Grand Teton National Park is truly an outdoor lover’s oasis. When you make the trip, you’ll see for yourself that the Grand Teton National Park is a pristine land unlike any other. It’s known for its picturesque mountains, sweeping vista views, pristine lakes, and plentiful wildlife. Sightings of moose, bear, and elk are commonplace.
The Grand Teton National Park is nearly 500 square miles in the remarkable Jackson Hole Valley. The majesty of this land will leave you inspired and amazed. While you probably know of the Teton’s picturesque canyons, glacier-fed lakes, and striking peaks, you may not know about the waterfalls pouring off of the eastern face of the Tetons. If hiking to a waterfall strikes your fancy, keep reading to find the best waterfall hikes in the Tetons!
The hiking trails in the Grand Tetons are suitable for hikers of all experience levels. And the fantastic views of the Teton Range should be enjoyed by everyone! So check out this Grand Teton hiking guide to plan your epic adventure!
Table of Contents
Beginner-Friendly Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail
Image Source: NPS
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 2.5 miles
- Trail Type: Loop trail
- Trail Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 1 hour
Colter Bay is named after John Colter, an essential member of the Lewis and Clark expedition. It’s believed that Colter was the first Euro-American to visit the Grand Tetons.
Colter Bay boats a multitude of trails of different experience levels. For an easy day hike, hop on the Lakeshore Trail for stunning Jackson Lake and the Teton Range views. The Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail loop hike starts behind the Colter Bay Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park. If you’re looking for a shorter hike, this one’s for you!
You’ll walk through a conifer forest on flat terrain along the trail. But it’s not all that easy- there are a few short climbs hiker you’ll have to conquer!
If you’re looking for more after the short hike, take a walk down to the Colter Bay Marina. There’s also the Colter Bay Campground in this location if you want to stay overnight.
Inspiration Point (via Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle)
Image Source: More Than Just Parks
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 1.8 miles
- Trail Type: Out-and-back trail
- Trail Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Estimated Time: 1 hour
The trail to Inspiration Point is an easy 1.8-mile out-and-back hike with about 550 feet of elevation gain. Any struggle you face in gaining elevation will be well worth the fantastic view of Jenny Lake! To keep this day hike short, you can take the Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle shortcut during the open season. If you plan to use this shuttle service, check the hours and prices before your trip!
The trail taken to Inspiration Point is one of the most popular hikes within the national park. Along this trail, you are hiking to both the spectacular Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point- you’ll also get great views of Jenny Lake, a stunning waterfall, and the Jackson Hole Valley.
Once you make it to the west side of Inspiration Point, the trail continues another 200 feet in elevation towards Hidden Falls. This beautiful waterfall is a 100 feet tall cascade fed by snowmelt.
String Lake Trail
Image Source: Wikipedia
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 3.7 miles
- Trail Type: Loop trail
- Trail Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
String Lake Trail is located at the very foot of the Teton mountain range within the Grand Teton National Park. The String Lake trailhead is very accessible, as it’s a 30-minute drive away from Jackson, Wyoming, and a short drive north of Jenny Lake.
If you’re looking for an easy and pleasant hike, you can’t go wrong with String Lake Trail! However, if you can get an early start, the stunning alpine views of the Tetons reflected in the glacial lake are unbeatable. There’s also an excellent chance to see some wildlife, such as moose or deer.
String Lake is also connected with Leigh Lake’s larger lake to the north. Both of these lakes are popular for water recreation like canoeing and kayaking. You’ll understand why when you feel the sense of peace of the dense forest and stunning mountain views.
The String Lake Trail is also great because it provides you with many options. For an easy day, take the flat trail that begins along the east shore of String Lake and takes you north to Leigh, Bearpaw, and Trapper Lakes.
If you’re looking for a longer hike, continue to venture up Cascade or Paintbrush Canyons to reach the alpine lakes such as Lake Solitude and Holly Lake. This trail encompasses String Lake, and it’s also an access point for Paintbrush Canyon Trail and the Leigh Lake Trail. The possibilities are endless!
Challenging Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Lake Solitude Trail
Image Source: Trip Advisor
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 16.6 miles
- Trail Type: Out-and-back trail
- Trail Difficulty: Hard
- Estimated Time: 8-9 hours
The Lake Solitude Trail is well-marked and packed with lovely views from start to finish. The trail is challenging due to the miles, but it’s not a technical hike. In total, you’ll gain 2,255 feet in elevation.
