The best hikes in Grand Teton National Park will offer you more than 200 miles of hiking trails that will take you past mountains, babbling brooks, waterfalls, and woods teeming with life.
The biggest problem you’ll face when visiting Grand Teton is where to start first. With so many miles of trails – each offering a different view of the park – you may find it hard to narrow your trip to just a few trails.
You can now breathe easy – we’ve brought some of the best trails in Grand Teton National Park together into one place!
If you’re planning to spend a few days in the park, don’t forget to add some of the top things to do in Grand Teton National Park (besides hiking) to your itinerary too.
Don’t leave home without your own: Lonely Planet Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks Travel Guide
15 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Table of Contents
1. Static Peak Divide
Kicking things off on our list of best hikes in Teton National Park is the Static Peak Divide. This trail takes hikers through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country.
With views of the Teton Mountain Range and Alaska Basin below, you’ll truly be standing on top of the world.
These views do come with a price, though. The Static Peak Divide is a full day hike and should only be attempted by experienced travelers. Stretching 16.3 miles, hikers should be prepared to spend anywhere from 10-12 hours on the trail.
Static Peak Divide Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Static Peak Divide trailhead is located near the White Grass Ranger Station. The Static Peak Divide trailhead begins on Moose-Wilson Road. (4-wheel drive is recommended).
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Death Canyon – White Grass
- Duration: 1 Day (10 – 12 Hours)
- Elevation Change: 5,000ft
- Trail Type: Out-and-Back
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: The Death Canyon trailhead also begins here.
Hot Tip: This park is not dog friendly. Keep your dog at home when visiting as there are no trails that allow dogs in Grand Teton National Park. They do allow dogs to be on a leash in the parking lots and at the trailheads.
2. Cascade Canyon Trail
The Cascade Canyon Trail offers a little bit of everything. While on your adventure, you’ll be passing by the scenic Jenny Lake, viewing the rushing Hidden Falls, and gazing up at the towering Teton Mountains.
Cascade Canyon Trail may showcase all the best sights in the park, but it’s not a hike for everyone. This strenuous trail is about 10 miles long and will take most travelers well over 5 hours to complete.
Cascade Canyon Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Cascade Canyon hiking trail in Grand Teton National Park starts from the Jenny Lake Trailhead on the south end of Jenny Lake.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Jenny Lake
- Duration: 5 – 6 Hours
- Elevation Change: 1110ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – September
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: The boat ride cuts off roughly 2.4 miles of walking each way.
Hot Tip: The Cascade Canyon hiking trail ends at the Forks of Cascade Canyon. From here you can hike longer, if you go left the trail go towards Hurricane Pass and Alaska Basin or if you hike right the path heads up to the North Fork of Cascade Canyon towards Lake Solitude.
3. Jenny Lake Loop
It’s no secret that Jenny Lake is the crown jewel at Grand Teton National Park. If you want to experience the true beauty of the water and the Grand Teton Mountain Range, there’s no better place to start than the Jenny Lake Loop.
Leading you around the full length of Jenny Lake, hikers will take in spectacular views of the forests and mountains. The Jenny Lake Loop is a moderate hike that takes some experience to attempt. The length of the trail is just 7.6 miles – perfect for a half-day trip.
This is easily one of the most popular hikes in the Grand Teton National Park. Expect the trail to be busy and the parking lot crowded. That said, don’t let that deter you. It’s still worth it!
Jenny Lake Loop Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: To find the Jenny Lake Loop trailhead, park at the Jenny Lake parking area and follow the paved path down to the boat dock.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Jenny Lake
- Duration: 3 – 4 Hours
- Elevation Change: 73ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: May – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: It is best to do the Jenny Lake Loop hike counter-clockwise since the views are more stunning.
Hot Tip: Always carry bear spray when hiking in Grand Teton National Park. Both grizzly bears and black bears call this park home.
4. Death Canyon
Don’t let the name Death Canyon scare you; hiking this trail will take you to some of the most impressive overlooks in Grand Teton National Park. As soon as you set foot on this trail, the views begin almost immediately.
