See Oxbow Bend – One of Grand Teton’s Famous Four Sights
Oxbow Bend is one of the most iconic views in Grand Teton National Park and as a bonus, it is easy to get to!
At Oxbow Bend, you see Mt. Moran straight on with the Snake River in the foreground appearing to be meandering to (or from) the Tetons. It’s easy to see why this is a Famous Four spot and an iconic photo for Grand Teton National Park.
Grand Teton’s Famous Four Sights
There are four spots in Grand Teton National Park that are the most photographed and therefore the most famous in GTNP.
These Famous Four Sights are most likely the ones you have seen in pictures, posters, calendars, and may be among the reasons you came to GTNP.
The Famous Four Sights are:
Oxbow Bend – A Different Focus
If you’ve been traveling north from Jackson, the Teton views have mostly focused on the Grand Teton and its buddies.
At Oxbow Bend – it’s all about Mt. Moran.
Oxbow Bend at sunrise
And as you may have noticed Mt. Moran becomes more and more impressive and less “squatty” as you head north. (Just wait until you get to Colter Bay, and Leek’s Marina – Mt. Moran is majestic).
Oxbow Bend – Quick and Easy
Of the Famous Four Sights, Oxbow Bend is the quickest and easiest to get to and out of, with most people spending about 15 minutes here. Even less if you are just here to see the view and not take pictures.
Oxbow Bend Turnout
Getting Here
From South HWY 191/89/26 go through Moran Junction (show your park pass or purchase a pass) and head 3.1 miles, you’ll see the sign for Oxbow Bend on your left.
From South Teton Park Road, turn right at Jackson Lake Junction and drive about a mile, Oxbow Bend will be on your right.
From North HWY 287/191/89 drive past Jackson Lake Junction, Oxbow Bend will be on your right.
Oxbow Bend Map
Know Before You Go
- The parking lot is small
- If the parking lot is full, you may have to park along the road, be careful of cars, as they are most likely looking at the view or if an animal is nearby
- This place can get busy and jam up if moose are spotted
- There are often a variety of bird wildlife on the water
- If traveling before sunrise or after sunset, please observe the speed limit as animals are active here
- Definitely, need bug spray – many mosquitoes here
- If you aren’t in a hurry, you can stay here longer and wait and see if wildlife appear
- You can get to Oxbow Bend year round – even in winter
- No restrooms
- Jackson Lake Lodge and Signal Mountain Lodge are close by for restrooms
Grand Teton National Park’s Famous Four Sights in ONE Day Guide
To make the most of your time here and at the other three Famous Four sights in GTNP, check out our Grand Teton National Park’s Famous Four Sights in ONE Day Guide.
The guide will show you how to see all four sights in less than one day, with tips on how to get to them, where to go first, what to see first, and extra tips on how to get your own amazing picture of each sight.
In addition to the One Day Guide, you also get the “Additional Animal Spots” guide that details places to go along the Famous Four Tour to try your luck at seeing more animals. Also included is our After the Tour “Restaurant Recommendations” and “Sample One Day Itineraries” for ideas on how to see the Famous Four and what to activities to do after.
Grand Teton National Park’s Famous Four Sights in ONE Day Guide
Keep Your Eye Peeled for a Moose!
Jenn Cunningham
Founder, Explore GTNP
Hi, I'm Jenn, pictured here on Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park. I am a Wyoming native and have vacationed every year of my 40+ years in Grand Teton National Park. I know this park inside and out, so use my years of experience and knowledge to plan, go, and do your perfect Grand Teton National Park vacation!