Introduction to Grand Teton Hiking
Why Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park Are Unmissable
Nestled in northwest Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park boasts an unparalleled mix of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, making its trails a must for any hiking enthusiast. Each path—from the gentle shores of Jenny Lake to the rugged ascent of Cascade Canyon—offers dramatic views of the Teton Range’s granite spires, dropping over 7,000 ft to the valley floor . Many trails traverse historically significant terrain once used by Native American tribes and early explorers, adding a rich cultural layer to the natural spectacle . Whether you seek a family-friendly stroll or a heart-pounding climb, these routes rank among the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park, promising unforgettable vistas and memories.
Expert-guided backcountry trips and self-led day hikes alike share one common thread: access to wildlife encounters seldom found elsewhere. Elk and moose graze in sage flats, marmots whistle from talus fields, and bald eagles circle overhead—wildlife viewing that enriches every trek . Photographers and nature lovers flock here to capture sunrise alpenglow on the Grand Teton summit, a phenomenon that transforms the mountains into a living photograph. These experiences, combined with transparent trail maintenance and visitor education programs by the National Park Service, solidify GTNP’s reputation for world-class hiking .
How Grand Teton Elevation Shapes Weather & Trail Conditions
Elevation in Grand Teton National Park spans from about 6,300 ft at Jackson Lake to over 13,770 ft atop the Grand Teton summit . This dramatic vertical relief creates distinct climate zones: valley floors are warm and dry in summer, while alpine areas remain cool—even snowy—well into June . Hikers must prepare for rapid weather changes; a sunny morning at Taggart Lake Trailhead can transition to afternoon storms in Cascade Canyon, where thunderstorms frequently develop by early afternoon.
Trail conditions vary widely with elevation. Lower-elevation loops like Phelps Lake are often snow-free by late May, offering wildflower displays in June. In contrast, high routes such as Amphitheater Lake frequently retain deep snowdrifts until July, requiring microspikes or even ice axes for safe travel . Always consult the NPS Grand Teton Trail Status for up-to-date conditions, and carry layers to adjust your insulation as you climb or descend.
Planning Your Grand Teton Hiking Trip
Where to Stay: Jackson Hole, Teton Village & Closest Airports
Most visitors base themselves in the town of Jackson Hole, a 20-minute drive from GTNP’s south entrance. Jackson offers a range of accommodations—from rustic lodges to luxury resorts—plus dining, gear shops, and shuttle connections to trailheads like Death Canyon and Taggart Lake. Staying here keeps you close to both park access and the vibrant Western-style downtown, where evening ranger talks and gear rentals kickstart your next day’s adventure.
Just north of the park, Teton Village provides ski-resort amenities year-round, with convenient lift access to alpine trails during summer months. The Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), located within the park boundary, offers direct flights from major hubs like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Chicago, minimizing travel time to trailheads on the park’s north side . Renting a car at JAC lets you navigate the loop road efficiently, linking key trailheads such as Taggart Lake, Jenny Lake, and Granite Canyon.
For budget-conscious travelers, lodges and campgrounds within GTNP—like Gros Ventre and Jenny Lake—provide immersive backcountry vibes. Reservations fill quickly during peak summer months; secure sites up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov. Whichever base you choose, pairing lodging with strategically timed hikes—early starts for high-elevation routes and afternoon relaxations at String Lake—maximizes enjoyment and safety in the dynamic Grand Teton National Park environment.
Top 12 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
1. Jenny Lake Trail
Introduction
The Jenny Lake Trail is the quintessential Grand Teton loop—framing crystalline waters against the towering Cathedral Group peaks. Starting at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, you skirt the lake’s edge through aromatic lodgepole pines and under the shadow of Cascade Canyon’s granite walls. Each step offers postcard views of Hidden Falls spilling into the lake, and wildlife sightings—moose grazing at dawn, marmots sunning on rocks—are common. Interpretive signs along the path recount the valley’s glacial heritage, enhancing your connection to the landscape. Despite its popularity, Jenny Lake’s 7-mile circuit feels surprisingly wild once you round Inspiration Point and look back on the shimmering basin. For many, this is one of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park to acclimate before tackling higher routes.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 7.1 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 700 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit: None (7-day park pass required)
Best Time to Visit
June–September: Ice-free shoreline, peak wildflowers in July, and stable summer weather make this loop ideal.
