11 Epic and Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park [2023]
Of all of the national parks in the United States, Grand Teton National Park is one of the most beautiful, and for hikers, is a paradise.
Between the wildlife, incredible mountain views, and the trails available for hikers of all skill levels, the Tetons are great for everyone.
On this list, you’ll find the best easy hikes in Grand Teton National Park that are suitable for beginners, as well as advanced hikers who want something more relaxed.
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Best Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
With so many epic hikes found in Grand Teton National Park, it can be hard for beginners to decipher which trails are best suited for you.
But, good news! There are so many trails within the park that are family-friendly and great for new hikers.
Here I’ll cover the 11 best trails in Grand Teton National Park that are perfect for beginners, kids, and people of all skill levels.
I’ve also added alternate routes and options to extend your hike if you decide to do so.
1. Hidden Falls
Distance: 1.1 miles
Elevation Change: 187 feet
Estimated Time: 30 minutes-1 hour (plus time for the shuttle)
The hike to Hidden Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the entirety of Grand Teton National Park, and for good reason!
To reach the trailhead, you’ll need to take the shuttle across Jenny Lake.
For a roundtrip ticket, the shuttle costs $18 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the Jenny Lake Boating dock.
You can find the boating dock near Jenny Lake Campground, right off of the main park road.
Once you’ve arrived at the trailhead, you’ll hike about 0.5 miles before reaching the impressive Hidden Falls. Then another 0.5 miles back.
There is a bit of elevation change on this hike, but it’s pretty minimal and because of how short it is, it’s still a good option for beginner hikers.
Even if you have young kiddos with you, this is the perfect choice for a nice trail to see a beautiful waterfall.
This is definitely one of the more popular hikes in the park, so I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Alternate Route: If you’d prefer not to take the shuttle, you can start your hike at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and follow the Jenny Lake Loop trail.
In total, this route will be about 4.9 miles. It’s also a bit flatter than the above hike.
Once you’ve reached Hidden Falls, head back to the parking lot the same way you came.
2. Taggart Lake Loop
Distance: 3.8 miles
Elevation Change: 450 feet
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Taggert Lake is another great option with fantastic views of the mountain range behind a lake.
The trail starts right off of Teton Park Road at the Taggart Lake Trailhead.
At the start, you’ll face a bit of incline, but after that, the trail levels out for an easy hike to the lake.
If you prefer to get the elevation out of the way immediately, head counterclockwise. You’ll have an easier hike back to the parking lot this way.
Once you arrive at Taggart Lake, you’ll have phenomenal views of Grand Teton and Middle Teton.
One of the best things to see at this lake is the reflection of the Tetons in Taggart Lake. It’s amazing!
Extend: If you’re up for a bit more challenge, you can continue on to Bradley Lake. This adds on about 3 more miles and an extra 300 feet in elevation gain.
3. Jenny Lake Loop
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Change: 700 feet
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
The Jenny Lake Loop is a popular hike that brings you along the shores of the marvelous Jenny Lake, with fantastic mountain views.
You’ll start at the String Lake Trailhead, near the Jenny Lake Lodge, and will set out on the Jenny Lake Loop Trail.
You can also choose to start near the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
Most of the hike runs right along Jenny Lake, with phenomenal views of the Teton mountain range.
You can go either counterclockwise or clockwise, either direction is great!
While this is a bit longer than other hikes on this list, it’s fairly flat for the entirety of the hike, so it’s well-suited for beginners.
You won’t experience much elevation change on the Jenny Lake Loop.
I definitely advise arriving early for this one, especially during peak tourist season because it’s a very popular area.
If you arrive in the middle of the day, you may struggle to find a parking spot, which can be a real bummer.
Because this one is a bit longer, you can turn it into the perfect day hike in Grand Teton National Park.
Extend: To add a little extra to this hike, make a stop at Hidden Falls or Inspiration Point on the way.
This will add about an extra mile or so.
4. Inspiration Point
Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation Change: 410 feet
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours (plus time for the shuttle)
Inspiration Point is another popular hike that can be reached by taking the Jenny Lake boating shuttle across the lake.
