Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, in the United States. It is named after the Grand Teton, the highest peak in the Teton Range, which rises to an elevation of 13,775 feet.
The park covers an area of approximately 310,000 acres and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, bison, wolves, and pronghorn antelope. It is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and scenic valleys.
Grand Teton is a hiking wonderland home to over 250 miles of trails to choose from, there are options ranging from short walks to more effortful backcountry trails. With more than 250 miles of trails to choose from it can be difficult finding the ones to do.
In this article we are using our countless hours of research and exploration of the Grand Tetons to provide you a list of the 8 best hikes in Grand Teton National Park.
Grand Teton National Park Highlights
Best Time to Go Fall (September to November): The crowds begin to thin out, and the weather is cooler. The fall foliage is stunning during this time, and it’s an excellent time for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
How to Get Here and Around: Overall, getting to Grand Teton National Park is fairly easy and is not too much of a chore. There are quite a few options, if flying in the closest airport is the Jackson Hole Airport. By car there are a lot of options coming from Salt Lake City, Utah, Boise, Idaho or the East side of Wyoming.
Camping In Grand Teton National Park: There are quite a few campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park ranging from primitive sites to RV-friendly options. Some popular campgrounds include Jenny Lake, Signal Mountain, and Gros Ventre.
National Park Pass: Grand Teton National Park does have a fee depending on vehicle and time of the year. In the summer it is $35 per private vehicle to see other conditions of entry check out the NPS site.
If you plan on visiting other National Parks, The America the Beautiful Park pass is a huge money saver. It will give you access to over 400+ park systems and all National Parks for the whole year!
Don’t Forget Leave No Trace: Before heading on your outdoor journey, make sure to review the Leave No Trace principles to help protect and leave these National Parks better than you found them.
The 8 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Cascade Canyon Trail
- Length: 9.10 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1102ft
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Dogs Allowed: No
The Cascade Canyon Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Grand Teton National Park. The trail starts at Jenny Lake and winds through the stunning Cascade Canyon, offering hikers spectacular views of the Teton Mountains, wildflowers, and wildlife.
The trail is about 9 miles roundtrip. I would rate it about moderate difficulty; it does have some steep climbs and rocky terrain. It can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Along the way, I recommend checking out the stunning Hidden Falls, a 100-foot waterfall, as well as Inspiration Point, a scenic overlook that offers sweeping views of Jenny Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Insider tip: Be prepared with hiking boots or trail shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. The trail around Inspiration point and Hidden falls gets super busy during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
Delta lake Trail
- Length: 7.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2299ft
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Dogs Allowed: No
The Delta Lake Trail is a challenging and used to be one of the lesser known hikes in Grand Teton National Park. It is a really scenic hike that leads to a stunning alpine lake with panoramic views of the Teton Range. The trailhead is located at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead, which is about 9 miles south of Moose, Wyoming.
The hike is roughly 7ish miles roundtrip and has quite a bit of elevation gain so be ready for that. I would say this is one of the more difficult day hikes in the park and would rate it hard. The trail starts off with a gradual ascent through a forested area before reaching a steep and rocky section known as the “boulder field.”
After traversing the boulder field, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, with switchbacks leading to the top of a ridge. From the ridge, you’ll have incredible views of the valley below and the surrounding mountains.
The final stretch of the hike descends into a beautiful alpine basin where you’ll find Delta Lake. The lake is a brilliant turquoise color and is surrounded by towering peaks, including the iconic Grand Teton. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the scenery before making the return trip.
Insider tip: Have a hard map and if using a phone app make sure it is downloaded. Also, be prepared Delta Trail is strenuous and rocky but the views are definitely worth it.
Taggart and Bradley Lake
- Length: 6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 761ft
- Route Type: Loop
- Dogs Allowed: No
This hike is a fairly popular loop. You can do it either way starting on the Taggart Lake loop Trail or Beaver. When we completed it we started on the Taggart Lake Trailhead and followed it as it gradually took us through a beautiful forested area before opening up to views of Taggart Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Next, the loop followed around Taggart Lake and led us to Bradley Lake which was also stunning with magnificent mountainous views. This trail was one of our favorites as it was not too strenuous. We did complete this one in the offseason and there was quite a bit of snow still on the ground, which made it feel a little tougher.
Taggart Lake
- Length: 3.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 419ft
- Route Type: Loop
- Dogs Allowed: No
This hike starts at the Taggart Lake Trailhead and takes hikers through a forested area leading up to Taggart Lake. The trail to Taggart Lake is mostly flat and fairly easy. I would highly recommend this loop for families with children as it is not too terribly long and it is lower in elevation gain while still being an amazing trail.
Jenny Lake Trail
- Length: 7.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 623ft
- Route Type: Loop
- Dogs Allowed: No
The Jenny Lake Trail is one of the more popular hiking trails out of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park. The trail is about a 8 mile loop that circles the picturesque Jenny Lake, offering stunning views of the Teton Range and the surrounding landscape.
