Leigh Lake Trailhead

The majestic view of Leigh Lake from the trail.

NPS

Quick Facts

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Restroom

Leigh Lake Trailhead provides hikers a wide variety of options from easy level trails to access to mountain passes. Some may opt for the relatively level trail that begins along the east shore of String Lake and extends north to Leigh, Bearpaw and Trapper lakes. Others may enjoy a loop around String Lake with views of the Jackson Hole valley. For those looking for a longer hike, venture up Cascade or Paintbrush canyons to reach the alpine lakes such as Lake Solitude or Holly Lake.

Suggested Hikes

Leigh Lake
1.8 miles RT, 1 hour, 40 ft total climbing, Easy.
Hike along the east shore of String Lake, pass the bridge across a stream and climb to Leigh Lake.

Trapper Lake
9.2 miles RT, 5 hours, 400 ft total climbing, Easy-Moderate.
From String Lake, follow forested shore of Leigh Lake to smaller lakes with views of Mount Moran.

Holly Lake
13.0 miles RT, 9 hours, 2600 ft total climbing, Strenuous.
Follow Paintbrush Canyon trail through forests and wildflowers meadows to an alpine lake.

Location

Access the Leigh Lake Trailhead from the Jenny Lake scenic loop drive. Turn west at North Jenny Lake Junction, bend north where the road splits and choose from a series of parking lots. The first parking lot is the String Lake Trailhead. The second lot serves as a boat launch for String Lake. The third lot provides access to the Leigh Lake Trailhead and the String Lake Picnic Area. Check the parking page for additonal information.
Note, the Teton Park Road is seasonally closed to this destination from November 1-April 30. 

Things to Know

This area is popular for picnicking and water sports. Parking is often congested mid-day especially on weekends. Restrooms are located near the Leigh Lake trailhead. Remember to bring water with you.

Bears may be active any place and at any time-travel in groups, make noise and carry bear spray.

Backcountry camping requires a permit-pick one up at a backcountry permits office. Overnight parking is only allowed with a backcountry permit, no camping in parking lot.

Name Origin

Richard "Beaver Dick" Leigh was a British expatriate who moved to the Teton area in 1863 as a fur trapper. He married Jenny a Shoshone Indian and they had five children. Jenny and Beaver Dick assisted the 1872 Hayden expedition - he as their guide, she with camp logistics. The Hayden Expedition named Jenny and Leigh lakes in their honor.