Explore Grand Teton’s Jenny Lake.
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Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park is a beautiful spot surrounded by the peaks of the Teton Range. Known for its clear waters and great views, this glacial lake offers a gateway to some of the park's best landscapes. Whether you're up for a stroll by the shore, a scenic boat ride, or hitting the hiking trails, Jenny Lake has something for everyone.
What to See and Do at Jenny Lake.
You can spend a whole day at Jenny Lake. There's plenty to do. Here are some highlights:
Scenic Boat Tours Across Jenny Lake: Hop on a boat shuttle across Jenny Lake for a convenient and scenic way to explore Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy the views of the Teton Range and the lake.
Best Hiking Trails at Jenny Lake: Jenny Lake is a starting point for several hiking trails for all skill levels. Check out the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Trail, the Cascade Canyon Trail, or the trek to Lake Solitude.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Look out for wildlife around Jenny Lake. You might see birds, squirrels, and sometimes even moose or deer.
Photography at Jenny Lake: Jenny Lake is perfect for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset. The lake’s reflections add to the beautiful setting.
Fishing in Jenny Lake: You can try your luck fishing for native cutthroat trout in Jenny Lake. Just make sure you have the required permits and follow the rules.
Jenny Lake Visitor Center: Visit the Jenny Lake Visitor Center to learn about the area's history and nature. The center offers ranger-led programs and current information on trails and activities.
Boating and Kayaking on Jenny Lake: Bring your kayak or non-motorized boat to explore Jenny Lake at your own pace. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the water.
Hiking at Jenny Lake.
Here are some of the best hiking options around Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park:
Hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point
Distance: About 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Start with a scenic boat ride across Jenny Lake. The hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point offers great views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Trek the Cascade Canyon Trail
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Highlights: The Cascade Canyon Trail takes you deeper into the Teton Range, with lots of peaks and canyons to see. You can choose how far you want to go based on your fitness level and time.
Challenge Yourself with the Lake Solitude Hike
Distance: About 15 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: For a tougher hike, head to Lake Solitude. You’ll pass through Cascade Canyon and see alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the serene lake.
Enjoy a Family-Friendly Walk on the String Lake Loop
Distance: About 3.8 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: This family-friendly hike around String Lake offers beautiful views of the Teton Range reflected in the clear waters.
Discover the Leigh Lake Trail
Distance: About 7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Enjoy a quieter hike to Leigh Lake, with serene lake views and fewer crowds.
Explore the South Jenny Lake Trail
Distance: About 7.5 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This trail circles the southern portion of Jenny Lake, offering varied terrain and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Take a Peaceful Stroll on the East Shore Trail
Distance: About 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: The East Shore Trail is a peaceful hike along the eastern shore of Jenny Lake, with occasional glimpses of the Teton peaks through the trees.
The Boat Across Jenny Lake: A Must-Do Adventure.
The boat across Jenny Lake isn’t just transportation—it’s part of the adventure. Operating from late May to September, the boat shuttle offers a scenic journey across the glacial waters of Jenny Lake, saving you a two-mile hike.
Boat Shuttle Fees:
Adult Round-trip (12 yrs to 61 yrs): $20.00
Child Round-trip (2 yrs to 11 yrs): $12.00
Senior Round-trip (62 yrs and over): $17.00
Don't Forget Your Passport To Your National Parks Book.
Before you leave, visit the Jenny Lake Visitor Center gift shop to get your Passport To Your National Parks Book stamped. If you don’t have a passport book, consider getting one. They’re a fun way to remember your visits, with stamps indicating the date of your visit. These books are great for kids and adults and can be purchased at most national parks. Ordering stickers in advance allows you to stamp over them, as some national parks do not carry the sticker, creating a durable keepsake. Purchase your National Passport in advance here.
Best Time to Visit Jenny Lake.
The best time to visit Jenny Lake is from late May to early October when the weather is warm and all facilities and trails are open. With its changing leaves, the fall season offers stunning scenery and fewer crowds.
Accessibility at Jenny Lake.
Jenny Lake offers some accessible trails and facilities, making it a great destination for visitors with mobility issues. The Jenny Lake Visitor Center has accessible restrooms and parking.
Camping Near Jenny Lake.
The nearby Jenny Lake Campground is a popular overnight option. It offers a rustic camping experience with tent sites and basic amenities. Learn more about the campground here.
Be Sure to Check Out Our Other Blogs on Grand Teton National Park.
Explore more about Grand Teton National Park by reading our other articles:
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Grand Teton National Park: Top Activities and Attractions.
Discover Mormon Row: A Journey Through the History of the American West.
Conclusion: Experience the Best of Jenny Lake.
Jenny Lake is a must-see destination in Grand Teton National Park, offering a range of activities from hiking and boating to wildlife viewing and photography. Its breathtaking scenery and peaceful environment make it a perfect spot for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a beautiful place to unwind, Jenny Lake has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the natural beauty and tranquility of this incredible glacial lake.