Cell Phone Coverage in Grand Teton National Park

Cell phone coverage in Grand Teton National Park is not always guaranteed in more remote areas because of the mountains, though in the historic areas there are cell phone tours available. Some experienced wilderness adventurers debate over the use of cell phones within the park, though are definitely some pros and cons.

Despite the raging debate between naturalists and those loving technology, cell phone use in Grand Teton National Park has its ups and downs, benefits and disadvantages. However, in some areas of the park there is cell phone coverage, though this is limited mainly to the historic areas as many remote sections, especially in the mountainous areas may not get signals at all.

The main coverage area for the Grand Teton National Park is within the Menors Ferry Historic District where coverage is designed to provide free cell phone tours of the area. However, in the wilderness areas, though there are towers around, the reception is intermittent and best. Also, the issue of common sense and safety versus convenience can be a problem for some people who insist on bringing their cell phones for camping or lengthy trips into the remote sections of the park.

The main recommendations for cell phone use within the park are to have it as a backup, but never as the main source of safety. Ultimately cell phone coverage may allow those in trouble to access emergency services, but it does not protect the user from the elements or help them survive. In fact, park rescue personnel recommend only using a cell phone if there is absolutely no choice as their team only numbers sixteen people and emergency helicopters, hikers, horses, water experts and dog teams are also limited. Most importantly it is best to find out where the main towers are and the coverage hotspots are located to assure that calls can get through in emergencies, but most especially to keep a copy of the park emergency rescue team as dialling 911 only accesses the local Highway Patrol, which may take longer to get help when needed. In the end, the choice of taking a cell phone, the coverage areas and the purpose behind the need for a cell phone should be assessed before taking one into the park.