Emma Matilda Lake Loop Hike

Discover the beauty and diversity of this lively natural sanctuary along the Emma Matilda Lake Loop. While long, the terrain along this route is manageable by most, though smaller children and novice hikers may have trouble circumnavigating the entirety of the lake. Make sure to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated, and don’t forget a can of bear spray—just in case. Additionally, the bugs along this trail are relentless, so bring bug spray along and layer as necessary! Note the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Your lakeside stroll begins from the Christian Pond Loop Trailhead off North Park Road. Setting out from here, the path will intersect with the North Park Road before diverting into the wilderness to an intersection. Here, veer left onto the Christian Pond Spur Trail and hike this route north, ultimately reconnecting with the Christian Pond Loop Trail. Eventually, you will confront an intersection with the Emma Matilda Loop Trail, take the leftmost path and begin your clockwise loop around the perimeter of the lake.

Demanding a steep incline from the junction, the path will summit a ridge that boasts impressive views of the Teton Mountains. Mind your footing on roots and rocks obstructing the path as you descend the ridge. Traveling between exposed meadows and shaded woodlands, you will also be granted expansive views of the shimmering lake that occupies the landscape. After circumnavigating the lakeshore, reconnect with the Christian Pond Loop Trail and backtrack all the way to the trailhead.