Leigh Lake via String Lake Trailhead
Alta, Wyoming
Details
Distance
2.84 miles
Elevation Gain
105 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Christina Adele Warburg-Hon
Short hike or paddle to beautiful white sand beaches at the foot of Paintbrush Canyon and Mt. Moran in Grand Teton National Park. You'll be rewarded with a warm, clear lake with wildlife abounding.
Leigh Lake is absolutely stunning with about as many recreational activities as you can imagine for a lake. It is a short flat one mile hike from the trailhead at String Lake to Leigh. Once you get there can go as far along as you wish along the 2 mile lakeshore. You can also Kayak, Canoe, or SUP with a small well marked portage from String Lake if you wish. Once you get there, the lake has numerous white sand beaches for you to lay out on when you aren't enjoying the relatively warm water or as you fish.
If you are paddling, you may wish to explore the western side of the lake which is much more unexplored and less crowded than the eastern shore. There are also several islands within the lake which are definitely worth exploring.
If backpacking and camping is your deal, there are many backcountry sites along the lake for you to utilize, just make sure you get a permit from a park visitor center.
One thing to be aware of is that this is absolutely bear country. I have never done this hike and not seen a bear. Please be extra careful about your food storage and definitely travel in groups and carry bear spray. Grand Teton National Park usually ends up having to euthanize at least one bear from this area a year, because it has gotten too many food rewards from people who are not careful. Don't be that person and enjoy Leigh safely for both you and the wildife.
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Leigh Lake via String Lake Trailhead Reviews
Another great lake in the Tetons and a lot fewer people than Jenny Lake.
4.0
In all of the short hikes in GTNP, String and Leigh are my favorites. These lakes are incredibly beautiful and offer photographers tons of opportunities.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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Paddle String Lake and Leigh Lake
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