Insider Tips & Safety Precautions
- Early Start: Begin by 8 AM to avoid midday boat-tour crowds and secure parking.
- Boat Shuttle: Save 3 miles by taking the shuttle boat round-trip—book at the visitor center.
- Wildlife Watch: Keep distance from moose; use binoculars to view them safely from the trail.
- Trail Mix: Pack a mix of nuts, dried fruit, and electrolyte tablets for steady energy.
2. Cascade Canyon Trail
Introduction
Cascade Canyon Trail launches from Jenny Lake’s south shore and carries you between the Grand Teton and Mount Owen ridges. The first mile is a gentle stroll past Hidden Falls; beyond that, the valley narrows into an amphitheater of jagged cliffs and towering waterfalls. Granite peaks reflect in the river pools, and pikas chatter from talus slopes. For ambitious hikers, branching onto South Fork Cascade Canyon leads to towering viewpoints and the base camp for attempts on the Grand Teton summit. This corridor combines dramatic geology with relative ease of access, making it one of the best trails in Grand Teton for both day hikers and backpackers seeking deeper canyon exploration.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 9.6 miles round-trip to Forks
- Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight beyond Forks
Best Time to Visit
July–September: Snowmelt recedes, waterfalls are full, and high-country camps open.
Pack List & Trail Notes
- Backpack Essentials: Shelter, stove, bear canister—camping spots are limited past Forks.
- Layer Up: Afternoons can bring thunderstorms; pack a waterproof shell.
- Stream Crossing: Use trekking poles to stay stable on slippery logs over Cascade Creek.
- Leave No Trace: Camp only at designated sites to protect fragile alpine meadows.
3. Amphitheater Lake Trail
Introduction
Climbing from Marion Lake Trailhead, the Amphitheater Lake Trail ascends through dense spruce and fir into a cirque carved by ancient glaciers. As the forest thins, the basin opens onto turquoise Amphitheater Lake—cradled by 10,000-ft granite walls. The dramatic bowl was once an ice-filled amphitheater, and its steep sides still shed occasional snowfields in summer. Hikers here often encounter hardy mountain goats navigating narrow ledges, and the quiet mirror surface reflects the Grand Teton in near-perfect symmetry. This route is celebrated as one of the best hikes Grand Teton National Park offers for photographers and alpine enthusiasts seeking a high-elevation payoff on a moderate effort.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 10.2 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,600 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight camping
Best Time to Visit
Late July–Mid September: Snow-free trail and lake access; late-season wildflowers still bloom at lower elevations.
Navigation & Weather Tips
- Early Departure: Start before dawn to avoid afternoon storms common above 9,000 ft.
- Wayfinding: Trail can be obscured in snowfields—carry a GPS track and map.
- Sun Protection: No shade on upper switchbacks; wear a sun hat and SPF 50+.
- Hydration: Filter water from Marion Lake before the steep climb to stay light.
4. String Lake Loop (Jenny Lake Area)
Introduction
The String Lake Loop encircles a shallow, emerald-hued lake framed by willow thickets and rugged peaks—a favorite for families and anglers alike. A well-maintained boardwalk begins the 3-mile loop, offering birdwatching opportunities over marshy inlets. As you proceed, vista points open onto Grand Teton’s south face and the Teton Range’s silhouette at sunrise. Wildflowers carpet the damp meadows in June, and sun-warmed rocks by the shoreline provide perfect spots for a picnic or quick dip. This gentle circuit qualifies as one of the best easy hikes in Grand Teton National Park, combining accessibility with sweeping alpine scenery just a stone’s throw from the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 3.7 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 200 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Permit: None (7-day park pass required)
Best Time to Visit
June–August: Warm temperatures and peak wildflower season make lakeside breaks most enjoyable.
Mosquito & Sun Protection Advice
- Bug Net: Bring head net and DEET repellent—willow marshes are prime mosquito habitat in summer.
- Swim Gear: Water temperatures average 50–60 °F; wear quick-dry shorts for lakeside wading.
- Shade Breaks: Use lakeside rock overhangs for midday respite from direct sun.
- Path Etiquette: Stay on boardwalk to protect shoreline vegetation and avoid tick habitat.