This trail is typically paired with Hidden Falls for a fantastic short hike in GTNP but can be done by itself as well.
After reaching the trailhead via the Jenny Lake shuttle, you’ll hike for just under a mile out to the Inspiration Point lookout.
Enjoy the absolutely amazing views of Jenny Lake and the distant mountain ranges.
You’ll be able to see for miles. It’s truly one of the most incredible lookouts in the park!
As I mentioned above, on your way back to the trailhead, swing by Hidden Falls to make the most of your hike.
Though there is some elevation change on this hike, it’s one of the best short hikes in Grand Teton National Park and is worth the views.
In less than 2 hours, you’ll have seen some of the best views in Wyoming!
Alternate Route: Similarily to Hidden Falls, if you don’t want to take the shuttle, begin at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
From there, follow the Jenny Lake Loop trail. This will make the hike closer to 5.5 miles.
5. Schwabacher’s Landing
Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation Change: 30 feet
Estimated Time: 1 hour
This busy trail starts at the Schwabacher’s Landing Trailhead. It’s popular and heavily trafficked for a reason!
I personally think that this is one of the best trails to get great views of the Teton mountain range without having to put in a ton of effort.
Once you reach the end of the trail, you’ll be met with amazing reflections of the Tetons in the Snake River.
If you’re up for it, do this hike for sunrise. You’ll have incredible views of the sunlight bouncing off of the mountains.
Plus, there will be far fewer people than in the middle of the day.
And at just under 2 miles round trip, it’s the perfect trail for even first-time hikers and kids.
Because it follows the Snake River, you won’t see much elevation gain at all.
6. Mormon Row and Moulton Barn
Distance: 0.2 miles
Elevation Change: 0 feet
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
If you’ve ever seen pictures of Grand Teton National Park, you’ve most likely seen the Moulton Barn.
This picturesque wooden barn sits right in front of the Teton mountain range and is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the national park.
To get to Moulton Barn, you really don’t have to hike much at all, which is what makes it such a perfect spot to stop!
Simply park along Mormon Row Road and walk to the barn.
It’s one of the shortest and easiest hikes in Grand Teton National Park and is perfect for people of all levels, including those who can only walk very limited distances.
You hardly even need to get out of the car to see the view of the Teton range behind the barn.
While you’re nearby, explore the rest of Mormon Row Road and experience the history within this district.
This is the perfect spot to get that ‘Instagram-worthy’ shot!
7. Phelps Lake Overlook
Distance: 2 miles
Elevation Change: 400 feet
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
Found at the southern end of the park, Phelps Lake Overlook is a great easy hike with a beautiful viewpoint.
This short and non-challenging hike is perfect for beginner hikers and advanced hikers alike, giving you a worthwhile view.
The trail starts at the Death Canyon Trailhead. From there, follow the Valley Trail until you reach Phelps Lake Overlook.
You’ll be met with incredible views of the entire lake, as you stand over 500 feet above it, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Along the hike, you’ll have glimpses of the Teton mountain range.
On the way back to the parking lot, follow the same trail back.
8. Leigh Lake
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation Change: 100 feet
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours
There are so many fantastic lakes within Grand Teton National Park that are all so great for beginners to hike to.
Leigh Lake is another one of them.
Don’t let the distance of this hike scare you. It’s an out-and-back trail, so you’re able to choose when to turn around.
Starting at the String Lake Trailhead, head north on the String Lake trail until it turns into the Leigh Lake trail.
For the entirety of this hike, you’ll follow the shoreline of Leigh Lake with the Teton mountain range towering in the background.
I personally love hikes that have views for the entire trail rather than just one viewpoint, so if you’re like me, you’ll love this one.
The hike is very flat, even though it is longer, which makes it great for those looking for an easier trail that will fill your day.
9. Moose Ponds Trail
Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation Change: 150 feet
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
For a low-elevation hike around two ponds with great views of the mountains, head to the Moose Ponds trail.
Parking for this trail can be found near the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
You’ll likely pass a very busy section of hikers headed onto the Jenny Lake ferry. Continue on and keep an eye out for signs that will lead you to Moose Ponds.
