What Is the Origin of the Name Grand Tetons?

The Grand Tetons are considered some of the most beautiful peaks by many. The peaks are in excess of 13,000 feet tall. The three tallest peaks are the Grand, the Middle and the South Tetons.

Location

The Grand Tetons are a mountain range of the Rocky Mountains. Most of them are in the Grand Teton National Park in western Wyoming.

Native American Names

Native Americans of the region had various names for the mountains now called the Grand Tetons, specifically the three highest peaks. Names included "The Three Brothers," "The Hoaryheaded Fathers" and "tee Win-at," which means "The Pinnacles."

Les Trois Tetons

Seeing the curves of the three tallest peaks of the mountain range, French fur trappers called them "Les Trois Tetons," which means "The Three Breasts." Over time, other trappers adopted the name.

First Publication of the Name

Eventually, cartographers officially recognized the name "Grand Tetons." The Bonneville Map of 1837 first published the name.

Historical Significance

The Grand Teton mountain range had great importance in the settlement of the western United States. Pioneers, on their trek west, looked for the familiar landmark.

References

• National Park Service
• Grand Teton National Park