Mammals come to streams to drink and take advantage of the nearby abundant vegetation that offers food and cover. Moose browse in the willow thickets. River dwelling beavers feed on the willows and burrow into the banks. River otters feed mostly on fish and use riverbank burrows or old beaver lodges. Coyotes, bison, and mule deer also come to rivers and streams for water and shelter.
Sagebrush grows on dry, porous soils.
Much of the valley floor is covered with sagebrush. More than 100 species of native grasses and wildflowers also grow in this dry soil. Bitterbrush, sticky geranium, groundsel, pussytoes, larkspur, buckwheat, stonecrop, balsamroot, Indian Paintbrush, harebells, and gilia are some of the plants found in this area. Hiking Trails Grand Teton National Park is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also for the hiking trails. Most of the trails are very accessible, vary in length, and have a variety of difficulty levels ranging from an easy walk to a technical climb.