This easy hike follows Jenny Lake for the beginning before branching off and looping around Moose Ponds.
The trail will also cross a river that flows into both ponds before carrying on.
Not too far into the hike, you’ll cross a wooden footbridge that has amazing views of Teewinot Mountain.
Hence the name, this trail winds through the perfect habitat to spot moose, so keep your eyes open!
You may also spot other animals such as black bears and marmots.
Moose Ponds is definitely one of the least crowded hikes in the park, so if you’re looking to escape the crowds, this is where to go!
10. The Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Change: 100 feet
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
The largest lake in the park is Jackson Lake, which boasts some fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Starting at the Colter Bay Visitor Center, you’ll start this very easy and short hike on the Lakeshore Trail.
You’ll circle around a wooded peninsula that juts out into Jackson Lake, around Colter Bay.
In the distance, the Teton mountain range towers.
Portions of this trail are paved, while the rest of it is a dirt trail.
Most of the trail is in the woods until you reach a rocky beach area that has outstanding views of the Teton Mountains.
After you’ve spent your time admiring the view, you’ll loop back around and head back toward the parking lot, in the opposite direction.
Spend some time admiring the special views around Jackson Lake before continuing your day in the park!
11. Lunch Tree Hill
Distance: 0.5 miles
Elevation Change: 100 feet
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
This very easy and short trail in Grand Teton National Park is perfect for those staying at the Jackson Lake Lodge.
Or, for those looking for an educational and easy hike.
The Lunch Tree Hill trail is where John D. Rockefeller often rested for lunch and viewed the Tetons. He played a large part in creating this national park.
Back in the early 1900s, Rockefeller purchased over 30,000 acres of land and then donated it to help establish the park.
Along the hike, there are informational signs that will give you some great historical facts about the area.
You’ll also have amazing views of the prairie and the Teton mountain range in the distance.
So if you’re looking for a nice short and easy hike, look no further than Lunch Tree Hill.
Other Day Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
If you’re looking for a bit more to fill your day, then you may want to check out some of these other trails within the park.
These ones may be a bit more challenging, but if you’re up for it, they’re worth the effort!
This is my personal favorite trail in GTNP. It leads you through the woods, up the mountains, and to a beautiful, teal alpine lake.
It’s a longer trail and requires some scrambling at some points, but she’s a beauty!
Paintbrush Canyon
One of the more popular hikes in the park, leading you up through jagged mountain peaks and along a strenuous route.
Lake Solitude
The name is definitely wrong, as this lake won’t bring you any solitude because of its popularity.
But it will bring you to a beautiful alpine lake with the opportunity to spot some epic wildlife!
What is the Easiest Hike in the Grand Tetons?
Choosing the best easiest hike in Grand Teton National Park is tough because the park is filled with fantastic hikes for beginners as well as advanced hikers.
For the best views of the Teton mountain range, the best hike is Schwabacher’s Landing.
This hike is short, flat, and has absolutely incredible views of the Grand, Middle, and South Teton peaks, especially at sunrise.
You won’t have to walk very far to get the phenomenal views, and the elevation gain is minimal, making for a great hike.
Coming in at a close second, the Taggart Lake Trail is another of the most popular trails in the park and is great for beginners.
Here you’ll see the most impressive reflections of the mountains in Taggart Lake.
This hike is also very easy, but there is a bit more elevation change.
What is the Best Hike in the Park for Kids?
Most of the trails on this list are suitable for kids, but Leigh Lake Trail, in particular, will be the best for your little ones.
For kiddos that may enjoy parts of the hike but get tired after a few miles, the Leigh Lake trail makes it easy to turn around whenever you want.
It’s an out-and-back hike and has the option to hike up to 7 miles.
It’s also very flat, so your kids won’t have to climb much elevation. But you’ll still get great views of the mountains.
Leigh Lake is very family-friendly.
What is the Best Hike in the Grand Tetons for Wildlife?
There really is no way to decide exactly which hike is the best to spot wildlife on in the Grand Tetons because animals go where they choose.
But, you can look at the habitat of a hike and try to decipher which animals may live there.
Moose Ponds is a great area for spotting moose, as the hike is in a swampy area, where moose like to hang out.