The Lake Solitude Trail begins near String Lake and takes you around the beautiful blue waters of Jenny Lake. Then, finally, it takes you up through Cascade Canyon. The last stretch of the trail to Lake Solitude boasts unbeatable views of the Teton Range.
Solitude Lake is enclosed on almost three sides by a headwall that rises 1500 feet above the lake to add to its beauty. From this unique perspective, you’ll be able to see the distinct difference in size between Teewinot Mountain, Mt. Owen, and Grand Teton. For many hikers, the trail to Lake Solitude shows off the best features of Grand Teton National Park.
Phelps Lake Loop Trail
Image Source: Jackson Hole
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 7 miles
- Trail Type: Loop trail
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
The Phelps Lake Loop Trail is a popular and family-friendly day hike choice within the Grand Teton National Park. Many hikers will say that the views from Phelps Lake are some of the best in the whole park! It’s a moderately challenging route with about 700 feet of elevation gain throughout this trail.
Phelps Lake is located southwest of the Moose Entrance of Grand Teton National Park. It’s a well-known feature of the Death Canyon Trail. And once you set foot on this trail, you’ll understand why. The massive peaks of the Teton Range reflected in the large, picturesque lake in a way like no other. The course starts at the White Grass Ranger Station and then climbs to the Phelps Lake Overlook. Finally, you’ll head back down to access this beautiful glacial-fed lake.
This moderate hike is a little more than four miles and does a lap around Phelps Lake before returning to the trailhead. But if that’s not enough, don’t worry! Alternative routes are available, including a trail system leading to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, which can extend the Phelps Lake Trail into a full-day excursion!
Teton Crest Trail
Image Source: Clever Hiker
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 25.7 miles
- Trail Type: Point-to-point trail
- Trail Difficulty: Hard
- Estimated Time: 14-15 hours
The Teton Crest Trail is a beautiful hike that boasts epic views and wildflowers galore. The trail begins at the top of Rendezvous Mountain, above 10,000 feet. Then, the Teton Crest Trail drops down into a valley before climbing up the opposite ridgeline again. In total, you’ll gain 3,828 feet in elevation on this hike.
Because of the trail’s length, it’s a good idea to make it a multi-day hike. Marion Lake is at the top of a climb, making it a gorgeous lunch spot or a camp for the night. From there, another steep climb will take you to the ridge of the Death Canyon Shelf. Up here, you’ll love the stunning 360-degree views and the abundance of clear, cold streams.
This high-route trail provides spectacular and impressive views of gigantic granite peaks, glacier-carved canyons, crystal clear lakes, and wildflower meadows. The gorgeous high alpine scenery along the Teton Crest Trail is unlike anything else in this area.
Can’t Miss Waterfall Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Cascade Canyon Trail
Image Source: Jackson Hole WY
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: Approximately 9 miles
- Trail Type: Out-and-back trail
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
- Estimated Time: 4-5 hours
The Cascade Canyon Trail is a fantastic hike into the base of the Cathedral Group in the Grand Tetons. It’s a popular entrance point leading to a network of hiking trails commonly used as overnight backpacking routes. Take the Jenny Lake shuttle boat to cross the lake to get to the trailhead. Be sure to check the shuttle hours and prices before you go!
The Cascade Canyon Loop will bring you deep into Grand Teton National Park. It takes you up to the stunning cascading waterfall Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Many hikers stop at this point, but continuing along Cascade CanyonCreek is worth it for the sweeping views!
Cascade Canyon is an excellent area for spotting wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for moose and bears- they are common in this area.
If you’re looking for a longer and more strenuous hike or an overnight adventure, you can link Cascade Canyon Trail with Paintbrush Canyon or the Teton Crest Trail, where you can continue south as far as Teton Pass.
Hidden Falls Trail
Image Source: NPS
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: Approximately 5 miles
- Trail Type: Loop trail
- Trail Difficulty: Easy
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
The Hidden Falls Trail of Grand Teton National Park is a lovely trail with access to beautiful waterfalls and an accessible junction to Inspiration Point. It’s a primarily easy hike, with a few steep portions closer to the top.
Hidden Falls is one of the most popular trails in the park- and you’ll soon learn why! Hiking to Hidden Falls provides you with spectacular views of Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole, not to mention the stunning 100-foot cascading waterfall. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to continue further, head up another half-mile to Inspiration Point.
