Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park for Adventure Enthusiasts

Grand Teton National Park is a favourite destination for adventurers due to its arresting mountain panoramas and breathtaking scenery.

From easy day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking trips, it offers a wide range of hiking trails for all skill levels.

However, it's hard to decide which trails to explore first. To help you make the most of your time, we’ll give an overview of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park.

The 10 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

Venturing into the heart of the Grand Teton National Park is an experience like no other. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the Park offers a diverse range of trails.

With its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, it's no wonder why hiking in this National Park is regarded as one of the top outdoor activities.

1. Cascade Canyon Trail

The Cascade Canyon Trail is a longer hike, stretching for about 9 miles round-trip. This track runs through a subalpine forest, which provides shade and coolness during the hot summer months.

The first part of the track takes hikers through the jungle before reaching a junction with the West Rim Trail. From here, hikers continue along a steep path to Cascade Pass.

Hikers can also take a side trail from Cascade Pass to visit Chute Lake, which provides hikers with access to other routes. This pathway is not very challenging, and most hikers can do it.

2. Paintbrush Canyon Track

Paintbrush Canyon is a beautiful, secluded canyon in Grand Teton National Park. This is located on the western side and offers stunning views of Mount Moran and the surrounding peaks. Additionally, it is perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

The trail starts on a paved path and becomes more primitive when you get closer to the canyon.

You might find snow and low temperatures in this area, so be ready and bring snowshoes if you’re hiking during the winter.

The hike is a bit hard, with an elevation gain of 400 ft and 19 miles round-trip length, but the pretty views make it worth it.

3. Phelps Lake Trail

Phelps Lake Trail gives you a new perspective on Grand Teton National Park. Starting at Jenny Lake’s east end, it winds through alpine meadows and takes you to a plateau where you can see Mount Moran and Mount Owen.

Furthermore, it is a bit straightforward, but some sections can be steep. It's a great hike to see recognized sights in the park without getting lost or tired.

This track is 1.5 miles long and takes around 45 minutes. All in all, this pathway is considered moderately challenging.

It takes hikers on a loop around Phelps Lake, offering stunning views of the lake, the Teton Range, and the surrounding forests.

4. Amphitheater Lake Hike

The Amphitheater Lake Trail is one of the most popular hiking tracks in Wyoming, USA. It is approximately 9.5 miles round trip and is elevated about 9,600 feet.

This trail begins at Lupine Meadows Trailhead and ascends through dense forests. As hikers climb higher, the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys become more stunning.

Eventually, it leads to Amphitheater Lake, a glacial lake in a cirque surrounded by towering peaks. The trail can be challenging for beginners.

Hikers should bring plenty of water, food, and appropriate hiking gear. Moreover, they must be prepared for changing weather conditions.

5. Death Canyon Hike

Backpackers and hikers love this trail due to its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. The trail starts at an elevation gain of around 6,800 feet and climbs steadily through the canyon.

It is accessible to hikers of all skill levels. The first few miles of the trail are relatively easy and take hikers through open meadows and dense forests.

Ultimately, it becomes steeper and more challenging. Hikers will need to navigate switchbacks and rocky terrain.

After hiking for a few miles, hikers will reach Death Canyon Shelf, a high alpine meadow that offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range.

From there, hikers can continue to the summit of Alaska Basin Trail or head back down the canyon.

6. Lake Solitude Trail

This 16-mile long trail is located at the Jenny Lake Trailhead. Hikers will begin by hiking along the Jenny Lake Trail for approximately 2 miles before turning onto the Cascade Canyon Trail.

From there, the trail ascends through Cascade Canyon, passing stunning views of the Teton Range, including Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, and Grand Teton.

After hiking approximately 4.8 miles, hikers will reach Lake Solitude, a beautiful alpine lake at an elevation gain of 9,035 feet.

Hikers can return the way they came or continue on the loop trail that descends through the North Fork of Cascade Canyon and back to the Jenny Lake Trailhead.

7. Delta Lake Loop

It is accessible via the Lupine Meadows Trailhead south of the park. Next, hikers will follow the Garnet Canyon Trail, which ascends steeply up the canyon.

The trail is rocky and challenging but offers arresting views of the Teton Range and the surrounding wilderness.

Rugged mountain peaks surround the lake. Delta Loop Track is known for rock climbing and mountaineering. However, these routes are only for experienced climbers with the necessary skills and equipment.

8. Garnet Canyon Hike

The trailhead is located at the south end of Jenny Lake, and the trail winds its way up through the canyon to Lupine Meadows. It is a 7-mile long round-trip and takes 4-6 hours to complete the hike.

The Garnet Canyon Trail is a strenuous hike but is well worth the effort. The views from the top of the trail are breathtaking.

Additionally, it is an excellent way to observe the magnificent Teton Mountains. This trail is an ideal way to experience the stunning scenery of the park and wildlife.

9. Bradley Lake Track

The following hike starts at the Taggart Lake Trailhead, about 2.3 miles north of the Moose Entrance Station. It goes to two of the six lakes formed by glaciers at the base of the Teton Range.

Hikers can enjoy beautiful lake views, surrounding mountains, and the Cascade Range. After completing the loop, you can go back towards Taggart Lake Trail.

Bradley Lake trail is well-maintained and has a moderate difficulty level with an elevation of 6,600 feet.

10. Teton Crest Trail

The Teton Crest Trail is a famous backpacking trail that spans over 40 miles through the Grand Teton Range.

It takes hikers through some of the most stunning and remote wilderness areas, including high alpine passes, subalpine forests, and scenic valleys. 

The trail starts at Phillips Pass on Teton Pass and ends at String Lake near Jenny Lake. Here, hikers observe breathtaking views of the Teton Range, pristine alpine lakes, and wildlife.

The Teton Crest Trail is challenging due to its high altitude, steep ascents and descents, and unpredictable weather.

Bottom Line

With towering peaks and pristine glaciers, the park offers some of the best hikes. From challenging treks to gentle walks, there’s something for everyone.

In addition, it's not just the natural beauty that draws visitors. The park is home to wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, bald eagles and bison. So, don’t wait any longer.

Grab your gear, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the best hikes in Grand Teton.

FAQs Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park