Schwabacher Landing is one of the most popular photo locations in Grand Teton National Park. It offers a river level view of the valley with the Grand as a backdrop. The somewhat rough road drops off Highway 89 a few miles north of the Park’s Visitor’s Center and takes visitors to two parking areas. The north parking area is the largest and has a rest room. The Park Service closes the road after about six snow flakes hits the valley floor now and does not open the gates until essentially all of the snow has melted off the road. When elk hunting was allowed in the river bottom, the road stayed open until the end of hunting season in December for the hunters. After April 1st, river bottom closures are lifted, so it is possible to do a mile and a half hike down to the area.
Mornings are usually best at Schwabacher Landing. Sun rises over the eastern mountains, then bathes the clouds and peaks with beautiful gold light. The area is also a popular sunset location, but I always found it to be less reliable. Moose, deer, elk, wolves, and bears pass through the area, with moose being the more likely subjects. You might also see herons, geese, several species of ducks, beavers, river otter, pine martens, squirrels and various small birds. Eagles, osprey, and owls also hunt in the area.
It’s easy to understand why Schwabacher Landing is so popular!
