Length: Minimal
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Route Type: Out and Back
Difficulty: Easy
The T.A. Moulton Barn, in Grand Teton National Park, is one of the most photographed barns in the U.S. due to its iconic location with the Grand Tetons as a backdrop. According to the National Park Service, Thomas Alva (T.A.) Moulton moved to Mormon Row in 1908 and this barn is what remains from his homestead.
Accessing the T.A. Moulton Barn in Grand Teton National Park
Starting Location: Mormon Row South Parking Lot, Antelope Flats Rd, Moose, WY
GPS (DD): 43.66066, -110.66435
The T.A. Moulton Barn can be accessed by traveling about 15 miles north of Jackson, Wyoming on Highway 89, turning right on Antelope Flats Rd, and then turning right on Gros Ventre Rd, also known as Mormon Row. It’s an easy location to get to with a car. Please note that Antelope Flats Rd is closed from November until May.
There is a parking area just before arriving at the T.A. Moulton barn. Just north of Antelope Flats Rd, you will find the John Moulton barn that can be photographed similarly to the T.A. Moulton barn.
Best Time of Day to Photograph the T.A. Moulton Barn
Sunrise is the best time of day to shoot this location. The sun rises behind the photographer and casts soft light on the mountains and the barn. Sunset can also work, but the sun will set behind the mountains, which can wash out some details of the mountains.
This location is open all day, so photographing the night sky is also possible here. The iconic view isn’t favorable for Milky Way shots because of the orientation, but facing to the south could capture the Milky Way core, just without the iconic mountains in the background. Star trails could be beautiful at this location as well.
Best Seasons to Photograph the T.A. Moulton Barn
Each season will offer slight differences in photographing the T.A. Moulton Barn. In my opinion, the best season is spring when there is still snow on the mountains. As spring progresses to summer and fall, there will be less snow on the mountains, but it will still be beautiful. Because of the heavy amount of snowfall this area receives in the winter, the Antelope Flats Rd is closed in winter, which would make this location difficult to access.
Sometimes clouds or fog form at the base of the mountains, which can add a lot of interest to the photograph and help differentiate your photo from others at this same spot.
Photography Tips for the T.A. Moulton Barn
The best advice for this location is to arrive early. It is very popular with photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset. Arriving about 1-2 hours before sunrise or sunset provides plenty of time to explore compositions and give you the freedom to choose your spot before lots of people arrive. Please be patient and respectful of other photographers because this location will most likely be crowded.
Because of the location of the barn and the mountains, as well as how often this barn has been photographed, it’s difficult to get an original composition here. Sometimes bison may be around the barn that could be used, but use caution since they are wild animals and can become aggressive. There are a few groves of trees that can be used to help with the composition as well as logs and sometimes puddles after a rainstorm.
Closing Remarks
The T.A. Moulton Barn is one of the most popular barns for photography in the U.S. and it’s easy to see why! The barn is in great shape and the majestic Grand Tetons in the background provide a beautiful backdrop. As the sun rises, it casts beautiful soft light on the mountains and barn making for a beautiful scene.
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you go in Grand Teton National Park, be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Grand Teton National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. I hope you enjoy your time visiting the T.A. Moulton Barn!
Happy shooting!
Tom Wagner, Featured National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about Grand Teton National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Grand Teton National Park Map (National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map)
- Frommer’s Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks (Complete Guide)
- Lonely Planet Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide)
- Best Easy Day Hikes Grand Teton National Park
- Grand Teton National Park (Images of America)
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