Trailborn Jackson Hole Blog
The Best Hiking Trails in Jackson Hole for Every Skill Level
Jackson Hole is one of the best hiking destinations in the American West.
Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Teton Range, the valley offers everything from easy lakeside walks and family-friendly nature trails to challenging alpine routes that climb high into the mountains. Whether you’re looking for a short morning hike before brunch, a scenic half-day adventure, or an all-day trek into the backcountry, you’ll find no shortage of hiking trails in Jackson Hole.
The best part is the variety. One day you can be walking beside a crystal-clear alpine lake, and the next you can be climbing through wildflower meadows toward panoramic mountain views.
From Grand Teton National Park to the trails surrounding Jackson itself, this guide covers some of the best hikes in Jackson Hole for every experience level.
Why Jackson Hole Is One of America's Best Hiking Destinations
Few places offer the diversity of hiking found in Jackson Hole.
Within a short drive, hikers can explore mountain lakes, river valleys, wildlife-rich meadows, dense forests, alpine basins, and rugged mountain terrain. The valley is also the gateway to Grand Teton National Park, home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America.
Summer and early fall are particularly popular, with snow-free trails, blooming wildflowers, active wildlife, and comfortable hiking conditions throughout much of the region.
No matter your experience level, there are Jackson Hole hikes suited to every type of adventurer.
Easy Hiking Trails in Jackson Hole
Not every hike needs to be an all-day challenge.
These trails offer incredible scenery with relatively modest effort, making them ideal for families, casual hikers, or visitors looking to balance hiking with other Jackson Hole activities.
Taggart Lake Trail
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
If you’re searching for the best hikes in Jackson Hole, Taggart Lake usually appears near the top of the list.
The trail begins in Grand Teton National Park and winds through forests and open meadows before arriving at a beautiful alpine lake framed by the Tetons. Along the way, hikers often spot wildflowers, mule deer, and occasionally moose.
The combination of manageable distance and spectacular views makes Taggart Lake an excellent introduction to Grand Teton hiking trails.
String Lake Loop
Distance: 3.7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
String Lake is one of the most family-friendly hiking trails in Jackson Hole.
The route follows the shoreline of a shallow, crystal-clear lake beneath the Tetons, with numerous spots to stop, swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the scenery. The trail remains relatively flat throughout, making it accessible for hikers of all ages.
During summer, it’s also a popular place to paddleboard and kayak.
Moose Ponds Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
For wildlife enthusiasts, Moose Ponds offers one of the best opportunities to spot animals while enjoying a short hike.
Located near Jenny Lake, the trail passes through forested terrain and wetland areas that frequently attract moose, beavers, and a variety of bird species.
Early morning and evening hikes tend to offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Moderate Hiking Trails in Jackson Hole
These hikes require a little more effort but reward visitors with some of the most iconic views in the region.
Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point
Distance: 4 to 6 miles depending on route
Difficulty: Moderate
This is arguably the most famous hike in Grand Teton National Park.
Visitors can either hike around Jenny Lake or take the seasonal shuttle boat across the water before continuing to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
Hidden Falls tumbles through a rocky canyon surrounded by pine forest, while Inspiration Point offers sweeping views across Jackson Hole.
For many visitors, this hike perfectly captures what makes Grand Teton hiking trails so special.
Bradley and Taggart Lakes Loop
Distance: 5.7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Combining two beautiful alpine lakes into one route, this trail provides a slightly longer alternative to the standard Taggart Lake hike.
The loop passes through forests, meadows, and lakeshore terrain while offering consistent views of the Teton Range.
Wildflowers are particularly impressive during mid-summer.
Two Ocean Lake Loop
Distance: 6.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Often overlooked by first-time visitors, Two Ocean Lake offers a quieter hiking experience compared to some of the park’s better-known trails.
The loop circles a scenic lake surrounded by forest and mountain views, with frequent opportunities to spot wildlife along the shoreline.
For visitors looking to escape the busiest areas of the park, this trail is worth considering.
Challenging Hikes for Experienced Adventurers
For hikers seeking bigger climbs, alpine lakes, and unforgettable views, Jackson Hole offers plenty of options.
Cascade Canyon Trail
Distance: 9 to 15 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Cascade Canyon is often considered one of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park.
