Cascade Canyon, a glacially carved u-shaped canyon, passes between Teewinot and Mount St. John to provide easy access into the Teton backcountry. This out-and-back trail is a popular option with visitors who want to get into the mountains without gaining a significant amount of elevation. While following Cascade Creek, the trail provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including the Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot. This trail also provides an opportunity to spot wildlife like moose and bears, as well as some of our alpine species like pika. While the trail continues 4.4 miles (7.1 km) back into the canyon before splitting, you may stop and find a turning point at any time, making the trail as long or as short as you would like.
Details
Duration
5-8 Hours
Cascade Canyon is accessible via the Jenny Lake Loop Trail (14.6 miles roundtrip) or by taking the shuttle boat to shorten the hike (8.8 miles roundtrip). If you are planning on using the shuttle boat, check their hours and prices. Tickets are purchased directly at the boat dock.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
A general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park.
Location
Jenny Lake
Park at Jenny Lake for access to the Cascade Canyon Trail.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
Cascade Canyon often holds snow until early-mid summer. Check conditions before attempting Cascade Canyon in the spring. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt Cascade Canyon unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Cascade Canyon Trail is 4.4 miles (7.2 km) one way with a 991 ft total elevation gain from the West Boat Dock of Jenny Lake
The hike to the first bridge with a view of Cascade Creek and its cascading waterfalls is fairly level with a set of stone steps gaining 65 ft over 0.2 miles (0.3 km).
The trail to Inspiration Point features multiple sets of stone steps and bridge crossing from the edge of Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point. No stair rail or handholds are available in the exposed last set of steps to Inspiration Point. Beyond Inspiration Point the trail gradually climbs over 500 ft crossing small streams and rock slides with numerous ups and downs. The trail surface is crushed rock and dirt.
The hike to the first bridge with a view of Cascade Creek and its cascading waterfalls is fairly level with a set of stone steps gaining 65 ft over 0.2 miles (0.3 km).
The trail to Inspiration Point features multiple sets of stone steps and bridge crossing from the edge of Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point. No stair rail or handholds are available in the exposed last set of steps to Inspiration Point. Beyond Inspiration Point the trail gradually climbs over 500 ft crossing small streams and rock slides with numerous ups and downs. The trail surface is crushed rock and dirt.
Last updated: January 27, 2021