Garnet Canyon hike
View PhotosGarnet Canyon hike
Difficulty Rating:
The Garnet Canyon Hike in Grand Teton National Park is the easiest canyon hike in the Tetons. This trail will give you a taste of what longer day hikes in the Tetons have to offer. Don’t worry, the views here are no smaller than those on other canyons.
Getting there
From Colter Bay drive south along the John D. Rockefeller Parkway, turning right onto Teton Park Rd. Keep going along Teton Park Rd. for approximately 14.0mi then turn right (west) at the Lupine Meadows Junction. Alternatively, from Moose, drive 6.8mi north and turn left at the Lupine Meadows Junction. You will continue along Lupine Meadows Rd. until it ends.
About
When to do | June through October |
Backcountry Campsites | Yes |
Toilets | Trailhead |
Family friendly | No |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Out and back |
Garnet Canyon
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Garnet Canyon
You access this hike via a gravel road with some potholes, however all two-wheel drive vehicles should be able to make it. Go slow! This parking lot is very busy as many mountaineers and climbers use it to access fun routes past both Amphitheater Lakes and Garnet Canyon. Get here early, or be prepared to have to walk for a while to get to the trailhead.
The trailhead is at the end of the road, where there are pit toilets. The first part of the hike remains flat, but you will quickly start the “meat and potatoes” of the climb. For nearly 3.1mi the trail switchbacks through the forest, occasionally popping out from the trees with views down across the valley. You will also be able to see Bradley and Taggart Lakes below you.
There is an abundance of wildlife along this trail. Some of the adorable animals include chipmunks, squirrels, grouse and marmots. However, along some of long switchbacks we did see a mother bear with two cubs – the most dangerous bear one can see. Take heed if you are hiking by yourself, and try to stick close to other groups.
At the first junction you will arrive at points towards Bradley and Taggart Lakes. Continue right towards Amphitheater Lake and Garnet Canyon. After numerous switchbacks you will find yourself at another junction. Go left and head towards Garnet Canyon. You will climb a little more, but the vast majority of your climbing is done, and nothing but good views remain.
Continue up along the right-hand ridge of Garnet Canyon until you reach a large boulder field and a stream. This is the end of the official trail. Across the stream is a very pleasant backcountry campground, and surrounding you are stunning mountains. Across the valley you will be able to see Shadow Peak, Nez Perce, and Cloudveil Dome. At the back of the valley with a jagged peak running down the middle will be Middle Teton, the third highest mountain in the Tetons!
Insider Hints
This hike can get very hot, especially on the climbs, so bring a lot of water and start early!
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HikerNolifer 4 years ago
Lovely views of the canyon. Great climb to beautiful views
Jane Watkinson 4 years ago
Good hike with similar great views of the Canyons.
MamaBear 4 years ago
This trail is best to do with friends. Moderately challenging but fulfilling.
Minerva Y. 5 years ago
It wasn't an easy way up, but the views and lunch at the campground made it worth it!
Benny Aster 5 years ago
Very scenic and challenging hike. Not so many people on the trail.
Carmilla Shzm 5 years ago
Lots of outstanding views around the canyon! We saw some marmots along the way. Aren't they the most adorable creatures?
Harold P. 5 years ago
Absolutely beautiful hike, we wanted the Grand Teton experience, and we got it here! So satisfied with the journey.
hikingbunny 5 years ago
This hike has an incredible terrain. Enjoyed the surrounding peaks and the wonderful views.
Kristina Norm 5 years ago
I had a great day out with my friend. A really good hike to see the canyons.
Sebo 6 years ago
Nice hike, not too hard, had a great day at the Garet Canyon