5. Leigh Lake Trailhead
Introduction
The Leigh Lake Trailhead serves as the gateway to a serene, subalpine paradise where towering pines meet glassy waters. Starting from the String Lake parking area, the trail climbs gently alongside cascading Cascade Creek before entering a dense Douglas-fir grove. After crossing a wooden footbridge, the forest opens onto Leigh Lake’s beach-like shoreline, framed by Mt. Moran’s imposing north face. The lake’s shallow entry makes it ideal for wading and quick dips, while sandy pockets invite picnics and reflection beneath the Tetons’ shadow. Interpretive panels explain local geology and glacial history, enriching each step with context. Wildlife—moose and elk—often graze the lakeshore at dawn, rewarding early-bird hikers. For many, this route is the best places to hike in Grand Teton for a no-frills nature immersion just minutes from Jenny Lake.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 5.8 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 500 ft
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- Permit: None (7-day park pass required)
Best Time to Visit
June–September: Snow-free access and warm days encourage lakeside breaks and wildflower meadows in July.
Food Storage & Bear Safety
- Bear Canister: Store all food and scented items in approved containers at designated lockers.
- Food Prep: Cook 200 ft from water sources to avoid wildlife attracting to campsites.
- Noise Protocol: Talk or sing softly on approach to avoid startling bears in dense forest.
- Clean Campsite: Pack out all scraps—fish guts and fruit peels attract bears and raccoons.
6. Taggart Lake Trail
Introduction
Winding through fragrant sagebrush meadows and ancient aspen stands, the Taggart Lake Trail is a quintessential Grand Teton hikes experience. From the Tony Grove Road junction, hikers follow a well-graded path beneath the Cathedral Group, with intermittent viewpoints of the Teton Range reflected in Jackson Lake. The trail briefly crosses trout-filled streams on log bridges before entering mixed-fir forests. Taggart Lake emerges like a mirror, its still surface broken only by swimming ducks or ripples from gentle breezes. Bench rock outcrops at the lake’s edge invite a snack break, with alpine winds carrying the scent of lodgepole pine. Interpretive signage explains local flora and fauna, while backcountry permit stations mark overnight campsite availability near the north shore. For a quick yet rewarding best hikes in Grand Teton, this loop is unbeatable.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 3.4 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 400 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Permit: None (7-day park pass required)
Best Time to Visit
May–October: Early season sees melting snow feeding cascades; summer offers insect-free days.
Parking & Shuttle Info
- Early Arrival: The small Taggart Lake lot fills by 9 AM—consider carpooling or park-and-ride.
- Shuttle Service: In peak season, a free park shuttle runs from Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
- Overflow Parking: Park on Teton Park Road and walk 0.5 mile to trailhead if lot is full.
- Trail Access: Avoid blocking the narrow access road while waiting for shuttle pickup.
7. Phelps Lake Loop
Introduction
The Phelps Lake Loop offers a tranquil counterpoint to the high-drama of the Teton peaks, guiding hikers around a sapphire lake surrounded by sage flats and trembling aspen groves. Beginning at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, the route follows boardwalks over wetlands rich in birdlife before entering Douglas-fir forest. Aspen groves flare in gold each autumn, mirrored in Phelps Lake’s calm surface. Interpretive stations detail the Preserve’s conservation history, emphasizing leave-no-trace practices amid this fragile ecosystem. The loop’s gentle grade makes it one of the best family hikes in Grand Teton National Park, suitable for strollers and older visitors. Wildflower displays in spring—lupine and paintbrush—add color to the quiet woods, while benches at boat docks invite peaceful reflection.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 7.5 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 250 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Permit: None (Laurance Rockefeller fee applies)
Best Time to Visit
May–September: Bird migrations peak in May; fall color arrives mid-September through October.
Trail Junction Tips
- Boardwalk Follow: Stay on raised paths to protect sensitive wetland plants.
- Stroller Friendly: Boardwalks accommodate strollers but veer onto natural trail for solitude.
- Boat Dock Bypass: Shortcut via dock area cuts 1 mile but watch for boat traffic.
- Quiet Zone: Preserve requests low conversational volume to protect wildlife—whisper.