Death Canyon Trail stretches a total of 18.7 miles, so be prepared for this hike to take the better part of a day. But with views passing by Phelps Lake and peaceful meadows, every second will be spent in awe.
Death Canyon Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: Death Canyon trailhead is located near the White Grass Ranger Station. The Death Canyon trailhead begins on Moose-Wilson Road. (4-wheel drive is recommended)
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Death Canyon – White Grass
- Duration: 1 Day (9-10 Hours)
- Elevation Change: 516ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: May – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: The Death Canyon trail is well maintained and is heavily used by hikers in Grand Teton National Park but most only go to the Phelps Lake overlook or branch off to the lake. The Static Peak Divide hiking trail also begins here.
Hot Tip: Don’t end your Death Canyon hike at the cabin! We highly recommend walking the very short distance up the Alaska Basin Trail for some great views of the upper portions of Death Canyon.
5. Phelps Lake Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that won’t take the entire day but still brings you to some of the best spots in Grand Teton National Park, check out Phelps Lake Trail.
This hike takes travelers right past the edge of the lake, with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains.
This moderate hike is only 7.6 miles long and takes most travelers anywhere from 4 to 5 hours to complete. Make sure you plan extra time for your picnic; you won’t want to miss out on sitting by the banks of the lake basking in the beauty of the mountains.
Phelps Lake Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Phelps Lake Loop trailhead is located on the Moose-Wilson Road located in the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Laurance S Rockefeller Preserve
- Duration: 4 – 5 Hours
- Elevation Change: 475ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: May – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: Phelps Lake Loop trail is a nice easy hiking trail located in Grand Teton National Park, it also offers some pretty good scenery thought the whole hike.
Hot Tip: If you have extra time you should plan on taking a side hiking trip up to the Phelps Lake overlook, the views are stunning and it will be worth your time and spent energy.
6. String Lake Loop
If you’re not keen to tackle the more challenging hikes in Grand Teton, here’s one for you. Lake Loop is an easy hike that can be completed by travelers of all experience levels.
Showcasing several lakes along the way, such as Leigh Lake, Bearpaw Lake, and Jenny Lake, you’ll be able to see all the best sights in a few hours.
String Lake Loop can be done by anyone, from seasoned travelers to families. The trail is only 4.4 miles long and takes around 3 hours to complete.
String Lake Loop Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The String Lake Loop trail beings from the String Lake trailhead located just North of Jenny Lake.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: String Lake
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Elevation Change: 275
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: This is one of the easiest hikes in Grand Teton National Park and offers amazing views along with great chances of sporting a variety of wildlife.
Hot Tip: You should hike the String Lake loop in Grand Teton National Park counter-clockwise so you can enjoy the best views of the mountains, otherwise they will be at your back.
7. Paintbrush Canyon Trail
This hike through Paintbrush Canyon will take you through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in Grand Teton National Park, but be prepared to spend a lot of time on the trail.
Many hikers spend anywhere between 2 and 3 days on the road, camping along the way. If you’re willing to hike the 18.3 miles, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime! If you like long trails, this is one of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park for you.
Paintbrush Canyon Trail will have you exploring all the top sights in the park, with stops at Jenny Lake, Cascade Canyon, and Inspiration Point.
Paintbrush Canyon Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Paintbrush Canyon trail begins at the Leigh Lake trailhead thats located north of Jenny Lake.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Leigh Lake
- Duration: 2-3 Days
- Elevation Change: 3975ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains). Afternoon thunderstorms are normal in this area.
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: Early season hikers should check with a ranger on trail conditions before attempting this hike.
Hot Tip: Hikes hiking the Paintbrush Canyon – Cascade Canyon loop should be well prepared (Are you?) for weather conditions, including sun, wind, thunderstorms and snow.
8. Taggart Lake
Here is another easy 2-3 hour hike, perfect for travelers unable or unwilling to tackle the more strenuous trails. It’s no secret why this one makes the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park list.
Taggart Lake Trail stretches just 3.3 miles and will take you through lush forests and past clean blue lakes.
Taggart Lake is the trail’s highlight, but hikers will also enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and beautiful Bradley Lake.
