Willow Flats Overlook

Willow Flats Overlook is a viewpoint in Grand Teton National Park offering views of Jackson Lake, the Teton mountain range, and expansive meadows below. The area is defined by dense willow shrubs that cover the valley floor and create a natural structure for the ecosystem beneath.

The viewpoint was created by the movement of the Teton fault, where the mountains continuously drifted upward while the valley below gradually sank over time. This geological activity shaped the current landscape with its lakes and peaks over millions of years.

This viewpoint serves as a gathering spot where visitors come together to watch wildlife and photograph the landscape. People spend time here to observe deer, elk, and birds moving through their natural surroundings.

The viewpoint features pathways that are accessible for wheelchair users and has informative signs explaining the visible natural features. Visitors should arrive in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active.

During morning and evening hours, numerous animal species emerge from the willow thickets to feed in the meadows below, providing excellent viewing opportunities. These times offer the best chances to spot elk and other large mammals that remain hidden during daylight hours.