8. Death Canyon Trailhead
Introduction
Launching from the White Grass Ranch area, the Death Canyon Trailhead is the start of a dramatic jaunt into one of the Tetons’ deepest and wildest chasms. The initial tread follows a rustic ranch road, gradually ascending through sage, aspen, and pine until the valley narrows beneath steep granite walls. Rushing creek crossings and log bridges punctuate the route, leading to a series of narrow narrows where light filters through towering cliffs. Alpine meadows bursting with lupine in early summer precede glacial remnants near the shelf. Hikers report sightings of bighorn sheep on rocky outcrops, and the canyon’s remoteness ensures solitude rare in GTNP. The best trails in Grand Teton often begin here, offering backpackers access to the Death Canyon Shelf and beyond into Alaska Basin.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 9.2 miles round-trip to Shelf
- Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight camping
Best Time to Visit
July–September: Access roads clear of snow by mid-July; late-season wildflowers and stable weather.
Leave No Trace Principles
- Camp on Rock: Preferred campsites are bare rock—avoid fragile meadow soils.
- Pack Out Waste: Use waste bags for human waste; no burying above 9,000 ft.
- Food Storage: Use bear hangs or lockers at designated zones—caches attract critters.
- Trail Respect: Stay on the singletrack to prevent erosion in narrow canyon sections.
9. Delta Lake Trail
Introduction
The Delta Lake Trail climbs steeply from the Lupine Meadows trailhead into a stark glacial landscape carved by ancient ice streams. The first miles weave through fragrant pines and redpaint rock, but soon the forest gives way to barren moraine fields that challenge your footing. Emerging onto the delta, you’re met with a startling sight: a vivid blue lake rimmed by calving cliffs of quartzite debris. Icebergs drift silently on its surface, and the absence of trees across the basin reinforces the raw power of glacial sculpting. Delta Lake’s high elevation (over 9,000 ft) demands respect for sudden weather changes, yet clear days reward hikers with surreal alpine vistas. This is not just a hike—it’s a geological journey unrivaled among unique things to do in Grand Teton National Park.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 9 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight stays
Best Time to Visit
August–Early September: Late-season window when snow has melted but pre-first snowfall.
Route Finding & Gear Advice
- Trekking Poles: Essential for scree and moraine crossings—enhances balance on loose talus.
- Crampons: Early August may still hold snowfields; microspikes improve traction.
- Navigation Aid: Cairns mark the upper route but carry a map and GPS as backup.
- High-Energy Snacks: Pack calorie-dense foods—steep, sustained gain burns 600+ calories per hour.
10. Hermitage Point Trail
Introduction
Circling the northern shore of Jackson Lake, the Hermitage Point Trail blends quiet forest, sage flats, and panoramic alpine views in a 9-mile figure-eight. The route begins beneath stately lodgepole pines, gradually giving way to open meadows where pronghorn and moose graze. The path then climbs to Hermitage Point, a rocky promontory offering 270-degree vistas of the Teton Range reflected in the lake’s still waters. Interpretive panels frame the area’s Mormon settler history and John D. Rockefeller’s conservation legacy. Spring lupine and Indian paintbrush burst in color along the flats, while evening light on the ridge creates a sublime golden glow. For a long day-hike that feels remote yet accessible, Hermitage Point ranks among the best moderate hikes in Grand Teton National Park.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 9 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 800 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit: None (7-day park pass required)
Best Time to Visit
June–September: Warm temperatures and calm morning winds optimize sunrise views from the point.
Best Sunrise & Sunset Spots
- Sunrise at Point: The eastern ridge catches first light—arrive 30 minutes early for color gradient.
- Sunset Overwater: Western flats reflect fiery skies—look out for flocking waterfowl against alpenglow.
- Tripod Prep: The rocky point provides stable footing for long-exposure shots.
- Camping Option: Backcountry sites near Sheep Creek allow early starts and late returns.
11. Lupine Meadows Trail to Garnet Canyon
Introduction
Starting near the Continental Divide, the Lupine Meadows Trail ascends through dense forest before opening onto expansive talus fields strewn with huckleberry bushes and, in midsummer, brilliant lupine blooms. Beyond the meadows, the route steepens into Garnet Canyon’s scree slopes, offering close-up views of the Grand Teton’s north face and the Cathedral Group’s jagged spires. Climbers use this corridor to access high camps and summit attempts, leaving cairns that guide hikers through the complex moraine. The trail’s unique blend of subalpine meadows and granite chaos makes it one of the recommended hikes for Grand Teton National Park—a gateway to both day hikes and technical ascents alike.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 8 miles round-trip to Teewinot
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 ft
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight camping
Best Time to Visit
July–September: Stable weather window; early July may still have lingering snow patches.
Altitude Acclimatization Tips
- Gradual Gain: Spend a night at lower elevation campgrounds like Cottonwood to adapt.
