No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Moderate to heavy on summer weekends. Early starts (before 8 AM) on weekdays reward you with solitude. Afternoon crowds are predictable.

Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes

Q: Do I need trekking poles?

Not required, but they save your knees on the rooty descent and rocky terrain. Bring them.

Q: Is the trail well marked?

Yes. Rooty and rocky, but the main path is obvious. A map helps on the final approach to Trapper Lake.

Q: Are there water sources along the trail?

Leigh Lake and the destination lakes offer water. Filter or treat before drinking. Carry 2L minimum to avoid dehydration on the long approach.

Overview

About This Trail

This is a long, moderate day hike to three alpine lakes with stellar Mount Moran views. The 9.2-mile round trip has modest elevation gain (460 ft) but demands grit—it's a 4-6 hour slog through forested shorelines with rooty, rocky terrain. You'll finish in an open meadow at Trapper Lake with panoramic views that reward the distance.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Mount Moran's dramatic peak dominates views from three alpine lakes, with the final payoff at Trapper Lake in an open meadow.

Insider Tips

• The trail splits late—right toward Bearpaw, left to Trapper. Most hikers target Trapper; Bearpaw receives fewer crowds • Leigh Lake shoreline offers shade and cooler air; use it to reset your pace • The terrain doesn't get steeper at the end, but your legs will protest • Filter water from the lakes or creeks—don't carry all 2L for the full 9.2 miles • Return via the same route; the descent is hard on knees—poles are your friend

Best Season to Hike

Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

Bring 2L of water minimum—long stretch before the lakes. Filter at Leigh Lake or destination sources
Trekking poles reduce knee impact on the rooty, rocky descent
Start early; the 9.2 miles takes longer than most estimate
Tight boots prevent ankle rolls on uneven terrain; exposed roots demand careful footing
Make noise for bears in forested sections
The false flat at Mile 5 will fool you—another mile to Trapper Lake

Family Info

The 9.2-mile distance is tough for young children without carrying capacity. Teens 13+ with hiking experience can manage the pacing. Rooty terrain requires secure footing and proper boots—ankle injuries are real on uneven ground.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 9.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 460 ft

Duration: 4-6 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Forest trail with exposed roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. Dirt packed in most sections, muddy near water sources. Small uphills and downhills throughout.

Getting There

Trailhead: String Lake Trailhead (northern end of String Lake; park at the String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead)

Requirements

Permit Required

Day hiking is unrestricted. Overnight backcountry trips require a permit. Visit https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/back.htm to learn about obtaining a backcountry permit.

Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (NPS API, as of 2026-06-12)

Shuttle Available

Not required.

Trail Rules

Dogs: false

Trail Markers: Well-worn main trail with blazes and cairns. Rooty terrain is obvious—hard to get lost on the main path.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Leigh Lake and the destination alpine lakes (Bearpaw and Trapper). Filter or treat before drinking. Creeks present but water quality varies.

Shade: Mostly shaded through forested shorelines; open meadow at Trapper Lake offers full sun exposure. Wear a hat for the final approach.

Hazards:

Exposed roots and rocks throughout. Uneven terrain forces slow footwork. Bear activity in forested sections—make noise. Weather on the open meadow can deteriorate quickly; afternoon thunderstorms are a real risk in summer.

Emergency: Grand Teton National Park Ranger: 307-739-3300

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy on summer weekends; lighter on weekdays and early mornings.

Peak Times: Summer afternoons (10 AM–4 PM) and weekends. Early mornings (before 8 AM) and weekdays offer solitude.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty, rocky, uneven terrain throughout. Long distance (9.2 mi) with modest elevation gain (460 ft). Initial 5-6 stairs at the trailhead. Multiple small ups and downs; no sustained climbs but relentless ground texture demands careful footing.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

String Lake Picnic Area at the trailhead. Jenny Lake Campground ~3 miles south. Colter Bay Visitor Center and Park Headquarters north in the main park corridor provide supplies and ranger information.

FAQs

Can a beginner hike this?

Yes, if you arrive rested. The 9.2 miles and 4-6 hours matter more than the elevation gain. Overestimate your time by 1-2 hours.

Do I need trekking poles?

Is the trail well marked?

Are there water sources along the trail?

Can I bring my dog?

How crowded is it?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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