The trailhead is located near the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, and the trail can be hiked in either direction. The most popular route is to start at the visitor center and hike clockwise around the lake. Along the way, hikers will pass through forests of lodgepole pine and aspen, as well as open meadows with wildflowers.
There are several side trails that branch off from the main trail, including a short detour to Hidden Falls, which is a hugely popular waterfall that cascades over a series of rocks. Another popular side trail leads to Inspiration Point, which offers spectacular views of Jenny Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Overall, I would rate this trail about moderate which is what my AllTrails app also rates it as. It is mostly mild and flat but there are some sections of steep inclines with rocky terrain. Jenny Lake Trail ranks up there for one of the hikes most people should do while visiting Grand Teton National Park.
Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
- Length: 2.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 577ft
- Route Type: Loop
- Dogs Allowed: No
Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Trail, probably the most popular hiking trail located in Grand Teton National Park. There are quite a few ways to get to Hidden Falls and Inspiration point. You can hike from the visitor center and take the Jenny Lake Trail Loop or you can use the Boat shuttle and be shuttled across Jenny Lake which cuts the distance down some.
Either way is a fun experience and just depends on your preference. Most people like to shuttle over Jenny Lake and hike to Hidden Falls and Inspirations Point as an out and back which is about 1.5 miles or so.
We found one of our favorite ways is to shuttle over Jenny Lake. Then make it a loop where you head to Hidden Falls, then cross the Cascade Creek taking the switchback to Inspiration Point. From there take the Inspiration Point trail and at the fork of Cascade Canyon Trail, take the right on the Horse Trail to String Lake Trail. This will gradually take you to the East and down a gradual decline. When you get back down take the Jenny Lake loop trail go back south towards the boat dock.
Overall, the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Trail is a beautiful hike with stunning views and a great way to experience the natural beauty of Grand Teton National Park.
Surprise & Amphitheater Lake trail
- Length: 10 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,001ft
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Dogs Allowed: No
This trail begins at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead and follows a switchback path through dense forests and open meadows. Along the way, hikers will pass scenic spots such as Garnet Canyon and Surprise Lake before arriving at Amphitheater Lake, a crystal clear alpine lake hugged by towering mountains.
AllTrails rates this hike as hard, and I definitely would concur. This trail is pretty steep and has a good amount of elevation gain. I would highly recommend trying this trail early. It will most likely take all day and Summer is usually the best time for this trail.
Overall, the Surprise and Amphitheater Lake Trail is an amazing trail and if you really have the courage you could try Disappointment Peak, the views are sure to not disappoint though be ready to have to scramble some.
String Lake Trail
- Length: 4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 291ft
- Route Type: Loop
- Dogs Allowed: No
The trailhead is located at the String Lake picnic area and is about 4 miles round trip. At the beginning you start off around the String Lake picnic area and follow along the shore of String Lake. Eventually you will hit a section where you cross a bridge towards the west.
On the West section you will encounter some steeper sections and a bit rockier terrain. Then follow it around until it loops back around till you reach the Jenny Lake Loop Trail and cross back over. Overall, the String Lake Trail is a beautiful hike with great views and makes for a great picnicking site.
Tips for Hiking in Grand Teton National Park
Leave No Trace: Don’t forget to follow the principles of leaving no trace. Remember to pack out what you pack in this way so we can keep these places beautiful for the next generations.
Plan Ahead: Always check the national park website and weather forecast. This helps you prepare for any weather changes or trail closures. That way there aren’t any surprises along the way.
Hike at Off Times: Grand Teton gets super busy during the summer. I recommend hiking at those slightly off times to avoid too much traffic and when temperatures are a little cooler.
Brush up on Basic First Aid: Be sure to re-stock any supplies you have used in your first aid kit. Also, be sure to revisit things in your first aid kit that you may need and also items that you haven’t used and don’t think you’ll need. The best first aid kit is one that is tailored to your needs.
Know Trail Etiquette: Don’t forget to brush up on hiking etiquette. In general, always try to give hikers going uphill the right of way, stay on the trail, and just be a decent person to others. You’d be surprised by how many people fail to do this. It is probably one of the most important things as it makes everyone’s experiences better.
Bring a Map: With the rise of many hiking phone apps it can be highly tempting to forego a paper map. Always bring a paper map. It is always better to have a backpack for navigation if things happen. Also, be sure you know how to read a topographic map!
Cell service: I highly recommend downloading the trail details prior to arriving and bringing a physical park map. I use AllTrails Pro to download all of my hiking maps so I can navigate without cell service. Services is really spotty, best cell service is at the visitor center.
Gear You Need for Hiking in Grand Teton National Park
Depending on what season you go will vary what you bring when I pack. But in general I would start with the following.
Hiking Backpack: This might go without saying. But I recommend bringing a hiking backpack or daypack depending on if you are day hiking or backpacking.
10 Essentials: I generally start with the 10 essentials and build from there. These essentials cover the basics for first aid, sunscreen, bug spray, headlamps, and more. It’s a system created in case of emergencies and to maximize comfort in the outdoors.
