Jenny Lake Trail
Grand Teton National Park, Grand Teton National Park, WY, 83414
A highlight of Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, the Jenny Lake area is characterized by thundering waterfalls, canyons, mountain vistas, and the crystalline expanse of Jenny Lake itself. The lake trail runs 7.1 miles (11.4 kilometers) around the water’s edge and passes by Hidden Falls, Cascade Canyon, and Inspiration Point. It’s a must-do for any trail-lover in Grand Teton.
The Basics
Most tours of Grand Teton National Park include at least a portion of the Jenny Lake Trail, whether you opt to explore on a full-day, morning, or sunset excursion. Day trips to Grand Teton typically leave from the towns of Jackson Hole or Jackson and allow you to see Jenny Lake along with park highlights, such as Oxbow Bend and Jackson Lake.
Most tours include a meal and round-trip transportation. To explore Grand Teton National Park at your own pace, opt for a self-guided tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Jenny Lake Trail is a must-see for nature lovers.
Wear shoes suitable for hiking, dress in layers, and bring sun protection.
The area is home to both grizzly and black bears, so be sure to make noise when out on the trail and leave no trace of food or trash behind.
A shuttle boat crosses the lake from the visitor center to a dock on the lake’s western shore, which allows you to see Hidden Falls after just 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) of hiking.
How to Get There
Jenny Lake sits at the base of the Tetons at an elevation of 6,800 feet (2,073 meters) from the town of Jackson. You can visit via private vehicle or opt for a guided tour to avoid the hassle of parking.
When to Get There
Summer, when the weather is typically warm and sunny, is the most popular time to visit. Parking at South Jenny Lake can fill up quickly, so arrive early in the morning to score a spot. The area is accessible by car from May through October.
Jenny Lake Trail Options
The most popular variation of the Jenny Lake Trail starts with a shuttle boat ride across the lake from the visitor center to a dock on the western shore. From here, a moderately steep, 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) hike leads to thundering Hidden Falls, before continuing up Cascade Canyon toward aptly named Inspiration Point. While the trail connects with overnight trails, day hikers most often turn back and return via the southwestern shoreline.
Ways to explore
Most tours of Grand Teton National Park include at least a portion of Jenny Lake and the Jenny Lake Trail, whether you opt to explore on a full-day, morning, or sunset excursion. Day trips to Grand Teton typically leave from the towns of Jackson Hole or Jackson and allow you to see Jenny Lake along with park highlights, such as Oxbow Bend and Jackson Lake.
Most tours include a meal and round-trip transportation. To explore Grand Teton National Park at your own pace, opt for a self-guided tour.
Accessibility
Jenny Lake Trail is not accessible—it’s natural terrain. The paved pathway near the Jenny Lake Visitor Center offers limited accessible views of the lake.
Age limits
There are no age restrictions, but the trail isn’t suitable for small kiddos.
What to pack
Bear spray, plenty of water, trail snacks, first-aid kit, map, fully charged phone, trekking poles, sunscreen
What to wear
Sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, warm fleece or jacket (even in summer), rain gear, hat/sunglasses
Not allowed
Feeding or approaching wildlife, camping outside designated backcountry sites, drones without special permits, littering, removing plants
Amenities
The Jenny Lake Visitor Center has restrooms, exhibits, and ranger assistance, plus a boat shuttle dock.
Address
Jenny Lake sits in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, along Teton Park Road. The trailhead is easily accessed from the busy, well-marked Jenny Lake area, and there are multiple parking options.
Driving
From Moose Junction, follow Teton Park Road to Jenny Lake. There’s parking at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, String Lake Trailhead, and East Shore Boat Dock. Arrive early—lots fill by 8–9am in the summer.
Public transportation
There is no extensive public transit, but the Grand Teton Lodge has a guest shuttle, as does Jackson Hole Mountain Resort—though the latter only goes to nearby Teton Village.
Best times to visit
Come before 8am to secure parking and enjoy cooler temperatures and better wildlife-viewing opportunities. Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting on the Tetons, though parking becomes challenging again.
Best days to visit
Weekdays tend to be less crowded—avoid visiting in the summer and over holiday weekends, if you can.
Best months to visit
July through September are the best months for snow-free hiking and wildflower displays, though it’s September that really shines for golden aspen foliage and fewer crowds.
Special events
There are no festivals at Jenny Lake itself, but consider visiting during the Grand Teton Music Festival in Jackson (July–August) or after elk mating season (September–October) when park visitation decreases.
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