Trip Idea

Hikes at Leigh Lake

Multiple Parks

Waves crash on the shore of a clear, blue lake at the base of a mountain range.
Waves crash on the shore of Leigh Lake.

NPS Photo/A. Falgoust

The Leigh Lake Trailhead offers access to several easy-very strenuous trails. To access trails, drive down the Teton Park Road and turn at the North Jenny Lake Junction. Follow signs for Leigh Lake. The Leigh Lake parking lot commonly fills in mid-summer. Arrive before 9am to guarantee a parking spot.

Multiple hikes from Leigh Lake include access to backcountry campsites. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry.

Always be prepared when hiking in Grand Teton. Carry water for every member of your group, be alert to your surroundings, and understand your limitations on distance and elevation gain. Several trails from Leigh Lake can hold snow until mid-July. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt trails unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment. Wildlife—such as bears—is commonly active in the area. Never approach a wild animal. To check current trail conditions and bear activity, stop at a visitor center to talk with a ranger.
Key for the above map. Green = Easy Light Blue = Moderate Blue = Moderately Strenuous Dark Blue = Strenuous Dark Gray = Very Strenuous
Day and Overnight Hikes
  • Grand Teton National Park

    Leigh Lake

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: No
    • Location: String Lake
    • Duration: 1–2 Hours
    • Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day, Dawn, Dusk
    Waves crash on the shore of a clear, blue lake at the base of a mountain range.

    Take an easy day or overnight hike to Leigh Lake for less crowds and mountain views.

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  • Grand Teton National Park

    Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: No
    • Location: String Lake
    • Duration: 4–6 Hours
    • Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    A small lake surrounded by green vegetation and trees.

    Hike along the shore of Leigh Lake for panoramic views of Mount Moran.

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  • Grand Teton National Park

    Holly Lake

    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Hiking
    • Pets: No
    • Location: String Lake
    • Duration: 7–9 Hours
    • Season: Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    An alpine lake sits at the base of a rocky cliff surrounded by green vegetation.

    Hike to an alpine lake on this strenuous day or overnight hike up Paintbrush Canyon.

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Last updated: June 13, 2025