Grand Teton (13,775')
The Grand Teton is not only the highest peak in the Teton Range but also the high point of climbing activity. From any approach to the range, the Grand Teton towers above the lesser peaks and beckons the climber almost irresistibly. In more than 100 years of climbing on "The Grand" routes to its summit have been found that will satisfy anyone's taste. From the Owen-Spalding route to the Direct North Face almost all degrees of difficulty can be found. All routes, however, require knowledge of the use of a rope and correct belay techniques to be negotiated safely.
It is not uncommon for parties to take 14 hours or more to make the round trip from the Lower Saddle to the summit and back. The Owen-Spalding and Upper Exum Ridge are often incorrectly described as "hikes." Soloists have been injured or killed attempting these routes.
Large climbing parties are NOT recommended on the Grand Teton. The Owen-Spalding, Exum Ridge, and Petzoldt Ridge are extremely popular technical alpine rock routes. Groups larger than 2 can cause unnecessary and dangerous delays for all parties on these routes.
Climbers should not attempt a one-day ascent of the Grand Teton without prior experience and familiarity with technical ascents in the Teton Range. This is a LARGE mountain that rises 7,000 vertical feet off of the valley floor!
Large climbing parties are NOT recommended on the Grand Teton. The Owen-Spalding, Exum Ridge, and Petzoldt Ridge are extremely popular technical alpine rock routes. Groups larger than 2 can cause unnecessary and dangerous delays for all parties on these routes.
Climbers should not attempt a one-day ascent of the Grand Teton without prior experience and familiarity with technical ascents in the Teton Range. This is a LARGE mountain that rises 7,000 vertical feet off of the valley floor!
There are no straightforward routes in the Tetons- everything requires good route finding skills!
