GRAND TETON A visit to Grand Teton shouldn't be rushed-—allow lime to climb mountains, hike, view the incredible wildlife, float the Snake River and thoroughly relax and breathe the crisp air. The mountain that gave the park its name, Grand Teton, is the most impressive of the craggy purple peaks in (his spectacular mountain range. Rising 13,770 ft/4,200 m, the mountain can be seen from most parts of the park, making every drive a scenic drive. But be sure lo take in the park's less dramatic but equally gorgeous views, such as meadows filled with wildflowers and stands of aspen. Begin your visit at the Colter Bay Visitor Center, a focus for ranger-led activities. Open mid May to late September, the center offers a film on park wildlife and Native American culture and houses an impressive collection of Indian art and artifacts. There's a marina and boat launch, and canoes and power boats can be rented for trips on Jackson Lake. There's plenty to see throughout the park. Try to take in as many of the following highlights as you can. Cunningham Cabin—I lomesteader I'ierce Cunningham settled on this site in 1890, and his cabin is still standing. There's a 0.6-mi/l -km trail providing a glimpse of life during the early days, when Jackson Mole was settled. Jackson Hole—Sandwiched between three mountain ranges, Jackson Hole is a lush valley about 50 mi/80 km long (hole means "valley" in trappers' lingo). The valley, the town and the lake were all named after the same mountain man, Davey Jackson. A large portion of Jackson Hole was purchased by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the late 1920s and 1930s, and it eventually became a sizable part of the national park. (The town of Jackson and other parts of Jackson Hole He outside the park boundaries.) Throughout the valley, you'll see moose, mule deer, pronghorn sheep and elk. The area is also a sanctuary for bald eagles, trumpeter swans, black bears, grizzlies and bison. You'll find plenty of opportunities for fishing, white-water rafting and horseback riding in the area. Jackson Lake—More than 16 mi/26 km long, Jackson Lake covers almost 26,000 acres/10,500 hectares. The mountains rise above the western shore, casting a dramatic reflection. It's a good place lor fishing, camping and hiking, and lodging is available, (Don't forget that all of the lakes in both Grand Teton and Yellowstone are extremely cold most of the year: The frigid water can turn a minor boating accident into a life-threatening situation.) Jenny Lake—Glacier-formed Jenny Lake, nestled at the foot of the Tetons, provides opportunities for hiking and fishing. In addition, a nice scenic drive runs along the east side of the lake. The most popular hike in the park is the walk to Hidden Falls. The 2-mi/3-km trail goes around the lake, then up a moderate slope to the falls, inspiration Point, overlooking Jenny Lake and the valley floor, is 0.5 mi/0.8 km beyond the falls (be prepared for some uphill work). This hike is very popular, so expect crowds—big, bad ones. To avoid them, set off as early as you can. Another option is to take the excursion offered by the Teton Boating Company that runs from the visitor center to the falls (or take the boat one direction and hike the other). Boats make the 15-minute trip across the lake all day.