Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park: 10 Trails for Every Level
14 min read · Updated April 2026
Why Hike in Grand Teton?
Grand Teton packs more vertical drama per mile than almost anywhere in North America. The Tetons rise 7,000 feet straight from the valley floor with no foothills — creating one of Earth's most dramatic mountain frontages.
From Lodgepole Pines Retreat in Island Park, the park's trailheads are just 1.5–2 hours away — an easy day trip. This guide covers 10 of the best hikes. If you've already explored Yellowstone's best trails, these belong on your list.
1. Cascade Canyon
| Distance | 9.1 mi RT (with boat shuttle) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,100 ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Time | June – October |
The crown jewel of Teton hiking. Take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle ($20 RT) across the lake, then hike up through a glacially carved canyon. Stop at Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point before continuing into the canyon. Moose, black bears, and pikas are common. Arrive before 9 AM.
2. Lake Solitude
| Distance | 14.4 mi RT (with boat) |
| Elevation Gain | 2,240 ft |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best Time | Mid-July – September |
An extension of Cascade Canyon to a stunning alpine lake at 9,035 feet. The lake often holds snow into late July. Start early (6–7 AM). Carry bear spray.
3. Paintbrush Canyon & the Loop
| Distance | 19.2 mi (full loop with boat) |
| Elevation Gain | 3,800 ft |
| Difficulty | Very Strenuous |
| Best Time | Late July – September |
One of the top day hikes in the United States. The loop crosses Paintbrush Divide at 10,720 feet with 360° panoramic views. A 12+ hour commitment for fit hikers. Trekking poles and microspikes essential early season.
4. Delta Lake
| Distance | 7.4 mi RT |
| Elevation Gain | 2,260 ft |
| Difficulty | Strenuous (scramble) |
| Best Time | July – September |
A turquoise alpine lake in a glacial cirque beneath the Grand Teton. The "trail" involves off-trail scrambling — NOT for beginners. Navigation apps essential.
5. Death Canyon
| Distance | 7.8 mi RT (to patrol cabin) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,360 ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Time | June – October |
One of the most scenic and least crowded hikes. The historic Death Canyon Patrol Cabin (1938) sits in a wildflower meadow. Strong hikers can continue to Static Peak Divide (10,790 ft).
6. Avalanche Canyon & Shoshoko Falls
| Distance | 10 mi RT |
| Elevation Gain | 2,800 ft |
| Difficulty | Strenuous (off-trail) |
| Best Time | July – September |
A true backcountry adventure with no maintained trail. Shoshoko Falls cascades beneath Mt. Wister. Very few visitors — you may have it to yourself.
7. Taggart & Bradley Lakes
| Distance | 5.8 mi loop |
| Elevation Gain | 590 ft |
| Difficulty | Easy–Moderate |
| Best Time | May – October |
The ideal first hike in Grand Teton. Two glacial lakes backed by the full Teton Range. Perfect for families with kids. Opens earlier in spring than most alpine routes. Combine with Mormon Row.
8. String Lake Loop
| Distance | 3.7 mi loop |
| Elevation Gain | 200 ft |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Best Time | June – September |
The most family-friendly trail. String Lake's shallow, sun-warmed waters are the park's best swimming spot. Parking fills by 9 AM in July/August.
9. Two Ocean Lake
| Distance | 6.4 mi loop |
| Elevation Gain | 400 ft |
| Difficulty | Easy–Moderate |
| Best Time | June – October |
A hidden gem on the quieter east side. Meadows explode with wildflowers in late July. Great for wildlife watching — grizzlies, moose, and cranes are regularly spotted.
10. Garnet Canyon
| Distance | 8.4 mi RT |
| Elevation Gain | 2,000 ft |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best Time | July – September |
The approach route for Grand Teton climbers. Even non-climbers can enjoy the hike to the Meadows at 10,000 feet. An unforgettable experience connected to the history of Grand Teton.
Hiking Tips & Gear
Start Early
Parking fills by 8–9 AM in July/August. Aim for 6 AM.
Carry Bear Spray
Grizzlies are common in all Teton canyons. Keep it on your hip belt.
Layer Up
Valley floor 80°F can drop to 40°F at passes. Bring a warm layer and rain jacket.
Water & Food
Carry 2–3 liters minimum. No water for sale on trails.
Trail Conditions
Check Jenny Lake Ranger Station. Snow lingers on high passes into late July.
Jenny Lake Boat
Book the first boat at 7 AM. Saves 4 miles of flat walking.
Trail Comparison
| Trail | Distance | Gain | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| String Lake | 3.7 mi | 200 ft | Easy |
| Taggart & Bradley | 5.8 mi | 590 ft | Easy–Mod |
| Two Ocean Lake | 6.4 mi | 400 ft | Easy–Mod |
| Death Canyon | 7.8 mi | 1,360 ft | Moderate |
| Cascade Canyon | 9.1 mi | 1,100 ft | Moderate |
| Delta Lake | 7.4 mi | 2,260 ft | Strenuous |
| Garnet Canyon | 8.4 mi | 2,000 ft | Strenuous |
| Avalanche Canyon | 10 mi | 2,800 ft | Strenuous |
| Lake Solitude | 14.4 mi | 2,240 ft | Strenuous |
| Paintbrush Loop | 19.2 mi | 3,800 ft | Very Stren. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hike in Grand Teton?
Cascade Canyon for scenery and accessibility. The Paintbrush–Cascade loop for a world-class challenge.
How far is Grand Teton from Island Park?
About 1.5–2 hours south. Jenny Lake trailhead is ~100 miles from Island Park.
Do I need a permit?
Day hiking is free (park entrance $35/vehicle). Backcountry overnight requires a permit.
When is the best time to hike?
Mid-July through September. High passes may have snow into July. Wildflowers peak late July.
Are there bears?
Yes — grizzly and black bears. Carry bear spray and make noise on trail.
⚠️ Trail conditions, shuttle schedules, and fees may change. Check nps.gov/grte before your visit.
Related Guides
- Best Things to Do in Grand Teton
- Yellowstone Day Hikes: 10 Best Trails
- Jackson Hole Day Trip from Island Park
- When Do Grand Teton Roads Open?
- Best Sunrise & Sunset Spots
- Where to See Bears in Yellowstone
