Grand Teton National Park and its surrounding areas are full of breathtaking mountains, lakes, and wildlife. But tucked among the scenery are two small chapels that offer a quieter kind of beauty. The Chapel of the Transfiguration and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart are both historic wooden churches that welcome visitors of all backgrounds. They are simple yet striking, each with its own setting and story. For many travelers, these chapels are as memorable as the mountains themselves.
Chapel of the Transfiguration
The Chapel of the Transfiguration is one of the most photographed churches in the American West. Located in Moose, Wyoming, at the southern entrance of Grand Teton National Park, it has a postcard-perfect backdrop of the Teton Range.
History
Built in 1925, the chapel was designed as a place for local ranchers and visitors to worship without having to travel to Jackson. Its log-cabin style reflects the rustic architecture of the region. The Episcopal Church still owns and maintains it, and services are held during the summer months.
What to See
The chapel is small, with pews for only about 65 people. The highlight is the large window behind the altar, which frames the Teton Range like a painting. On a clear day, the jagged peaks rise above the altar in a way that makes you stop and take a breath. The simplicity of the interior—wooden pews, log walls, and a few rustic details—keeps all the focus on the view.
Visiting
The chapel is open daily in summer, and visitors are welcome to step inside, sit quietly, or take photos. Weddings and special events are sometimes held here, and because of the views, it is a popular choice. Even if you are not religious, it is worth a visit for the setting alone.
Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Located near the southern end of Jackson Lake, about 20 miles north of Moose, the Chapel of the Sacred Heart is another gem. This Catholic chapel has a different feel from the Chapel of the Transfiguration, but it is equally charming.
History
The Chapel of the Sacred Heart was built in 1937 by local Catholic families and Jesuit priests. Like its Episcopal counterpart, it reflects the rustic log style of the region. It was later transferred to the Diocese of Cheyenne and remains an active place of worship during the summer season.
What to See
The chapel sits near Signal Mountain Lodge, surrounded by tall pine trees with glimpses of Jackson Lake. Inside, it is simple but warm, with wooden pews, log walls, and small stained-glass windows. The atmosphere feels intimate, more about peace and reflection than grandeur.
Visiting
The chapel is open in summer, and mass is often celebrated on weekends. Because it is located within Grand Teton National Park, it is easy to combine with a day of hiking, boating, or scenic drives.
Comparing the Two Chapels
- Location: The Chapel of the Transfiguration sits at the edge of an open meadow with dramatic mountain views, while the Chapel of the Sacred Heart is tucked in the forest near a lake.
- Denomination: The Transfiguration is Episcopal, while the Sacred Heart is Catholic. Both welcome visitors of any faith.
- Atmosphere: The Transfiguration feels dramatic because of the mountain view through its window. The Sacred Heart feels cozy and hidden, surrounded by trees.
- Use: Both chapels are active in summer with services, weddings, and special events.
Many visitors choose to see both, since they are within a short drive of each other and offer different perspectives on the region’s history and spirituality.
Things to Do Nearby
Near the Chapel of the Transfiguration
- Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center: Just down the road in Moose, this center offers exhibits, maps, and ranger programs.
- Moose-Wilson Road: A scenic drive known for wildlife such as moose, bears, and birds.
- Snake River Overlook: A classic viewpoint made famous by Ansel Adams’ photographs.
Near the Chapel of the Sacred Heart
- Jackson Lake: Boating, kayaking, and fishing opportunities.
- Signal Mountain Summit Road: A short drive with panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley.
- Colter Bay Village: Visitor services, a marina, and access to hiking trails.
Practical Tips
- Best time to visit: Summer (May through September) when the chapels are open and services are held. In winter, they are usually closed due to snow and limited access.
- Photography: The Chapel of the Transfiguration is especially photogenic in early morning or late afternoon light, when the Teton peaks glow. The Sacred Heart is best captured with its forest surroundings.
- Respect the space: Both chapels are active places of worship. Be quiet inside, and avoid interrupting services or weddings unless you are attending.
- Combine with other stops: Since both are inside Grand Teton National Park, it is easy to fit them into a day of sightseeing.
Why Visit These Chapels
What makes the Chapel of the Transfiguration and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart special is not just their architecture, but their settings. They connect human history with the grandeur of the Tetons. In a landscape that overwhelms with its scale, these chapels offer small, peaceful spaces where you can pause and take it all in.
For travelers, they provide both a photo opportunity and a chance for reflection. They remind you that beyond the mountains and wildlife, the Tetons are also home to communities that have lived, worked, and worshipped here for generations.
Final Thoughts
The Chapel of the Transfiguration and the Chapel of the Sacred Heart may be small, but they carry a big presence. One frames the Teton peaks in a window behind its altar, while the other nestles quietly in the pines by Jackson Lake. Together, they add a human and spiritual touch to the grandeur of Grand Teton National Park.
If you are visiting the Tetons, make time for both chapels. They are reminders that beauty comes not just from nature, but also from the simple places where people gather, reflect, and find meaning in the landscape around them.