Hiking Layers: Layer up, Grand Teton in the summer often starts off cold and gets hot during the day. But you also want to bring layers for unpredictable weather events so you can stay dry and warm.
- Base Layer: Depending on when you go. You want either need a long sleeve, or t-shirt base layer. I like to start with moisture-wicking underwear and a synthetic or wool t-shirt or long sleeve shirt.
- Middle Layer: I recommend a loose nylon button down something durable but breathable. If you’re going in the cooler months or nights a fleece or puffy coat will work well. For bottoms a light breathable pair of hiking pants or shorts should work.
- Outer layers: I usually bring some light rain gear just in case or at least have a poncho. Be sure to check the forecast to plan ahead. On our hikes in the Grand Teton, it got fairly warm during the day but cooler at night.
Socks for hiking: Opt for a breathable pair of socks. I recommend a merino wool blend because they last long and keep your feet from becoming a “swamp”. There are a lot of awesome socks for hikers out there. My favorite is the Darn Tough light micro hiker.
Hiking boots, shoes, or hiking sandals: Most of the trails in Grand Teton are somewhat rocky. I would lean toward hiking boots, shoes, or trail runners. You definitely could rock hiking sandals if you wanted to. I just prefer to have my toes covered.
For footwear, my favorites are these Merrell Moab 3 or Speedgoat 5s. For hiking sandals, we really like our Chacos Z/1, they are a bit sturdier compared to other hiking sandals.
Best Time to Visit Grand Teton National Park
The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park depends on your preferences and the activities you want to do. Here’s an overview of the different seasons:
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. The park is very crowded during this time, and accommodation rates are at their highest. However, this is the best time for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Fall (September to November): The crowds begin to thin out, and the weather is cooler. The fall foliage is stunning during this time, and it’s an excellent time for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
Winter (December to February): The park is covered in snow during the winter, and the temperatures can be very cold. However, this is the best time for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Spring (March to May): The weather is mild, and the crowds are beginning to pick up. The wildflowers are in bloom during this time, and it’s an excellent time for hiking and photography.
In summary, the best time to visit Grand Teton National Park depends on what you want to do and your personal preferences. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, summer and fall are the best times to visit. If you prefer winter sports, then winter is the ideal time.
Getting Here and Around Grand Teton National Park
Overall, getting to Grand Teton National Park is fairly easy and is not too much of a chore. There are several ways to get to Grand Teton National Park, depending on your starting location and preferred mode of transportation.
By Car: Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, approximately 5 hours from Salt Lake City, Utah, and 4 hours from Boise, Idaho. The park is easily accessible from the north and south via US Highway 89, and from the east via US Highway 26/287.
By Air: The closest airport to Grand Teton National Park is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is located just 10 miles from the park. Several airlines, including Delta, American, and United, offer daily flights to Jackson Hole Airport from major cities across the United States.
Once you arrive at Grand Teton National Park, you can explore the park’s many attractions, including the Teton Range, the Snake River, and the park’s numerous hiking trails and scenic drives.
Camping In Grand Teton National Park
Camping at Grand Teton National Park is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and wilderness of the area.
Campgrounds: Grand Teton National Park has several campgrounds to choose from, ranging from primitive sites to RV-friendly options. Some popular campgrounds include Jenny Lake, Signal Mountain, and Gros Ventre. Each campground has its own unique features and amenities, so be sure to research on the NPS site to find which one is best for your needs.
Wilderness permits: Grand Teton offers Backcountry permits. But before you apply it is worth your while to plan ahead, research bear and wildlife safety, leave no trace, and outdoor basics. You can check out the NPS site to get started.
Overall, camping in Grand Teton National Park is a wonderful way to connect with nature and experience the stunning beauty of the area. With some careful planning and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hike in the Grand Tetons? There are a lot of amazing hikes in the Grand Tetons. The best hikes in Grand Teton National Park are Cascade Canyon, Delta Lake, and Hidden Lake and Inspiration Point loop, just to name a few. There are a ton of other awesome hikes and incredible backpacking trails.
Is hiking better in Yellowstone or Grand Teton? It just depends on what you want to see. Yellowstone has more variety in the type of hikes you can do. Grand Teton National Park has the best hikes out of the two when it comes to mountainous scenery.
What is the most difficult hike in the Tetons? Probably the Middle Teton hike is one of the most challenging. There are a lot of backpacking loops that are challenging like Paintbrush Canyon which I recommend breaking up in 2-3 days.
Summary of Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
- Cascade Canyon Trail
- Delta lake trail
- Taggart and Bradley Lake
- Taggart Lake
- Jenny Lake Trail
- Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
- Amphitheater lake trail
- String Lake Loop
Final Thoughts
There you have it, our list of the 8 best hikes in Grand Teton National Park. No matter which hikes you choose in Grand Teton National Park, be sure to come prepared with proper gear, plenty of water, and bear spray. Respect the park’s rules and regulations, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the beauty of this incredible national park for future generations!
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