Mount Wister

Mount Wister is a summit in Grand Teton National Park that rises to about 11,500 feet with steep rocky slopes stretching from Avalanche Canyon to its granite peak. The mountain is marked by several distinctive rock formations and demands climbers with experience and good endurance.

The mountain was first documented climbed by Phil Smith in 1928, establishing early routes through challenging terrain. This first ascent marked the beginning of the peak's exploration for mountaineers.

The mountain carries the name of Owen Wister, an American writer who explored and documented the Wyoming landscapes during the late 1800s.

Climbers reach Mount Wister via the Taggart Lake Trailhead near the park entrance. A permit from the Jenny Lake Ranger Station is necessary if you plan to camp overnight in Avalanche Canyon.

The peak creates a distinctive silhouette with its neighboring summits that looks particularly striking during sunrise and sunset. Many visitors overlook this summit because it is less well known than the more prominent peaks in the park.

Location: Wyoming

GPS coordinates: 43.70196,-110.81724

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:46