Jackson Hole's Best Family Photo Spots for Little Ones
Planning a family trip to Jackson Hole is an unforgettable experience. The crisp Wyoming air, the towering Teton Range, and the incredible wildlife create a magical backdrop for making memories. As you plan your adventure, consider preserving these precious moments with a professional family photo session. There is no better way to capture your family's laughter and love than amidst the stunning natural beauty of Jackson Hole.
As a dedicated Jackson Hole family photographer, I specialize in crafting beautiful wall portraits that tell your family's unique story. My local expertise allows me to guide you to the perfect spot that not only offers a majestic view of the Tetons but is also accessible and enjoyable for even the littlest members of your family. At TB Photography, my goal is to document the genuine emotion and joy of my subjects, creating amazing images you will treasure for a lifetime.
This guide details some of my favorite spots for a family photography session, focusing on locations that are ideal for families with young children.
Top Photography Locations for Families with Young Kids
The heart of Grand Teton National Park offers a wealth of locations perfect for your family photos. The key is finding a spot that combines breathtaking scenery with ease of access, especially when you have a baby or little kids in tow. Here are some of the best spots that promise a great experience and beautiful family moments.
Schwabacher's Landing
Often simply called Schwabacher Landing, this is one of the most iconic and accessible locations in the entire Jackson Hole area. A smooth, flat dirt path winds along the Snake River, offering crystal-clear reflections of the Teton mountain range in the calm beaver ponds.
For a family session with young children, this spot is perfect. There’s no strenuous hike required; you can step right out of the parking lot and be immersed in nature. The path provides a safe area for kids to explore while we capture both posed family portraits and candid shots of your family's laughter. Early morning light here is particularly soft and beautiful, but the location is stunning at any time of day. We might even spot some bald eagles or other wildlife along the riverbank.
Mormon Row
Home to the most photographed barn in the United States, Mormon Row offers a quintessential Jackson Hole backdrop. The historic Moulton Barn stands proudly with the majestic mountains rising dramatically behind it. This location provides a fantastic sense of scale and a touch of rustic history to your family pictures.
The area is flat and open, giving children plenty of room to run and play without wandering too far. It’s an excellent choice for capturing the adventurous spirit of your amazing kids against a classic western landscape. The expansive fields are beautiful any time of year, from the green grasses of summer to the golden hues of autumn.
Taggart Lake Trailhead & String Lake
For families who enjoy a bit of a walk, the area around Taggart Lake Trailhead offers incredible scenery without a difficult trek. The beginning of the trail provides a stunning view of the Grand Tetons and is easily reachable from the parking lot. We don’t need to complete the leisurely hike to get amazing images; the surrounding aspen groves and open meadows are perfect.
Nearby, String Lake is another fantastic option. The water is shallow and calm, making it a safe and fun environment for children. A short walk along the shoreline leads to numerous little coves and beaches, each offering a unique and beautiful spot for photos. Its proximity to Leigh Lake also provides options for extending our session if time allows.
Iconic Vistas for Your Family Portraits
While accessibility is key for young children, some of Jackson’s most famous vistas are surprisingly easy to reach and provide the "wow" factor you want for your portraits.
Snake River Overlook
Made famous by the legendary photographer Ansel Adams, Snake River Overlook provides a sweeping, panoramic view of the Snake River as it curves through the valley with the Teton Range in the background. This location is directly accessible from a parking lot, requiring no hiking whatsoever.
It's a perfect spot for a grand, scenic portrait that captures the vastness of the great outdoors. The elevated viewpoint ensures the majestic mountains are the undeniable centerpiece of your family photos. Planning a session here during the golden hour can result in truly breathtaking images.
Oxbow Bend
Another of Ansel Adams' favorite spots, Oxbow Bend is renowned for its tranquil waters that reflect Mount Moran. It is one of the most reliable places to capture a stunning reflection of the Tetons. The pull-off is right off the main road, making it an effortless stop.
This beautiful spot is particularly magical at sunrise when the water is calmest and the light illuminates the peaks. It’s a peaceful setting ideal for capturing serene and beautiful family moments. Depending on the time of year, you might also see wildlife like moose, elk, or grizzly bears (from a safe distance, of course!). Other scenic pull-offs like Glacier View Turnout also offer easy-to-access, stunning views.
Jenny Lake & Cascade Canyon
No trip to Grand Teton National Park is complete without visiting the iconic Jenny Lake. While the full loop can be long for little legs, the shoreline near the visitor center offers spectacular scenery. A short, scenic boat ride across the lake is a fun adventure for kids and takes you to the trailhead for Cascade Canyon.
From there, a short hike leads to the stunning Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. While Inspiration Point may be a bigger challenge for toddlers, the area around the falls provides a lush, dramatic setting for a photo shoot that feels like a true mountain adventure.
Beyond the Park: Teton Village
For families staying in Teton Village, you don’t have to go far for incredible photo opportunities. The base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers a beautiful mountain backdrop, and the village itself has charming spots perfect for a more casual family session. This is an especially convenient option if you are planning shorter mini sessions. Winter sessions here are particularly magical, with snow-covered chalets and the festive alpine atmosphere.
Why Choose a Professional Jackson Hole Photographer?
Navigating Grand Teton National Park to find the best light and locations can be overwhelming. As an experienced local family photographer, I handle all the logistics for you. I know the best time of year for each spot, how to avoid crowds, and where to find those hidden gems that will make your family pictures truly unique.
My focus is always on creating a relaxed and fun experience for your family. A photo session shouldn't feel like a chore; it should be an enjoyable part of your vacation. By guiding you every step of the way, I help create an environment where your family's genuine connection shines through, resulting in amazing images that are both beautiful and authentic.
Let's Capture Your Jackson Hole Story
Your family deserves more than just snapshots. Let’s work together to create beautiful wall portraits and timeless heirlooms that celebrate your love against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Whether you're a family of three or planning a multi-generational reunion, I offer a range of family session options to fit your needs.
Ready to book an unforgettable family photography session? Visit my website at www.tbphotographyjh.com to view my portfolio and inquire about your date.