Murie Ranch Hike

Q: How crowded is this trail?

Summer can be busy, especially 10 AM–3 PM. Visit before 9 AM or after 4 PM for quiet. Shoulder seasons (May, September) are less crowded.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, and a light jacket. Trekking poles are unnecessary for this flat trail but won't hurt.

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes. It's short, well-traveled, near the visitor center, and in active-use areas. Carry a charged phone and tell someone your plan.

Q: Will I see moose or elk?

Possibly. The Teton forest is active wildlife habitat. Make noise while hiking, keep 25+ yards from animals, and carry binoculars. Don't approach or feed wildlife.

Q: What if thunderstorms come?

Afternoon storms are common in summer. Start early and be back by 2 PM. If you hear thunder, head immediately to the visitor center. Do not shelter under trees.

Distance

1.1 mi

Elevation Gain

50 ft

Est. Time

30 to 60 minutes

Route Type

Out and back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Spring through Fall (May–October)

Overview

About This Trail

The Murie Ranch Hike is a 1.1-mile out-and-back from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center to a historic ranch in the Teton forest. Difficulty is beginner-friendly—flat terrain with minimal elevation gain (50 feet) makes this accessible to most ages and fitness levels. You'll wind through woods and explore the ranch buildings before returning. The short distance and easy pace make this an ideal introduction to park trails.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Historic Murie Ranch buildings in Teton forest setting

Insider Tips

• The ranch buildings are the payoff—don't turn back at the first clearing. • Visit in shoulder seasons (May or September) to avoid summer crowds and afternoon heat. • Ask the visitor center ranger for current wildlife activity—moose sightings are common. • Bring binoculars for bird-watching along the forest trail. • For solitude, go before 9 AM or after 4 PM.

Best Season to Hike

Spring through Fall (May–October)

Hiking Tips

Carry water even on short hikes—dehydration happens fast, regardless of distance.
Start early (before 9 AM) to secure parking at the visitor center.
The trail is narrow—stay alert, make noise for wildlife, yield to others.
Bring a camera and plan 15–20 minutes for ranch exploration.
Let someone know your route and carry a charged phone.

Family Info

Excellent for young children ages 5+. The 1.1-mile distance is manageable for active kids. Trail narrowness requires hand-holding and supervision for toddlers. No drop-offs, scrambling, or technical terrain. Restrooms and water available at trailhead visitor center.

What Hikers Say

Hikers praise this trail as an accessible and historically significant introduction to Grand Teton. Short enough for families and beginner hikers, yet rewarding with forest scenery and a preserved homestead destination.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 50 ft

Duration: 30 to 60 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out and back

Surface: Flat but narrow

Getting There

Trailhead: Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day park entrance pass) as of 2026-06-12

Shuttle Available

Not required

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked and maintained

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources on trail. Carry sufficient water even for this short hike.

Shade: Partial shade through forest; open sections at ranch area expose you to sun

Hazards:

Trail narrows at several points limiting ability to pass oncoming hikers. Moose and elk inhabit the area—maintain 25+ yards and make noise. Weather in the Tetons changes quickly; afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Sun exposure during open forest sections.

Emergency: Ranger staff at Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center; emergency 911

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Flat but narrow. 1.1-mile roundtrip, 50 feet elevation gain, 3% average slope. Wheelchair accessibility should be verified with visitor center.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center offers restrooms, water, exhibits, and gift shop. Dining and lodging available elsewhere in park.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this too easy?

No. At 1.1 miles and 50 feet of gain, it's perfectly calibrated for fitness testing at the start of your trip or for non-hikers in your group. Plus, the history makes it worthwhile.

How crowded is this trail?

Do I need special gear?

Is it safe to hike alone?

Will I see moose or elk?

What if thunderstorms come?