Teton Canyon rises up from Teton Valley in Eastern Idaho, meandering into the Caribou-Targhee National Forest on the Wyoming side of the border. Teton Creek, with its source in the mountains, flows down the canyon and along several of its beautiful trails. The trailhead at the end of the canyon is a jumping off place for several spectacular hikes. For those willing to undertake a 10 hour hike with over 4,000 feet of elevation gain, the two trails leading to Table Mountain are particularly rewarding, given the close-up view of the Grand one experiences from the top. As one heads up the canyon, the Grand Targhee ski resort looms above to the left, and the tip of the Grand frames the scene ahead like a sculpture above Table Mountain. Table Mountain resembles a giant birthday cake often frosted in white. In addition to the magnificent Teton range in the distance, the canyon is flanked by some of the most unusual geological formations imaginable. Many of these formed over millions of years as an ancient ocean applied layers of silt and marine life. This ocean once covered much of the Rocky Mountain area, repeatedly receding and returning.
Most of the photos in this gallery were taken from locations along the trails that run the length of Teton Canyon. Several were taken from below in Alta, with its panoramic view of the canyon and surrounding mountains. Every season offers spectacular subjects for photographers, with the colors, shapes and textures making this a very inspiring place. Starting in late May, the canyon is ablaze with colorful wildflowers. Then, in the Fall, the canyon and its surrounding hills are a riot of color as the aspen groves resemble golden impressionist paintings. In the winter, it's a cross country skier's dream track with deep snow providing stark contrast against the trees and rock.
