The 3 Closest Airports to the tetons

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The 3 Closest Airports to the Tetons

Planning a trip to the stunning Teton Range, including Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding Jackson Hole area? Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel time and budget. While several airports serve the region, three stand out due to their relative proximity and practicality for visitors.

1. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)

Jackson Hole Airport holds the unique distinction of being the only commercial airport located entirely within a U.S. National Park (Grand Teton National Park). Its location offers unparalleled convenience and breathtaking views upon arrival and departure.

  • Distance to the Tetons: Located within Grand Teton National Park. Approx. 10 miles (15-20 min drive) to the town of Jackson, and ~20 miles (30-40 min drive) to popular spots like Jenny Lake.

  • Address: 1250 E Airport Rd, Jackson, WY 83001

  • Pros: Unbeatable proximity, incredibly scenic, located inside the National Park. Cons: Often the most expensive flight option, fewer flight choices (especially seasonally), potential for weather delays/closures in winter. Airlines: Served seasonally or year-round by major carriers like Delta, United, American, and Alaska Airlines. Car Rental: Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, National/Alamo, Budget available on-site.

  • Official Website: https://www.jacksonholeairport.com/

  • Phone: (307) 733-7682

  • Rating: Typically rated highly (e.g., 4.5+/5 on Google) for its location and facility.

2. Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)

Located west of the Tetons in Idaho, Idaho Falls Regional Airport is a smaller, often more budget-friendly alternative to Jackson Hole. It requires a scenic drive over Teton Pass or a longer route around the mountains.

  • Distance to the Tetons: Approx. 90 miles (around 2 hours drive) to the town of Jackson, WY.

  • Address: 2140 N Skyline Dr, Idaho Falls, ID 83402

  • Pros: Generally less expensive flights compared to JAC, relatively easy drive (though requires mountain pass). Cons: Requires a 2-hour drive, fewer flight options than major hubs, smaller airport amenities. Airlines: Served by carriers like Delta, United, Alaska, and Allegiant Air. Car Rental: Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, National/Alamo available on-site.

  • Official Website: https://www.ifairport.com/

  • Phone: (208) 612-8221

  • Rating: Generally well-rated (e.g., 4.0+/5 on Google) as a regional airport.

3. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

As the closest major international airport, Salt Lake City offers the widest variety of flight options and often the most competitive pricing. However, it comes with the trade-off of a significantly longer drive to the Tetons.

  • Distance to the Tetons: Approx. 300 miles (around 4.5 – 5.5 hours drive) to the town of Jackson, WY.

  • Address: 776 N Terminal Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84122

  • Pros: Largest selection of domestic and international flights, typically the lowest fares, extensive car rental options, modern airport facilities. Cons: Requires a long drive (5+ hours), drive involves distance and potentially mountain passes depending on the route chosen, can add significant travel time. Airlines: Hub for Delta; served by all major US carriers (Southwest, American, United, Alaska, JetBlue, Frontier, etc.) and several international airlines. Car Rental: All major rental car companies are available at the consolidated rental facility.

  • Official Website: https://slcairport.com/

  • Phone: (801) 575-2400

  • Rating: Generally highly rated (e.g., 4.0+/5 on Google) for a major hub, especially the new terminals.

Conclusion

The closest airport to the Tetons is undeniably Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), located right inside Grand Teton National Park. For travelers prioritizing convenience and minimizing drive time, JAC is the best choice, albeit often at a higher cost.

The closest major airport with the most flight options and generally lower fares is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). However, visitors choosing SLC must factor in the lengthy (5+ hour) drive to reach the Jackson Hole area. Idaho Falls (IDA) offers a middle ground, often cheaper than JAC but requiring a manageable 2-hour drive. Your choice will depend on balancing budget, flight availability, and tolerance for driving time.

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