For bears, you may see them on any trail or you could spot them in a field while driving by.
You really just have to keep your eyes open, no matter where you are, because wildlife is everywhere!
When is the Best Time to Hike in the Grand Tetons?
To see the most wildlife, have all trails open, and have great weather, you should plan to visit Grand Teton between July and September.
Outside of these months, there is typically snow on the ground and the temperatures are starting to drop.
But, if you choose to visit at another time, the park is typically open year-round.
Summer
During July and August, most trails are open for use and wildlife are roaming around the park.
Daily highs average around 75° F and it rarely gets below 40° F.
Warm temperatures make for the best times to hike in Wyoming, so definitely plan your visit for this time!
But, in the summer months, crowds are also high. Expect to see a lot of other people hitting the trails.
Snow can sometimes even run into early July in the park. So be prepared for this.
Fall
For the best hiking and the least crowds, September and early October are your best bets.
There won’t be as many people, as the temperatures are starting to get cooler.
But with an average high of 65° F, the weather is still perfect for people looking to hike.
You’ll also have a high chance of seeing wildlife because the animals are moving around and getting ready for winter.
Tips for Visiting Grand Teton National Park
Hiking in one of the country’s most popular parks can be a great experience for everyone, as long as you’re aware of a few things.
Here are some must-know tips for hiking in Grand Teton National Park.
Fees
Just like most other national parks, Grand Teton charges an entrance fee.
For a car, you can spend 7 days in the park with a $35 weekly pass.
The best choice is America the Beautiful pass, which grants you access to all national parks in the United States, as well as several national sites, for an entire year.
The cost is $80 per year. It’s well worth the money if you plan to visit more than 3 parks in a year.
You can purchase it online or at the entrance gate of most national parks.
Wildlife Safety
Grand Teton National Park is located in bear country. You may see black or grizzly bears on your visit.
Aside from bears, other potentially dangerous wildlife that lives in the park includes moose, wolves, bison, and elk.
All of these animals should be admired from a distance. Give bears and wolves at least 100 yards, and all other animals at least 25 yards.
It’s also recommended to carry bear spray when hiking in bear country, which you can grab here!
Weather
Whenever you’re in the mountains, it’s important to understand that the weather can be unpredictable, so you can be prepared for all sorts of instances.
Pack extra clothing, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. And always tell someone where you’re going.
Avoid visiting the park when inclement weather is more likely. The summer months are best for visiting.
Also always be aware of park closures due to weather. Visit this page for current conditions and closures within the park.
Maps
Typically you can find park maps at visitor centers or entrance stations of the park.
You also can download a map to your phone by clicking here.
Because of the limited service in the park, I recommend downloading this before you arrive.
As for trail maps, I will always recommend All Trails. There is an extensive list of trails available for download to use while hiking.
The pro plan is about $30 per year and is absolutely worth it.
FAQs
Are There Bears in Grand Teton National Park?
Yes, there are both black bears and grizzlies in the park.
Always understand how to safely hike in bear country and carry bear spray with you on every trail.
How Many Days Should I Spend in the Tetons?
I personally recommend spending at least 2 days in Grand Teton National Park.
If you have more, take them! There is so much to explore that you’ll be able to fill every single day.
Plus, if you have extra time, hop up into Yellowstone!
Is Hiking Better in Yellowstone or Grand Teton?
Both national parks are absolutely phenomenal, but are vastly different!
Yellowstone is known for its beautiful geysers and hot springs while the Tetons are known for their mountain hikes.
I personally think that there’s more actual hiking in the Tetons and more “view pointing” in Yellowstone.
To see the best views in Yellowstone, it’s usually a pretty easy walk from the car, whereas in GTNP, you’ll likely need to do more hiking.
Where is Grand Teton National Park?
The national park is located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, near Jackson.
Conclusion: Easy Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
There are so many incredible hikes in all national parks, and Grand Teton is no exception.
Even for beginners, there are beautiful places to get out and explore the wilderness.
Whether you’re looking for epic mountain views or just wandering around a lake, there is a great easy hike in Grand Teton National Park for you.