Taggart Lake Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Taggart Lake trail begins from the Taggart Lake trailhead located about 2.3 miles north of the Moose entrance station in Grand Teton National Park.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Taggart Lake
- Duration: 2 – 3 Hours
- Elevation Change: 182ft
- Trail Type: Out-and-Back
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning or early afternoon. (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: You can turn this hike into a loop by hiking the Taggart Lake trail then to the Bradley trail.
Hot Tip: The Taggart Lake trail is one of the most popular hikes in Grand Teton National Park. Parking at the trailhead can be difficult at times.
9. Alaska Basin
The Alaska Basin Loop may be a challenging trail for many hikers, but if you’re willing to push through the 15 miles, you’re sure to be left with memories that last a lifetime. Even though this is a long trail, many travelers complete the loop in 4 or 5 hours.
While hiking the Alaska Basin Loop, you’ll be traveling through quaint alpine meadows, past crystal clear lakes, and gazing up at the snow-capped mountains. Don’t be surprised if you also come across a moose on the trail.
Alaska Basin Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Alaska Basin trailhead leaves from the parking lot just above Treasure Mtn Scout Camp and is just off the road to Grand Targhee Ski Area.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Teton Canyon (South Teton Trailhead)
- Duration: 4 – 5 Hours
- Elevation Change: 2635ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: Lighting risk at higher elevations, a general rule of thumb is that you should turnaround before new to avoid the notorious afternoon thunderstorms that frequent the mountains. Hikers should be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations and make sure you have the proper gear.
Hot Tip: You are a visitor exploring prime bear habitat in Grand Teton National Park. You should always and we mean always carry bear spray, travel in groups of 3 or more and make lots of noise while hiking.
10. Hermitage Point Trail
Starting from Colter Bay, hikers will make their way to one of the most scenic overlooks in Grand Teton National Park. After traveling through wetlands and forests, you’ll be greeted with a jaw-dropping view of Jackson Lake and the Grand Teton Mountains.
Hermitage Point Trail can be completed in half a day. The trail stretches 9.7 miles and can be completed in about 4-5 hours.
Hermitage Point Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Hermitage Point trail begins at the left (South) of the backside of the Colter Bay Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park. Look for the sing that reads “Foot Trail Only” on the old road.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Colter Bay Visitor Center
- Duration: 4 – 5 Hours
- Elevation Change: 380ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: March – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: There is a backcounty campsite located at the southeast side of the loop.
Hot Tip: It doesn’t matter if your planning on hiking the Hermitage Point Trail or one of Grand Teton’s other great hiking trails, make sure you have the right hiking gear.
11. Hanging Canyon
Located to the south of Mount Saint John, Hanging Canyon Trail is a beautiful hike that takes visitors through alpine forests and past the famous Jenny Lake.
With sweeping views of the mountain range and valley below, this is one adventure you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary!
Hanging Canyon Trail can get a bit steep at times, which can be tricky for your average traveler. The entire trail stretches 8.8 miles and will take around 4-5 hours to complete.
Hanging Canyon Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Hanging Canyon trailhead begins at the String Lake parking area, follow the sings for the Jenny Lake west boat dock – Cascade Canyon.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Mount Saint John – String Lake
- Duration: 4 – 5 Hours
- Elevation Change: 3,090ft
- Trail Type: Out-and-Back
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No, Never take water from the lakes.
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: This is a difficult hiking trail due to being constantly uphill and it is difficult to follow the trail in some spots since it’s not marked well. Don’t be confused theres another canyon directly in front of the Hanging Canyon called Laurel Canyon.
Hot Tip: If you plan on hiking the Hanging Canyon hike in Grand Teton National Park we recommend using a GPS unit that has the route loaded or use a trail app to help you guide your way on this hike.
12. Amphitheater Lake
Are you thinking about leaving your average hikes behind and finding a more off the beaten path trail? Look no further than Amphitheater Lake.
Taking you high up into the mountains, Amphitheater Lake is actually one of several lakes you’ll find on top of the world. With alpine meadows and amazing views, this is a hike unlike any other.