- Hydration & Rest: Drink 1.5–2 L water per hour; rest breaks every 1,000 ft of gain.
- Snack Strategy: Eat small, frequent snacks to maintain energy and blood sugar levels.
- Monitor Symptoms: Watch for headache or nausea; descend if altitude sickness develops.
12. Death Canyon Shelf
Introduction
High on the western wall of Death Canyon, the Death Canyon Shelf offers a thrilling traverse along narrow benches that drop sharply into the canyon below. Reached via the Death Canyon Trailhead, this segment climbs relentlessly through mixed forest before stepping onto the shelf’s exposed ledges. Pinnacles of the Teton Range tower above, while the valley floor recedes over 2,000 ft beneath your boots. Alpine wildflowers cling to rock pockets in mid-summer amid sweeping gusts that can surprise even seasoned hikers. The sense of exposure—balanced by sturdy trail anchors and rope reinforcements on the most precarious sections—makes this one of the best moderate to strenuous hikes in Grand Teton for adrenaline seekers and geology enthusiasts alike.
Distance | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Permit
- Distance: 10 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,800 ft
- Difficulty: Strenuous, Exposed
- Permit: Backcountry permit required for overnight camping
Best Time to Visit
July–Early September: Late-season snowmelt clears the shelf; fall storms return by mid-September.
Safety at Exposed Sections
- Use Handrails: Fixed cables and chains at key spots—always maintain three points of contact.
- Helmet Recommended: Falling rock is possible; helmets protect against debris from above.
- Weather Watch: Avoid shelf if winds exceed 25 mph—gusts can unbalance hikers on narrow ledges.
- Group Travel: Hike with a partner for mutual spotting and assistance in route-finding.
Quick Comparison Table: 12 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
| Trail Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty | Best Season | Dog-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jenny Lake Trail | 256 ft | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ Easy | June–October | No |
| Cascade Canyon Trail | 1,100 ft | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ Moderate | June–October | No |
| Amphitheater Lake Trail | 3,000 ft | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ Hard | May–September | No |
| String Lake Loop | 540 ft | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ Easy | June–September | No |
| Leigh Lake Trail | 110 ft | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ Easy | June–September | No |
| Taggart Lake Trail | 400 ft | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ Easy | May–October | No |
| Phelps Lake Loop | 700 ft | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ Moderate | May–October | No |
| Death Canyon Trail | 2,000 ft | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ Moderate | June–September | No |
| Delta Lake Trail | 2,500 ft | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ Hard | May–October | No |
| Hermitage Point Trail | 150 ft | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ Easy | March–October | No |
| Lupine Meadows to Garnet Canyon | 2,500 ft | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ Hard | June–September | No |
| Death Canyon Shelf | 2,800 ft | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ Hard | July–September | No |
Notes:
- Difficulty Ratings: Based on elevation gain and trail conditions.
- Dog-Friendly: Dogs are generally not allowed on trails in Grand Teton National Park.
Best Trails by Type
Best Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
If you’re seeking best easy hikes in Grand Teton National Park, start with the String Lake Loop and Taggart Lake Trail—both under 4 miles with minimal elevation gain, framing alpine lakes and wildflower meadows. These routes are well-maintained and family-friendly, offering interpretive signs on glacial geology. Early mornings reward you with quiet shorelines and mirror-calm reflections of the Teton peaks. Pack a light snack and enjoy leisurely breaks at lakeside benches for a true alpine escape without the strain.
Best Family Hikes & Jenny Lake Area Loops
For best family hikes in Grand Teton National Park, nothing beats the Jenny Lake Trail combined with a shuttle boat ride, or the easy Amphitheater Lake approach for a longer outing. These loops feature gentle grades, abundant wildlife sightings, and informative ranger talks at Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Picnic spots near Hidden Falls allow little ones to explore cascading streams. These trails balance manageable terrain with front-row views of the Cathedral Group, making them perfect for multi-generational adventures.
Best Trails for Summiting the Grand Teton & Climbers Ranch (Moose, WY)
Adventurous hikers aiming for summiting the Grand Teton will find the Garnet Canyon route via Lupine Meadows Trail the most direct, while Climbers’ Ranch in Moose, Wyoming, serves as the historic base camp for guided ascents. Both require technical gear—ice axe, crampons—and a backcountry permit. Acclimatization is critical: plan early summit bids after overnight stays at high-elevation camps to manage altitude gain safely. Local guide services at Climbers’ Ranch offer expert support for a successful, secure summit experience.
