Thing to Do

Phelps Lake Overlook

A lake surrounded by trees as viewed from above.
Hikers are rewarded with views of Phelps Lake and the valley from the overlook.

NPS Photo/C. Adams

Take an easy, out and back hike to an overlook for views of Phelps Lake. The trail travels through a forested section before opening up at the Phelps Lake Overlook. The overlook places hikers high above Phelps Lake and provides views of the lake and valley. Those looking to access Phelps Lake will need to continue another mile down to the lakeshore.
Details
The Phelps Lake Overlook is an easy, 2 mi (3.2 km) RT out and back hike with 470 ft (140 m) of elevation gain.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park.
Park at the Death Canyon Trailhead for access to the Phelps Lake Overlook Trail. The Death Canyon Trailhead is located one mile down a rutted, dirt road. The road is not recommended for vehicles with low clearance. Exercise caution when driving down the Death Canyon Road and pull fully off of the road if parking on the shoulder. 
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
The Phelps Lake Overlook is an easy, 2 mi (3.2 km) RT out and back hike with 470 ft (140 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 11%. The trail gains elevation approaching the overlook, and includes obstacles such as exposed roots and rock.

Grand Teton National Park

Last updated: August 2, 2023