise machine.
• Bring extension cords or long reaching recharging cords. Outlets aren’t always in the most convenient places.
• Bring a flashlight, or know how to work the one on your phone. The paths to the restaurant and village are not lit at night and are dark.
• Just in case, bring any cleaning supplies you think you may need.
• Get a towel from the front desk and use it as an indoor door mat to wipe shoes and to reduce tracking in dirt.
• Keep the cabin free of food, crumbs, and food wrappers, to keep away unwanted critters.
• Keep the cabin door closed at all times.
• Move your bed away from the wall. These are log cabins, reduce the possibility of any bugs or spiders landing close to you if they manage to get in.
• Keep your bathroom door closed to reduce any possible noise from neighbors.
• Bring slippers for possible cold morning floors.
• Bring hair conditioner. Showers come with body soap and shampoo, but not hair conditioner.
• Bring camp chairs, if possible, to sit outside the cabin, as there are no chairs in front of the cabins. (Although, better views are to be had at the marina, swimming beach, and picnic area…).

Last Things to Know

• Check in time: 4:00 pm.
• Check out time: 11:00 am.
• All cabins are non-smoking. A $50 fee will be charged if additional cleaning is required to the bed and comforters after your stay.
• All cabins are pet-friendly. A $50 fee will be charged if additional cleaning is required to the bed and comforters after your stay. Pet Fees & National Park Pet Regulations.
• Review and know Animal Awareness in Grand Teton National Park.
• Parking is available in front of your assigned cabin.
• There are multiple, free, ice machines located in the cabin area of Colter Bay Village.
• Paths from cabins to restaurants can be dark at night, no lights on path, bring flashlight.
• Be careful of heater knobs after heater has been on for awhile, use a wash cloth to turn heater off as they can get hot.

Reservations and Cancellation Policies

The following reservations and cancellation policies information is taken directly from the Grand Teton Lodge Company web site who owns and runs the Colter Bay Cabins.

• Lodging reservations can be made online at www.gtlc.com or by calling the Reservations Team at 307-543-3100.
• At the time of booking, a 1 night deposit is required per room/site plus tax. 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 3 days prior to the scheduled arrival date, the deposit will be refunded less a $15.00 administrative fee per room/site.
• Cancellations or reduction in length of stay received within 3 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.
• Reservation Changes – Date changes or reduction/addition of nights made 3 days prior to your arrival day can be made free of charge, based on availability.  Reductions in stay within 3 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.

Now You Know

Okay kids, if you’ve read here to the bottom, good job, and you can now consider yourself well educated about the Colter Bay Cabins and Colter Bay Village. If you have additional questions, feel free to post them in the comments or contact me directly.

If you have decided to stay at the Colter Bay Cabins, be sure to download the free “Colter Bay Cabins Checklist” (look for sign up on this page). The Checklist contains the tips, to-dos, and suggestions found here in this post, just in a shorter, more concise format you can print and take with you.

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, Explore GTNP