Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

Alta, Wyoming

4.7/5

based on 10 reviews

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Details

Distance

1.62 miles

Elevation Gain

456 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Gordon Li

Amazingly photogenic and scenic, this short stretch is a must when visiting the Grand Tetons.

A relatively easy hike. Getting to the trailhead requires a short boat ride across Jenny Lake from the south side. Alternatively, it is possible to walk around the lake as well.

Starting from the boat dock, the trail is only a ~0.8 mile climb to Inspiration Point (1.6 miles round trip). Shortly into the hike, you will pass a side trail leading to Hidden Falls. If you have time, it's worth checking out.

Wild marmots zips through the pristine conifer forest floor as you ascend. Wildlife is abundant in these parts. If you're lucky, you might even come across a moose. However, be wary of bears as they are known to frequent the area as well.

The forest opens up to a gorgeous backdrop of the "Cathedral Group." This is essentially the middle point of the hike. It is also a good time to refuel and take a moment and digest the Tetons in all its beauty.

The trail becomes a bit rocky, but is still manageable. Afterwards, you'll be greeted with a panoramic view of Jenny Lake.

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Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point Reviews

Explorer

Jared Blitz

Explorer

Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

07/06/16

Perfect hike to inspire you to go farther into Cascade Canyon and a hike up to Lake Solitude. Go early to beat the crowds. Take the boat toward the trailhead just because it feels like you're riding into Jurassic Park.

5.0

Explorer

Elyse Clark

Explorer

Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

06/24/16

Arguably the most crowded hike in the Tetons. It is recommended to take the Jenny Lake shuttle at least one way ($9/person) to cut off the 2 miles of trail around Jenny Lake. Try hiking past Inspiration Point into Cascade Canyon to get away from some of the crowds and for some jaw-dropping views.

4.0

sUnday MeXiA

Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

06/03/16

Once a year hike. Worth the Jenny Lake hike or the boat ride $. Wear boots. Hydrate plenty and watch your step on the way up. Also PLEASE watch your little ones, A LOT of potential for injuries if not attended to. If you can spare 2 additional hours I highly recommend hiking west of Inspiration Point on the Cascade Canyon Trail for at least a mile or two (1hr in and 1 hr out) at least. You will not regret it.

5.0

Explorer

Edward Day

Explorer

Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

04/23/16

Relatively easy hike. Can be pretty steep, but it's not that long so it is manageable. Plus the views are fantastic. Could get a bit crowded with people considering it's a pretty iconic spot in the Tetons. Still, must-do if you're in the Tetons.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hidden Falls & Jenny Lake Loop

You will find great views of the Tetons throughout this trek, which takes you past the gorgeous Jenny Lake and String Lake, as well as to Hidden Falls, a massive cascade along a river with many other waterfalls and awesome sights. There is also lots of wildlife in this area, including foxes, marmots, birds, squirrels, and elk. This is a must-do day hike if you are in the Tetons for a weekend. ...

Hike to Lake of the Crags

The unmarked trek up to Lake of the Crags is a hidden gem in Grand Teton National Park, unknown or untried by many. From the Jenny Lake trailhead, follow the path down to the lake and then around the western edge, headed toward Inspiration Point. Shortly after you enter the tree line, you'll see an unmarked trail (unofficially the Hanging Canyon trail) that darts off into the woods. The trail i...

Hike to Lake Solitude

Start out at South Jenny Lake.You have the option to take a ferry boat to the other side of the lake to make the journey shorter. If you want to take the ferry, it's about $15 and saves you an extra 4 miles RT.So from South Jenny Lake you hike along the south-west shore of Jenny Lake to the intersection point of the then-current trail, Inspiration Point, the ferry drop-off, and a nice waterfall...

Jenny Lake

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Photograph on Cottonwood Creek

If you are looking for a location in the Tetons to take some photos that is a little different, this is a great spot. So many people go to Jenny Lake to hike, take the boat or canoes out and do photography, but not many people spend time along this small stream. The wildflowers around this area are usually beautiful in early summer, so it could be great for photography then too. This is a great...

Jenny Lake Loop

Jenny Lake's north shore is one of the most beautiful hikes in Grand Teton National Park. Getting there requires a short shuttle boat ride to the north side of the lake, but you also have the option of hiking all the way around the lake. There is a ton of wildlife up here. Keep an eye out for moose and you won't be able to miss all the marmots - they're everywhere! From the Jenny Lake Trailhea...

Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

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Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hidden Falls & Jenny Lake Loop

Hike to Lake of the Crags

Hike to Lake Solitude

Jenny Lake

Photograph on Cottonwood Creek

Jenny Lake Loop

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