Bears are possible in Grand Teton. Make noise constantly, hike during daylight, and never hike at dawn or dusk. Travel in groups when possible. A bear canister is not required for day hiking, but bear awareness is mandatory.

Grand View Point

Q: Is this safe to hike alone?

Yes. The trail is well-traveled and established. Stay alert on narrow sections. Make noise constantly for wildlife. Cell service is unreliable, so carry a whistle for emergencies.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No. Zero reliable sources on this route. Carry 2 liters minimum. The switchback climbing will dehydrate you faster than you expect. Fill up at the trailhead.

Q: When is the trail open?

Summer through fall. Snow closes it in winter and early spring. Exact dates vary by year. Call the Grand Teton ranger station for current conditions before you drive out.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles are mandatory, not optional. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) is essential. Carry 2+ liters of water. Wear boots, not trainers—roots and rocks will turn your ankle. A map or GPS is smart given the dense underbrush.

Overview

About This Trail

An accessible hike with genuine payoff. The 2.6-mile route from Grand View Point Trailhead climbs 740 feet in steep switchbacks to panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole. The "easy" classification masks technical sections—dense underbrush and exposed roots demand attention. Most hikers finish in 1.5–2.5 hours. Bring water; the climbing sections offer minimal shade.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

The summit point delivers panoramic 180-degree views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley below. The payoff justifies the effort.

Insider Tips

• The trail from Jackson Lake Lodge (5.8 mi loop, moderate) is longer but offers a Christian Ponds circuit option; the Grand View Point Trailhead route is the direct shot. • Sunset alpenglow on the Tetons is visible around 8–9 PM in summer; many hikers time their hike for this light. • The view expands significantly in the final 0.5 miles; don't cut it short. • Descents are harder on the knees than ascents on this grade; trekking poles absorb impact.

Best Season to Hike

Summer through early fall

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L water minimum—the switchback climbing offers zero shade and will drain you faster than you expect.
Tighten your boots; exposed roots and ankle-roll rocks are everywhere.
Trekking poles are mandatory, not optional—they save your knees on the descent.
Start early; the trailhead fills by 8–9 AM in peak season.
Turn back immediately if thunderstorms approach—the open ridge is lightning bait.
A longer 5.8-mile loop from Jackson Lake Lodge circles Christian Ponds if you want more elevation; it's moderate difficulty.

Family Info

Easy classification masks the steepness. Switchbacks are sustained and narrow underbrush can crowd small kids. Recommended for children 8 and older. Hand-holding on steep switchback sections is essential. Ensure kids have trekking poles for stability.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 740 ft

Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours for most hikers; longer if you stop for photography

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Dirt trail with exposed rocks and roots; switchback grade compounds the technical difficulty

Getting There

Trailhead: Grand View Point Trailhead

Fills Up: Fills by 8–9 AM in peak season (July–August)

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required for day hiking. Park entrance fee applies.

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day park entrance pass)

Shuttle Available

None available

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Trail is well-worn and marked; clear junction at the Emma Matilda split toward Grand View Point

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable sources on the trail; carry all water

Shade: Mostly exposed on the switchback climbing section; patchy shade from underbrush mid-trail

Cell Service: Unreliable; assume no coverage

Hazards:

The trail includes steep switchbacks, narrow sections passing through dense underbrush, and exposed rocks and roots. The climbing sections are mostly exposed to sun. The summit area is open and lightning-prone during afternoon storms.

Emergency: Call 911 from the trail if cell service is available; carry a whistle for rescue signaling. Ranger station: contact Grand Teton National Park headquarters.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy during peak season (July–August)

Peak Times: Weekends and holidays in July and August

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The trail includes steep switchbacks, narrow sections passing through dense underbrush, and exposed rocks and roots. Not wheelchair accessible.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Jackson Lake Lodge offers lodging, dining, and supplies. No facilities directly at the trailhead.

FAQs

How fit do I need to be?

The 'easy' rating is misleading. 740 feet of elevation gain in steep switchbacks is real work. If you can hike briskly for 2–2.5 hours, you'll manage. Trekking poles are not optional—they're tactical for controlling the descent.

Is this safe to hike alone?

Are there bears?

Is there water on the trail?

When is the trail open?

Do I need special gear?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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