hikes in Grand Teton National Park

The Grand Teton Mountains form the backdrop for many of the hikes in Grand Teton National Park, creating a stunning snow-capped mountain-scape that stretches far away into the distance. Covering 310,000 acres, this expansive national park is littered with amazing hiking and backpacking trails, passing along flower-studded ridges, through deep, forest-clad ravines, and alongside serene, glittering lakes.

Grand Teton National Park is very popular with families due to the many opportunities for wildlife spotting along the trail, and Grand Teton hikes are a great way to see large animals such as bison, elk, moose, and deer. The park is also populated by black and grizzly bears, wolves and mountain lions, but these are typically much more elusive and encounters with hikers are relatively rare. This incredible, delicate ecosystem sustains a tremendous variety of living creatures and visit here is a great opportunity to learn, observe, and enjoy.

Grand Teton National Park is a land of natural wonders, and the ideal place for a hiking trip! Read on to find out all our favorite Grand Teton hikes, and why we think this part of Wyoming is one of the best places for hiking in the US.

10 Great Hikes In Grand Teton National Park

Whether you’re looking for an epic day hike, a multi-day trek or a gentle stroll in some pleasant scenery, Grand Teton National Park has something to offer everyone. Although it’s known for its dominant, imposing peaks, Grand Teton National Park is packed with easy, family-friendly routes, many of which pass alongside beautiful lakes where you can stop for a swim or a picnic. On the other hand, if you’re a novice hiker looking to up your game, there are lots of moderate and advanced trails that will stretch your abilities, test your fitness, and help you prepare for longer, challenging hikes. Whatever Grand Teton hikes you ultimately choose, this incredible park has charm and beauty in abundance, and you’ll never tire of looking out over its amazing mountain views.

• Summit Trail JHMR Hike: Want to experience the beauty of the Tetons without working up too much of a sweat? Take the aerial tram up to the summit trail at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and you’ll catch some incredible views. This is a good option for families, as the Summit Trail provides fabulous scenery and is suitable for kids.
• Colter Bay Hike: This part of Wyoming may be known for challenging, epic routes, but there are also plenty of excellent family hikes in Grand Teton National Park! This gentle, easy hike will take you along the shores of Jackson Lake at Colter Bay, offering a wonderful vista of the Tetons. Take your time to admire the view and skim a few stones on the peaceful waters of the lake.
• Lake Solitude Hike: This stunning route to Lake Solitude is one of the classic day hikes in Grand Teton National Park. The trail passes along the Cascade Creek, with opportunities for a quick diversion to see the beautiful Hidden Falls. Once you rise above the tree line you’ll be treated to a stunning ridge walk and broad alpine meadows filled with flowers. The views at the lake are simply magnificent, and make this long day hike well worth the effort.
• Paintbrush Divide Hike: The Paintbrush Divide is one of the most iconic and challenging hikes in Grand Teton National Park. This is a full day hike that requires plenty of energy, but the rewards are simply spectacular. Beginning at the pretty String Lake, the views just get better and better as you ascend Paintbrush Canyon, passing by clusters of huckleberry trees and delicate wild flowers. However, it’s the vista from the pass that will really take your breath away – the perfect place to admire the thrilling majesty of the mountains.
• Hanging Canyon Hike: This magnificent route is, without doubt, one of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park. Less popular than the hike to Lake Solitude, you’re likely to have the trail all to yourself, meaning that you can fully appreciate the splendor of the Grand Teton Range. The trail climbs steeply, passing through woodland, boulder fields, and a wildflower-studded ravine, before emerging at the glittering Lake of the Crags.
• Phelps Lake Hike: This lovely route around Phelps Lake is perfect for families and those looking for a laid back hike in Grand Teton National Park. The trail is slightly undulating but not too strenuous, and there are plenty of places to stop for a picnic, a swim, or simply to admire the views. Don’t miss the beautiful white sandy beaches and diving spots at the boulders on the north side of the lake.
• Garnet Canyon Hike: The Garnet Canyon Hike is ideal for visitors looking for a good introduction to canyon hiking, as it’s a relatively easy trail that certainly packs a punch when it comes to the views. The trail rises through the canyon, where you’re likely to encounter plenty of chipmunks, squirrels, marmots and grouse. Make sure to bring lots of water, as this trail can be particularly hot and exposed in summer!
• Amphitheater Lake Hike: As the name suggests, Amphitheatre Lake is a stunning, peaceful alpine lake, encircled by tall grey rocks. This tranquil spot is the destination for one of the most popular Grand Teton hikes, and it’s easy to see why. The views from the top are simply magnificent, taking in Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot Mountain.
• Inspiration Point Hike: If you’re looking for a fun, moderate hike suitable for newcomers to Grand Teton National Park, look no further than the beautiful Inspiration Point hike. The trail is secluded and not too strenuous, offering gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. The route passes alongside Cascade Creek, offering photo opportunities galore, and you can adapt the length of the hike to your fitness and ability levels.
• Grand View Point Trail: Looking for the best view in Grand Teton National Park? This short, easy trail will take you all the way to Grand View Point, an aptly named spot with arguably the best view in the whole of Grand Teton. Take in the majesty of the mountains as you gaze on all the Teton peaks, including Grand Teton itself, Mount Owen, and the rest of the Teton Range. Don’t forget your camera, and come at the end of the day for the best light for photos!

