Adventure Journal: Summertime High Country Hikes

As summer wanes and snowpack retreats from the upper canyons, Grand Teton National Park's high country opens for exploration. More than 300 miles of well-maintained trails wind through the park, carrying hikers and equestrians to alpine lakes, soaring mountain passes, and the rugged terrain that defines the Teton Range. Whether you're planning a long day out or a multi-day backcountry adventure, read on for some of our favorite routes into the heart of the peaks.

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‍PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Cascade Canyon Paintbrush Canyon Loop

19.3 miles 4,133 feet of elevation gain

Topping this list is a favorite of many visitors and is considered to be the classic Teton overnight…. This route brings you through multiple habitats including riparian areas, boulder fields, and alpine lakes. Dramatic views of the Cathedral Group and numerous waterfalls and cascades await. Crossing Paintbrush Divide, which separates the two canyons, often involves snow travel so experience using an ice axe and crampons may be necessary. Be sure to check-in with a park ranger for the most up-to-date conditions before starting your journey. This hike can be done in one long day or you can choose to camp in a designated camp zone in either canyon. All overnight camping in Grand Teton requires a backcountry permit, which can be purchased at any park visitor center or ranger station.

Marion Lake

14.4 miles 3,838 feet of elevation gain

This deep blue lake at the head of Granite Canyon sits at 9,250 feet and welcomes hikers with a mixture of riparian and sub-alpine areas to explore. Given the remoteness of this lake, it is common for hikers to ride the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort aerial tram before beginning the hike. It is often the beginning of many backpackers' trek along the iconic Teton Crest Trail, but can be easily turned into one long day or a single overnight in one of the forks of Granite Canyon. Mileage depends on your route, but be advised that the trail splits at roughly 8 miles in, near a park service patrol cabin.

Cascade Canyon to Hurricane Pass

23.3 miles 4,120 feet of elevation gain

For those looking for a long day with constant mountain views, this out and back adventure may be the right fit for you. Parking at South Jenny Lake fills fast in summer, your best bet is arriving before 9:00 am or waiting until after 4:00 pm, as the lot is one of the most competitive in the park. The trail begins in Cascade Canyon, one of Grand Teton's most beloved corridors, before veering onto the quieter South Fork. Here the canyon gradually opens up, trading the crowds for sweeping alpine scenery. As you gain elevation and crest the pass, the landscape delivers: the pale blue-green waters of the lake beside Schoolhouse Glacier come into view, and the iconic silhouette of the three Tetons stretches across the western horizon.

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Holly Lake

13 miles 2,775 feet of elevation gain

This 13-mile out-and-back packs plenty of reward into 7 to 7.5 hours on trail. The route climbs alongside a cascading stream, with views of the Paintbrush Divide opening up as you gain elevation. At the top, Holly Lake sits tucked beneath the rugged slopes of Mount Woodring, a glacial lagoon surrounded by some of the park's best wildlife habitat. Keep your eyes open for bears, moose, elk, marmots, and pikas on the way up.

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Surprise and Amphitheater Lakes

10.3 miles 3,011 feet of elevation gain

Climbing from the Lupine Meadows trailhead into an alpine basin, the Surprise and Amphitheater Lakes Trail ranks among the finest day hikes in the park. Two glacial lakes await at the top, framed by the jagged Teton skyline and the towering presence of Disappointment Peak at 11,617 feet. Hikers looking to extend the day can easily tag nearby Delta, Bradley, or Taggart Lakes, or venture deeper into the range via Garnet Canyon.

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Teton Crest Trail

40.3 miles 9,101 feet of elevation gain

One last option for the most ambitious Teton backcountry enthusiasts is the forty-mile-long Teton Crest Trail. Traversing ridge lines and high mountain meadows, the Crest Trail is a desired goal for thousands of hikers each year. Much of this trail was constructed in the early 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and it remains largely intact. Running from Teton Pass to Paintbrush Canyon, this route promises continuous 360-degree views of the Teton Range, as well as impressive views of other nearby ranges such as the Gros Ventre, Absaroka, Wind River, and Wyoming ranges. If you are looking for an opportunity to live in the high country for a few days, the Teton Crest Trail is for you!

Always remember that weather and conditions in the mountains can and do change rapidly and you must be prepared for everything, no matter what time of year. Have a plan, be safe, and don't forget your bear spray!