Hidden Falls is the most accessible waterfall in Grand Teton National Park. Because of its beauty and notoriety, this trail is often hectic as it is one of the best for families, and it’s easily accessible as a short hike. Hike both out and back rather than taking the shuttle across Jenny Lake to avoid the hustle and bustle on busy days.
Taggart Lake, Lake Taminah, and Shoshoko Falls Trail
Image Source: AllTrails
- Location: Grand Teton National Park
- Trail Length: 13.2 miles
- Trail Type: Out-and-back trail
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate – hard
- Estimated Time: 7-8 hours
Taggart Lake Trail is an easy, out-and-back trail that will provide you with some of the best views of the Teton Range. As you depart from Taggart Lake Trailhead, you’ll soon find yourself in an aspen forest before the trail opens up to views of the Tetons. Here you’ll have some incredible panoramic views of an alpine lake with the Teton Range.
This out-and-back trail is a challenging, full-day hike with views that are well worth it. This big-time adventure hike is worth the challenge between the three gorgeous lakes and ample wildlife.
And even better- the entire area features beautiful waterfalls coming from all of the lakes! Along this trail, you’ll catch sight of Snowdrift Lake sitting below. You’ll also see the beauties of Mount Wister, Veil Peak, The Wall, and the South Teton.
What to Bring on Your Hike in the Grand Tetons
The right hiking gear will make or break your experience hiking in the Grand Tetons. Additionally, you should always check the weather and conditions before hitting the trail. So, what is essential for this epic adventure?
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, supportive, and durable footwear will be necessary for hiking in the Tetons.
- Rain Jacket: A rain jacket is highly recommended if you’re hiking in the spring or fall. During these months, pop-up rain showers and storms are expected.
- Sun Protection: The sun is more intense at higher altitudes. Make sure you have everything you need to protect yourself from harmful rays! A sunhat, sunglasses, UPF clothing, and sunscreen are all great options.
- Warm Layers: When hiking in the Tetons, you will need various layers for weather changes. Pack a shell to protect you from rain and wind and an insulating layer to keep you warm. And check the weather and temperature forecasts before you go!
- Day Pack: You’ll need a comfortable and durable daypack to store any goodies you need throughout the day! Warm layers, water, snacks, and your maps will all need to fit in here.
- Water: The Tetons’ high elevation and dry climate mean you’ll have to hydrate even more than usual. So always make sure you have more than enough water for your hike. It’s also a good idea to carry a water filter or another form of treatment if you get in a pinch.
- Nutrition: Don’t forget your lunch and trail snacks! You’ll want to keep your body fueled all day long.
- Trail map: Even if you’re familiar with the hiking trail, it’s always good to bring a paper trail map and compass.
- First aid kit: You never know what could happen on the trail! So be prepared for injury or illness by packing a first aid kit.
- Bear Spray: There are many black bears in the Grand Tetons, but make sure you know how to use the bear spray before bringing it along correctly!
Hiking in Grand Teton National Park FAQs
What’s the best time of year to visit the Grand Tetons?
The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is from mid-May to late September. During this time, the visitor centers, hiking trails, and other park activities are open and accessible. Unfortunately, the park starts shutting down most of its facilities and roads in October as the snow begins to blow.
What town is closest to Grand Teton National Park?
- Moose, WY: 0.3 miles
- Jackson Hole, WY: 3.4 miles
- Jackson, WY: 13 miles
- Kelly, WY: 13.5 miles
- Teton Village, WY: 25.3 miles
- Driggs, ID: 45.8 miles
Where should I stay while hiking the Grand Tetons?
- Teton Teepee Lodge in Alta, WY
- The Lodge in Jackson Hole, WY
- Teton Valley Cabins in Driggs, ID
- Jenny Lake Campground in Moose, WY
- Gros Ventre Campground in Kelly, WY
How long should I stay in the Grand Tetons?
To explore Grand Teton National Park at a comfortable pace, you should plan to spend at least three days there.
Where can I find waterfalls in Grand Teton National Park?
Hidden Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Grand Teton National Park.
AllTrails also has a compiled list of all of the hikes with waterfalls in the area.
If you didn’t know it before reading this hiking guide, Grand Teton National Park is a true hiker’s oasis. Whether it’s the alpine backdrops, glacier-fed waters, or various wildlife that excites you, there’s something for everyone while hiking Grand Teton. So prepare yourself to counter some of the most terrific mountain scenery in the American West!
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