Last updated: November 27, 2023
Thing to Do
Marion Lake
NPS Photo/J. Bonney
Moose-Wilson Road Construction
The Granite Canyon Trailhead will be closed to all access during 2022 except for winter use due to Moose-Wilson Road Construction. Seek alternative trails or trailheads when planning a hike.
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead OPEN 2022
Hike from the Teton Village base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails, or take the Aerial Tram (fees apply), to start this strenuous hike to Marion Lake. From the summit, the trail follows the ridgeline down to the Middle Fork of Granite Canyon with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and meadows full of bright wildflowers during the growing season. The trail ascends and descends several ridges before arriving at Marion Lake. Stop and rest at this spectacular alpine lake before making the return trip to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. Return via the North and South Forks of Granite Canyon to complete this loop hike. Trails are not recommended for hiking until snow has melted, usually by late July.
Granite Canyon Trailhead CLOSED 2022
Head back into Granite Canyon for a strenuous hike to Marion Lake. Starting from the Granite Canyon Trailhead, hikers will follow Granite Creek as they travel up through the canyon. The trail takes visitors through dense forests and open fields that are bright with wildflowers in early summer. Once in Upper Granite Canyon, the trail opens up to reveal stunning views of the surrounding peaks and canyon below. Stop and rest at Marion Lake – a spectacular alpine lake – before making the return trip.
Details
Duration
9-13 Hours
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 14.7 mi (23.7 km) RT loop hike with 3,990 ft (1,220 m) of elevation gain.
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 18.8 mi (30.3 km) RT out and back hike with 3,510 ft (1,070 m) of elevation gain.
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 14.7 mi (23.7 km) RT loop hike with 3,990 ft (1,220 m) of elevation gain.
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 18.8 mi (30.3 km) RT out and back hike with 3,510 ft (1,070 m) of elevation gain.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
A general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park. A fee is charged to ride the Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. (Discounted when purchased online in advance.)
Location
Granite Canyon Trailhead or Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Park in the Ranch Lot at Teton Village and hike from the base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails or take the aerial tram (fees apply).
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Park at the Granite Canyon Trailhead for access to the Marion Lake Trail.
Park in the Ranch Lot at Teton Village and hike from the base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails or take the aerial tram (fees apply).
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Park at the Granite Canyon Trailhead for access to the Marion Lake Trail.
Reservations
No
Permits are required for those planning to stay overnight in the backcountry. Visit the backcountry page to learn about obtaining a permit.
Season
Summer, Fall
Marion Lake is best accessed in summer after the snow melts, and in fall before the first snow arrives. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt Marion Lake unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 14.7 mi (23.7 km) RT loop hike with 3,990 ft (1,220 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 11%.
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 18.8 mi (30.3 km) RT out and back hike with 3,510 ft (1,070 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 8%.
The trail is often narrow, steep, and includes steps and switchbacks.
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 14.7 mi (23.7 km) RT loop hike with 3,990 ft (1,220 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 11%.
Granite Canyon Trailhead
Marion Lake is a very strenuous, 18.8 mi (30.3 km) RT out and back hike with 3,510 ft (1,070 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 8%.
The trail is often narrow, steep, and includes steps and switchbacks.