Trip Report 5/25/26
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Memorial Day dash in Grand Teton was well rewarded with familiar but world class views. In a constant effort to run new mileage and explore new places I set out to do a loop combining part of the Signal Mountain road with the full South Landing Trail.
This short 4.5 mile loop was scenic, shady and picturesque along Jackson Lake which appears to be nearly full at the time of writing this. The trail snakes through picnic areas and goes right through the South Landing Campsite. Upon completion of the loop I opted to go the extra distance down an unknown(to myself) track. The name of the road is R.K.O and it takes you east toward the Snake River.
The name comes directly from RKO Pictures (Radio-Keith-Orpheum) which was a classic Hollywood Studio company. The company used the road heavily during the 1950's while shooting the western movie "The Big Sky" featuring Kirk Douglas. Running it today, it’s a quiet, scenic bluff, but 70 years ago it was a bustling studio set.
This road, often misunderstood as a 4x4 access road is gated and closed at both ends. The two track remains from official park service use, but some of River Road overlook sections have faded away into the sage brush with time. I chose turn around on one of the bluffs overlooking the Snake River.
My return route was a simple back track across the River and R.K.O roads. The flat miles are are enjoyable, but the temperature was climbing and this stretch offers no shade for miles. Perhaps this stretch of my route is best avoided on a hot day.
🗺️ Line of Travel:
South Landing Trailhead ➔ Teton Park Road ➔ Signal Mountain Road ➔ South Landing Trail ➔ R.K.O Road ➔ River Road ➔ Back Track the route to the Trailhead.
📍Beta:
These trails and roads could be run from a number of trailheads including South Landing, Signal Mountain Road, Signal Mountain Lodge. Access to Grant Teton National Park Requires a pass.
📊 Route Stats:
- Distance: 10.51 miles
- Elevation Gain: 651 feet
- Moving Time: 1:30:56
- Pace: 8:39/mile
👟 Gear List:
- Shoes: Dynafit Ultra Pro 2
- Pack: Dynafit Ultra 12 Vest
Snake River Bottom, Mt. Moran.
Member discussion: