Hiking

 

Hiking trails in Grand Teton provide spectacular views of the range.

NPS Photo/J. Tobiason

 

Learn More:

• Safety in Bear Country
• Backcountry Camping
• Backcountry Permits
• Climbing & Mountaineering
• Stock Use

Go for a Hike

Grand Teton offers incredible hiking opportunities, and with over 250 miles of trails to choose from, there are options ranging from short walks to backcountry excursions. Stop at a visitor center to talk to a ranger about the best trail options for you and the latest trail conditions.

Hike Smart

Hiking in Grand Teton National Park can be a challenging experience due to the rugged nature of the landscape, including high elevation, steep trails, and extreme and sudden weather changes.

• High elevation may cause breathing difficulties. Pace yourself and carry extra water.

• Snow melts gradually, leaving valley trails snow-free by mid-June. Mountain trails and passes may not be snow-free until late July. Be careful crossing snowfields and streams. Do not attempt steep snow unless you have previous experience and the proper equipment.
• Be bear aware. Black and grizzly bears live throughout the park. While hiking in the park, make noise, hike in groups of three or more, and carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Carry drinking water. Dehydration is common and can be serious.
• Be prepared for rapid weather changes. Carry rain gear and extra layers.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Solo hiking, off-trail hiking, and trail running are not recommended. The use of headphones is strongly discouraged.
• Use a topographic map for backcountry hiking. Maps are sold at park bookstores.

 

Things to Know

• All overnight camping in the backcountry requires a permit. Visit our backcountry camping page to learn more.
• Carry out all of your garbage.
• Hike on established trails to prevent erosion.
• Stock (horses, mules, burros, and llamas) has the right-of-way. Step off the trail on the uphill side and wait quietly while stock passes.
• Pets, bicycles, and vehicles are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
• Backcountry sanitation: To prevent waterway contamination, bury human waste in a hole 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water. Pack out used toilet paper, tampons, sanitary napkins, and diapers in sealed plastic bags. Do not bury or burn any materials. Special rules apply in Garnet Canyon.

Parking Tips

• During most summer and fall months trailhead parking areas fill early in the day, especially at Jenny Lake, String and Leigh Lakes, Lupine Meadows, Death Canyon, and Granite Canyon. Be flexible; plan for alternate hikes.
• Start your hike early to maximize parking availability.
• Parking on natural vegetation results in permanent damage to plants, a fine, and may start a fire. Obey posted parking regulations.

 

 

 

 

 

Additional Park Information