Grand Teton National Park protects over 700 miles of trails where jagged peaks meet pristine valleys, offering some of the most reliable long distance hiking in the Rocky Mountains. This printable trail guide highlights 15 epic hikes that range from short lakeside walks to remote backcountry traverses.
Use this resource to plan day trips or multi night adventures, with mileage, elevation gain, and seasonal notes designed for quick reference on the trail.
| Hike Name | Region | Distance (round trip) | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jenny Lake Loop | Near Jackson Lake Lodge | 7.1 mi | 690 ft |
| Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point | Jenny Lake area | 5.4 mi | 500 ft |
| Paintbrush Canyon | Teton Crest | 17.5–19 mi | 2,700 ft |
| Owl Creek Pass | Southwest of park | 11 mi | 1,700 ft |
| Teton Crest Trail to Major | High Country | 12–14 mi | 3,000 ft |
| Granite Canyon | Moose-Wilson Road | 9.7 mi | 1,200 ft |
| Amphitheater Lake | Garfield Peak trailhead | 5.1 mi | 750 ft |
| McGowan Pass | Teton Ridge | 7.2 mi | 1,000 ft |
| Death Canyon | Alaska Basin access | 7.5–11 mi | 1,200–1,800 ft |
| Alaska Basin Trail | Remote wilderness | 12.6 mi | 2,200 ft |
| Cascade Canyon | String Lake area | 9–12 mi | 900–1,700 ft |
| Lake Solitude | North Cascade Canyon | 7.8 mi | 1,700 ft |
| Garnet Canyon to Amphitheater | Near Teton Village | 7.2 mi | 1,600 ft |
| String Lake to Whaleback Pass | Teton Ridge | 7.8 mi | 1,700 ft |
| Valley Trail along the Snake River | Flat terrain near park | 20 mi (segment options) | 400 ft |
Wildlife and Safety Considerations on Grand Hikes
Bear Aware Trails
Many of the 15 epic hikes in Grand Teton National Park traverse prime wildlife habitat where grizzly and black bears are active, especially in early morning and dusk.
Carry bear spray, travel in groups, and make noise in dense forest or blowout terrain to reduce surprise encounters on routes like Paintbrush Canyon and Teton Crest Trail.
Weather and Route Planning
Above treeline exposure on ridges such as Teton Crest and Whaleback Pass creates rapid weather shifts that can include high winds, hail, and sudden temperature drops even in summer.
Check forecasts, start early, and be prepared to turn back if storms develop, particularly on long days like the 17 to 19 mile Paintbrush Canyon traverse.
Family Friendly and Easy Hikes
Short Lakeside Walks
For travelers with children or limited time, lakeside strolls around Jenny Lake and shorter segments of the Valley Trail provide relatively flat walking and iconic mountain views.
Hidden Falls offers a moderate 5.4 mile round trip with rewarding waterfall scenery while remaining accessible for fit families.
Paved and Gravel Options
Sections of the Valley Trail along the Snake River are suitable for casual walkers and cyclists, with gentle grades and ample opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Garnet Canyon to Amphitheater Lake delivers stunning scenery with a manageable 7.2 mile round trip, making it a popular choice for first time visitors to the park.
Remote and Advanced Adventure Hikes
High Alpine Traverses
Experienced hikers seeking solitude often target long routes such as Paintbrush Canyon, Alaska Basin Trail, and the Teton Crest route to Major, where ridges remain largely above 10,000 feet.
These trails demand strong navigation skills, backcountry camping proficiency, and readiness for high elevation conditions.
Off Trail Exploration
Certain regions reward adventurous hikers with cross country travel through glacial valleys and alpine basins, though route finding can be challenging and travel restrictions may apply during sensitive wildlife periods.
Use topographic maps, GPS devices, and local ranger briefings to plan responsible off trail journeys in areas like Owl Creek Pass and remote segments of the Alaska Basin.
Planning and Logistics for the 15 Epic Hikes
Permits and Regulations
Day hiking in Grand Teton National Park generally does not require a permit, but backcountry camping, designated wilderness entries, and parking reservations may be necessary depending on trailhead popularity and season.
Trailhead Access and Parking
Several trailheads, including those for Cascade Canyon, Garnet Canyon, and Amphitheater Lake, fill quickly in peak summer, so arrive early or consider shuttle services from park partners in Jackson.
Season and Conditions
Snow can linger in high passes into July, while fall color along the Valley Trail and lower ridges typically peaks in late September, offering clear skies and fewer crowds for day hikes.
Use This Guide for Safer, Smarter Hiking in Grand Teton
- Check current trail conditions and weather before starting any hike.
- Carry sufficient water, layered clothing, and navigation tools for all routes.
- Store food properly and maintain awareness of wildlife, especially in bear country.
- Start early to maximize daylight and reduce exposure to afternoon storms.
- Obtain necessary permits and respect trail closures to protect fragile alpine environments.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are dogs allowed on the 15 epic hikes in Grand Teton National Park printable trail guide?
Dogs are permitted on most trails in Grand Teton National Park but must be leashed at all times, and they are not allowed on most park trails above treeline, including sections of Teton Crest Trail and Paintbrush Canyon.
What is the best time of year for these hikes?
July through early September offers the most reliable conditions for high elevation hikes, while spring and fall are better suited for lower elevation routes like the Valley Trail and lakeside walks around Jenny Lake.
Can I camp along these trails?
Designated backcountry campsites are available on longer routes such as Alaska Basin Trail and portions of Teton Crest, but advance wilderness permits are required and campfires may be restricted during high fire danger.
How accurate are the mileage and elevation data for planning day trips?
Distances and elevation gains provided in the guide are field measured and rounded to the nearest 0.1 mile or 10 feet, suitable for planning and navigation, though actual conditions can vary with detours and route choices.