Recommended Backpacking Routes in GTNP
The park’s backpacking in Grand Teton National Park shines on the Death Canyon to Alaska Basin Loop and the Teton Crest Trail, spanning 20–40 miles of remote alpine terrain. These multi-day routes traverse glacial lakes, wildflower meadows, and high-ridge passes above 10,000 ft. Permits are required, and campsites are primitive—pack lightweight shelter, bear canister, and stove. Water sources are plentiful early summer but dry to trickles by late August; plan caches accordingly to ensure a smooth journey through this iconic wilderness.
Recommended Itineraries for Grand Teton
1 Day Itinerary: Jenny Lake, Cascade Canyon & Inspiration Point
Kick off at dawn with the Jenny Lake loop to catch sunrise over the water, then ferry across to Cascade Canyon Trail for a 4-mile out-and-back to Hidden Falls. Hike onward to Inspiration Point for sweeping vistas of the valley floor. Return via shuttle boat to conserve energy. This full-day plan balances lakeside serenity with thrilling canyon walls, fitting the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park into one immersive day.
2 Day Itinerary: Leigh Lake & Phelps Lake Overnighter
Day one, tread the Leigh Lake Trailhead, enjoy lakeside camping under Mt. Moran’s shadow, and cook dinner at the backcountry site. Day two, pack up early to loop Phelps Lake via the Rockefeller Preserve’s boardwalks, appreciating wetland wildlife and fall foliage. This two-day trek combines moderate daily mileage with high-quality campsites—ideal for families and solo travelers seeking a deeper wilderness connection.
Multi Day Backpacking: Death Canyon & Alaska Basin Loop
Embark on a 3- to 4-day circuit starting at Death Canyon Trailhead, ascending to the shelf for sunset camps, then crossing into Alaska Basin via Hurricane Pass. Traverse rugged talus fields and lush meadows before descending through Granite Canyon back to Lupine Meadows. This challenging loop offers remote solitude, high-alpine vistas, and a true backpacking Teton adventure—plan permits well in advance and carry essential navigation tools.
Essential Gear & Preparation for Grand Teton
Footwear & Apparel for Rocky, Alpine Trails
- High-Ankle, Stiff-Sole Hiking Boots: The talus fields on Delta Lake Trail and the scree slopes of Amphitheater Lake demand boots with sturdy soles and ankle support. Look for models with a Vibram outsole for grip on wet rock, and a waterproof Gore-Tex lining to keep feet dry during stream crossings.
- Convertible, Quick-Dry Pants & Compression Base Layers: Alpine weather can swing 30 °F in a day. Lightweight pants with zip-off legs transition from cooler mornings to sunny afternoons. Underneath, merino wool or synthetic compression layers manage moisture and muscle fatigue at elevations above 9,000 ft.
- Insulating Mid-Layer & Wind Shell: At breakfast on the Death Canyon Shelf, temperatures can dip below freezing even in summer. Pack a lightweight fleece jacket and a packable wind shell—both are essential for sudden storms and high-wind ridges above treeline.
- Sun Hat & UV-Blocking Sunglasses: Granite surfaces reflect intense UV at high elevations. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face on Taggart Lake Trail, and polarized sunglasses protect your eyes, reducing glare when gazing at lakes like Jenny Lake.
Hydration, Nutrition & Altitude Acclimatization
- Dual-Bladder Hydration System: Carry at least 2 L of water in a front-facing bladder and 1 L in a back reservoir. At elevations above 8,000 ft—like Cascade Canyon Trail—your body loses hydration faster, so sip continuously rather than chugging at breaks.
- Electrolyte-Rich Snacks & Real Food: Dried fruit and nuts are fine, but adding small servings of cured meats, hard cheeses, or whole-grain energy bars provides sustained calories. Salt and potassium replacements stave off altitude-induced cramps on steep ascents to Delta Lake.
- Acclimatization Schedule: Spend your first full day hiking under 8,000 ft—try String Lake Loop—before pushing above 10,000 ft. Gradual exposure to altitude reduces headaches and nausea when tackling routes like Amphitheater Lake.
- Portable Water Filter & Purification Tablets: Backcountry sources—Cascade Creek or Marion Lake in Death Canyon—can be safely filtered on the go, saving pack weight and providing reliable hydration deep in the wilderness.