After passing Jenny Lake and Inspiration Point, the trail enters a dramatic mountain canyon surrounded by towering peaks and rugged cliffs.
Wildlife sightings are common, particularly moose, marmots, and mountain goats.
The further you venture into the canyon, the quieter and more spectacular the scenery becomes.
Delta Lake Trail
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Challenging
Delta Lake has become one of the most sought-after hikes in Jackson Hole, and for good reason.
The final destination is a stunning turquoise alpine lake sitting directly beneath Grand Teton, Teewinot Mountain, and Mount Owen.
The trail includes steep sections, rocky terrain, and some route-finding near the end, making it better suited to experienced hikers.
The views, however, are among the most spectacular in Wyoming.
Amphitheater Lake Trail
Distance: 10 miles round trip
Difficulty: Challenging
For hikers willing to earn their views, Amphitheater Lake delivers one of the most rewarding alpine experiences in the Tetons.
The trail climbs steadily through forest before reaching a dramatic high-elevation lake surrounded by rugged peaks and rocky cliffs.
The elevation gain is significant, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile.
Hiking Near Jackson Without Entering the National Park
While Grand Teton National Park receives much of the attention, there are excellent hiking trails closer to Jackson itself.
Snow King Mountain
Located directly above downtown Jackson, Snow King offers convenient hiking access without requiring a drive into the park.
Trails range from moderate climbs to more challenging summit routes, all providing excellent views across the valley.
Visitors staying at Trailborn Jackson Hole are just minutes from the trailhead.
Cache Creek Trail
A favorite among locals, Cache Creek offers a network of hiking routes that extend deep into the surrounding wilderness.
The area is particularly popular for morning hikes, trail running, and wildlife viewing.
Josie's Ridge Trail
For a shorter but steeper workout, Josie’s Ridge rewards hikers with panoramic views over Jackson Hole.
Despite its relatively short distance, the climb can be surprisingly challenging, making it a popular option for visitors looking for a quick adventure.
Hiking Safety Tips for Jackson Hole
The mountains around Jackson Hole are wild and unpredictable.
Before heading out, remember to:
- Carry plenty of water
- Check weather conditions before starting
- Wear appropriate hiking footwear
- Bring layers, even during summer
- Stay on designated trails
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife
- Start early for longer hikes
Afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly during summer months, particularly at higher elevations.
When Is the Best Time to Go Hiking in Jackson Hole?
The primary hiking season typically runs from late June through early October.
July and August provide the warmest temperatures and the greatest access to high-elevation trails, while September offers cooler conditions, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall colors.
Snow can remain on higher routes well into early summer, so always check current trail conditions before setting out.
Staying Close to Jackson Hole's Best Hiking Trails
The best hiking trips start with a convenient basecamp.
Located at the base of Snow King Mountain, Trailborn Jackson Hole places visitors within easy reach of Grand Teton National Park, local trail networks, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures throughout the valley.
After a day exploring alpine lakes, canyon trails, and mountain viewpoints, rest and relax in comfortable rooms or fully unwind in ember lily spa. After, enjoy dinner at Old Timer Bar & Restaurant, and relax before the next day’s adventure.
Whether you’re planning your first Jackson Hole hiking trip or returning to tackle new trails, Trailborn offers an ideal home base for exploring some of the best hiking trails in Wyoming.
Book your stay at Jackson Hole today and start planning your hiking adventure
FAQs
Taggart Lake, Cascade Canyon, Delta Lake, and Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point are consistently ranked among the best hikes in Jackson Hole.
Yes. Taggart Lake, String Lake, Moose Ponds, and sections of Jenny Lake offer excellent hiking experiences for beginners and families.
Some of the most popular Grand Teton hiking trails include Cascade Canyon, Delta Lake, Taggart Lake, Amphitheater Lake, Hidden Falls, and Inspiration Point.
Yes. Bear spray is strongly recommended for all hikes in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park. Visitors should also know how to use it properly before heading out.
Many hikers consider Cascade Canyon and Delta Lake among the most scenic hikes in Grand Teton National Park due to their dramatic mountain views and alpine landscapes.
Late June through September generally offers the best hiking conditions, with accessible trails, warmer temperatures, and long daylight hours.