The only drawback of the hike to Amphitheater Lake is that it’s not an easy climb. Only experienced travelers should attempt the 7-hour journey up the 10.1-mile trails.
Amphitheater Lake Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Amphitheater Lake trailhead in Grand Teton National Park begins from the Lupine Meadows trailhead.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Lupine Meadows
- Duration: 7 – 8 Hours
- Elevation Change: 2980ft
- Trail Type: Out-and-Back
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No, Never take water from the lakes.
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: Get there early to find a parking spot. The Lupine Meadows parking lot is known as one of the busiest parking areas in Grand Teton National Park. If there is no parking just wait, drive around until you find a good legal parking spot. People do park on the road but watch out since the National Park Service does fine people for doing so in certain areas.
Hot Tip: Just because the weather is nice at the bottom doesn’t mean you’ll have the same weather at the top. Be prepared for snow or wind with them at least 20-30 degrees different.
13. Two Ocean Lake Loop
Looking for another day trip at Grand Teton National Park? Why not spend your day hiking around the rim of the scenic Two Ocean Lake? With the Grand Teton Mountains reflected in the water, the views are something you’ll want to sit back and enjoy.
The entire Two Ocean Lake Loop stretches a total of 6.5 miles and is considered a moderate trail that travelers can complete with an average amount of hiking experience. You may come across all kinds of wild animals on the track – don’t forget to bring bear spray.
Two Ocean Lake Loop Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Two Ocean Lake Loop hike starts from the Two Ocean Lake trailhead.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Jackson Lake Lodge
- Duration: 2-3 Hours
- Elevation Change: 150ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: Hike the Two Ocean Lake Loop counter-clockwise for the best views, otherwise some of the best views will be to your back.
Hot Tip: While hiking the Two Ocean Lake Loop trail and any of the other great hiking trails in the Grand Teton National Park carry bear spray. In 1994 a jogger from Utah was attacked by a grizzly bear on the Emma Matilda Lake trail.
14. Colter Bay
Don’t assume there are no easy trails in Grand Teton National Park. Whether you’re a well-seasoned hiker or someone who seldom gets outdoors, the Colter Bay Loop is perfect for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Taking you along rocky beaches that offer breathtaking views of the water and surrounding mountains, these are views that you’d see on a postcard. The entire hike is only 2.5 miles and can be completed in around an hour.
Colter Bay Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Colter Bay trail begins at the right of the backside of the Colter Bay Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Colter Bay Visitor Center
- Duration: 1 Hour
- Elevation Change: 150ft
- Trail Type: Loop
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Morning (For best light on the mountains).
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: If you are looking for a longer hike near the Colter Bay Visitor Center we strongly recommend the Hermitage Point Trail, which begins to the far left of the Colter Bay Visitor Center.
Hot Tip: If you have time after hiking one of the best hiking trails in Grand Teton National Park, you can rent kayaks at the Colter Bay Marina, which gives an away different perspective to the views of the Teton Range.
15. Summit Trail
Finishing up our list of top hikes in Grand Teton National Park is the Summit Trail. This is another journey that can easily be done by travelers of all experience levels.
Located just behind the Jackson Hole Ski Resort, this short trail will give you a candid look at nature, and sweeping views of the mountain ranges.
Summit Trail is only 3.2 miles long and can be completed in 1 or 2 hours. Even though this is one of the easier hikes, the views are nothing short of spectacular.
Summit Trail Quick Information:
- Trailhead: The Grand Teton Summit Trail begins at the top of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram.
- Pets Allowed: No Dogs
- Location: Teton Village
- Duration: 2-3 Hours
- Elevation Change: 295ft
- Trail Type: Out-and-Back
- Season: June – October
- Time of Day: Any Time
- Water: No
- Bathrooms: Located in the parking area, None along the trail.
- Notes: The Summit Trail is one of the Grand Teton’s best family hikes. Buy your tram tickets online to save money.
Hot Tip: Skip breakfast or have a snack at the Top of the World Waffles located just below the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. There are several other great hiking trails at the top of the mountain.
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