There’s something incredibly dramatic about the Grand Tetons, their jagged peaks defying sky & land. Appearing as if they sprung from the water, these mountains lack the typical foothills that add considerable height to the rest of the Rocky Mountains. I think I’ve been behind the 8-ball, as my mother would say, when it comes to knowing the mountain ranges of the West. Of course, like other people, I’m aware of Ansel Adams & his spectacular photographic images in black & white that depict these peaks. Yet, little did I comprehend the magnitude of these mountains’ majesty–at least, not until I gazed upon them in person. I mean, how could I? There are just some things you have to see, to witness, in person in order to feel their magnitude.
I mean, I knew Emerson & Thoreau chastised those who relied only on art to see nature, that nothing can compare to the real thing experienced directly.
Jackson Lake Lodge marked the first leg of this tremendous journey of two major national parks–Grand Teton & Yellowstone. It’s been a banner year for my inner child, I must say–getting to go to Disney World for the first time, & just visiting two national parks I’ve dreamt of exploring ever since first viewing their grandeur in Viewmaster discs in my grade school years. I feel like I have to pinch myself all the time, ever since moving to Utah. It feels weird to me that I’ve been able to accomplish so many of my dreams & wishes thus far in my life. I’ve been so incredibly blessed, beyond what I feel I deserve. It’s as if the things I wished for most have manifested–not all, mind you, but enough to make me feel incredibly fortunate.
From what I learned from visitor centers & an informational video, the Tetons are the youngest part of the Rocky Mountain Range. Its location near tectonic plates created the impressive jagged peaks easily recognized, engendering drama to the scenery. The Rockefeller family were the ones to protect this land by giving it to the nation, preserving the beauty for generations. The most grateful are likely the the large numbers of wildlife who thrive, like the elk & mule deer visitors get to see there. The elk create quite a chorus at dusk & daybreak.
The views from my room at Jackson Lake Lodge were nothing short of stunning, constantly changing with sunlight & clouds & the time of day. The stuff of Bierstadt paintings. Movies with gorgeous cinematography like The Horse Whisperer & Open Range & A River Runs through It enticed me to the Western landscape, & the movies didn’t lie. Those snow-capped mountaintops dazzle in person.
There’s so much to write about even for just this part of the journey to the Tetons & Yellowstone, & there are countless pictures I took, trying to capture every moment. So many pictures. Ridiculous numbers. Yet, the reality is that I will only be able to touch upon trip’s highlights, & anything I write or share in pictures will never truly convey the experience. These mountains need to be seen in person. And at this time of year, crowds were fewer even though foliage started to change colors & the air presented a crisp freshness. For this introvert, the Tetons stood out with the most spectacular scenery, awing the viewer into submission & creating a feeling of insignificance.
Such beauty changes you, deep in the core. I’ll never be the same.