Bear Spray, Navigation Tools & Weather Safety
- Bear Spray & Holster: Store spray in an easily accessible holster on your hip. Use in wide loops to alert bears of your presence, especially near berry patches along Leigh Lake Trailhead, and never inside your pack.
- Redundant Navigation Kit: Carry a topographical map of Grand Teton National Park and a compass alongside a GPS device. Trails like the Garnet Canyon route can lose cairn visibility in snow melt—paper backups prevent getting lost above treeline.
- Weather-Resistant Backpack Cover & Dry Bags: Afternoon thunderstorms are common—pack electronics and spare layers in waterproof sacks. A rain-resistant cover over your pack prevents gear from soaking through during sudden downpours on exposed ridges.
- Storm-Ready First-Aid Kit: Include blister care, altitude sickness medication (e.g., acetazolamide), and emergency thermal blankets. Hypothermia risk rises rapidly if you’re stranded on high passes like those on Death Canyon Shelf.
Seasonal Hiking in Grand Teton National Park
Spring Hikes in Grand Teton
Spring (May–early June) unveils cascading waterfalls and lush wildflower meadows along Cascade Canyon Trail and Taggart Lake Trail. Snowmelt swells streams, making hidden falls thunderous but may require microspikes on icy patches above 8,000 ft. This season rewards early-bird hikers with fewer crowds and a dynamic display of lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies.
Summer Hikes in Grand Teton
Summer (mid-June–August) brings long, warm days ideal for high-alpine routes like Amphitheater Lake Trail and Delta Lake Trail. Trails clear of snow by July, revealing turquoise lakes and talus fields. Plan early starts to beat afternoon thunderstorms, and relish 16 hours of daylight for extended itineraries, including overnight backpacking in Death Canyon.
Fall Hikes in Grand Teton
Fall (September–October) offers crisp air and vibrant aspen gold along Phelps Lake Loop and Leigh Lake Trailhead. Cooler temperatures and fewer bugs make mid-elevation loops pleasant, while lower crowds enhance solitude. Early snow dusting on higher trails signals the end of the season—pack insulation for chilly nights and early-morning starts.
Winter Hikes in Grand Teton
Winter (December–March) transforms the park into a snowy playground. Popular routes such as the Hermitage Point Trail and String Lake Loop become groomed snowshoe paths, accessible with winter permits. Higher routes require avalanche awareness and skis or snowshoes, but frozen alpine lakes and rim-to-rim glows make it one of the most unique things to do in Grand Teton National Park under a blanket of fresh powder.
Final Thoughts on Grand Teton Hiking
Grand Teton National Park stands as one of America’s premier hiking destinations, offering everything from leisurely lake loops to adrenaline-charged alpine scrambles. With the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park, you can choose family-friendly circuits like String Lake Loop or push your limits on the Delta Lake Trail and Death Canyon Shelf. Each trail showcases the Tetons’ dramatic geology—glacially carved basins, towering granite spires, and shimmering high-alpine lakes—immersing hikers in a landscape shaped over millennia.
Preparation is key: equip yourself with supportive boots, layered apparel, and robust water and nutrition strategies to handle the park’s notorious elevation gains. Bear spray and navigation tools ensure safety in wildlife country and remote passes. Seasonal timing transforms your experience—from spring’s roaring waterfalls and wildflower blooms, through summer’s extended daylight for backcountry traverses, to fall’s golden aspen displays and winter’s serene snow-shoe adventures. By planning around these windows, you maximize photo ops, minimize hazards, and savor each environment in its peak form.
Whether you’re backpacking the backpacking Tetons routes, summiting the Grand Teton itself, or simply strolling along Jenny Lake Trail, every step in the park is a lesson in natural history and personal achievement. Utilize our recommended itineraries for day-hikes, overnight trips, or multi-day loops to tailor your journey to your fitness and interests. Respect Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in, stay on durable surfaces, and store food properly to protect wildlife and fragile alpine ecosystems.
Ultimately, Grand Teton hiking is about the interplay of sky, stone, and solitude. It challenges your body, rewards your senses, and etches memories of sunrise alpenglow and star-filled nights in the high country. Lace up your boots, study the Grand Teton National Park map, and embark on an adventure that figures among the best places to hike in Grand Teton—a journey you’ll revisit long after you’ve left these majestic peaks behind.