When Is The Best Time To Hike In Grand Teton National Park?

The best time to hike in Grand Teton National Park is between mid-May and late-September, when most of the trails will be accessible and facilities will be open. It’s common to experience afternoon thunderstorms in July and August, so many hikers aim to come here in June, when the snows have finally cleared and the weather is fine. This is a wonderful time to visit, but the trails may be crowded, so if you’re looking for a little solitude, plan your Grand Teton hikes for September when the leaves begin to turn, illuminating the park in vibrant golden colors. By October, the winter snows cloak Grand Teton in a layer of thick snow that makes hiking difficult, but you’ll still find plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing and winter sports.

Other Outdoor Activities In Grand Teton National Park

If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, this corner of Wyoming is a wonderful place to visit. In addition to the many Grand Teton hike son offer, you’ll find plenty of other fantastic outdoor activities in Grand Teton National Park. Why not take advantage of the many campgrounds and plan a backpacking trip, or try your hand at rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, or wildlife watching? Don’t forget to check the regulations with the local rangers, as you may need a permit for some activities, such as backcountry camping. In winter, the park is covered with a thick blanket of snow, making skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing popular options. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Grand Teton National Park.

How To Plan A Trip To Grand Teton National Park

Is Grand Teton National Park on your hiking bucket list? If you’re dreaming of satisfying trails in beautiful landscapes, use our guide to planning a trip to Grand Teton National Park to make your trip a success. We’ve all the information you’ll need, including advice on when to go, where to visit and what kind of equipment you’ll need for the trail. For hiking route suggestions, check our top ten Grand Teton hikes. Don’t delay – grab those hiking boots and hit the trail!

Frequently-Asked-Questions About Grand Teton National Park

Can you hike up Grand Teton?

There are multiple routes to the summit of Grand Teton, but they all involve climbing. This should not be attempted unless you are an experienced climber (or with an accredited guide), and are fully equipped with all the necessary safety equipment.

Do you need bear spray in Grand Teton?

The Grand Teton ecosystem sustains both grizzly bears and black bears, and it’s possible that you’ll meet some of these creatures along the trail. It’s important to come prepared, ideally with bear spray, and to make sure you know what to do if you see a bear. Local park rangers can offer helpful advice depending on which particular trail you choose.

Can you drive through Grand Tetons?

There are a number of roads that traverse Grand Teton National Park, and it’s possible to drive along a 42-mile scenic loop that will provide you with fabulous views of the park’s wonderful scenery. Beginning in Moose, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop at the lakes, waterfalls, and viewing points that can be found around the park.