The park encompasses nearly
310,000 acres and protects the Teton Range, Jackson Hole (mountain
valley), a 50-mile portion of the Snake River, seven morainal lakes, over
100 backcountry and alpine lakes, and a wide range of wildlife and plant
species.
The park is also rich in a cultural
history that includes seven eras of human history: early peoples (Paleo-Indians),
Native Americans (modern tribes), fur trappers, homesteaders,
ranchers/farmers, conservationists, and recreationalists. Climbing, hiking
and backpacking, camping, fishing, wildlife and bird watching, horseback
riding, boating on Jackson and Jenny Lakes, rafting on the Snake River,
bicycling, and photography are all common activities in the area.