The route is obvious—the loop is well-worn. But bring a map anyway. If you get turned around in the burned area, it helps.

No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail or in Grand Teton backcountry.

String Lake

Q: Are there bears on this trail?

Yes, black bears are possible. Make noise in the open areas, especially near the lake and in the burned forest. Travel in groups. No bears are guaranteed, but be loud.

Q: How fit do I need to be?

Moderate fitness. You need to handle sustained climbing and uneven ground for 2–3 hours. Not a beginner trail. Regular hikers handle it fine.

Q: What's the water situation?

No water sources on the trail. Filter at String Lake at the start or carry all 2 liters from the car. Plan to carry water for the entire 3.7-mile loop.

Q: Is the parking lot usually full?

Yes, by 8 AM in summer. Arrive by 6 AM or plan an afternoon start after 1 PM.

Overview

About This Trail

Loop around String Lake for 360-degree views of Mount St. John, Rockchuck Peak, and Jackson Hole Valley—a 3.7-mile circuit with 540 feet of elevation gain. The east shore delivers a gradual warm-up over rooty terrain; the west side climbs to a ridge overlooking the lake before ducking back into forest. Mostly shaded, except where a burned forest opens the canopy and exposes you to sun and wind. Difficulty: Easy with real terrain; time: 2–3 hours depending on fitness and photo stops.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy with real terrain

Trail Highlights

Panoramic views of Mount St. John, Rockchuck Peak, and Jackson Hole Valley from the ridge overlooking String Lake. The burned forest adds moody, raw terrain.

Insider Tips

• The false 'summit' on the west ridge is not the high point—keep going for the best views. • East side is faster; save the west side ridge for the return to enjoy the views. • Arrive by 6 AM to secure parking in summer. • The burned forest is disorienting—stay on the main trail.

Best Season to Hike

Late Spring through Early Fall (May–October)

Hiking Tips

Hydrate hard: no water sources on the trail. Carry 2L minimum.
Trekking poles for the rooty east side and descent from the ridge.
The burned forest section is sun-exposed; wear a hat and sunscreen.
Make noise for bears in the open areas.
Tighten your boots; roots are an ankle-twist waiting to happen.

Family Info

Good for families with older kids (8+) comfortable with rooty terrain and 540 ft of elevation. Young kids should be supervised on the west ridge section due to exposure and drop-offs. The burned area is exposed and hot—bring shade gear.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 540 ft

Duration: 2–3 hours if you're fit and stop for photos; 3–4 if you're breaking in new boots.

Difficulty: Easy with real terrain

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Rooty forest trail with exposed rocks. East side is relatively flat with obstacles like roots and rock. West side climbs to ridge. Burned area section is rocky and open.

Getting There

Trailhead: String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required.

Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (7 days)

Shuttle Available

None. You drive to the String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-worn path, occasionally marked. Route is obvious, but bring a map.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Filter at String Lake; no sources on the trail itself. Plan to carry all water.

Shade: Mostly shaded forest, except burned area section (full sun, windy).

Hazards:

Exposed roots and rocks on east shore can twist ankles. West side ridge has drop-offs with exposure to wind and steep sides. Burned forest section is full sun and can be hot. Trail can be icy in spring.

Emergency: 911 when in service. Park ranger stations available at Colter Bay Visitor Center and Park Headquarters.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to high in summer

Peak Times: 7 AM–10 AM, especially July–August weekends

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The String Lake Loop is an easy 3.7 mi loop hike with 540 ft of elevation gain and an average slope of 6%. The trail on the east side is relatively flat with obstacles such as exposed roots and rock. The west side includes elevation gain to a ridge overlooking String Lake.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead has parking. Colter Bay Campground (8 miles north) has RV and tent sites, restrooms, and ranger station. No services directly at trailhead.

FAQs

Is this trail really 'easy'?

It's easy by Teton standards—no scrambling, no cables, no chains. But 540 ft of elevation gain over rooty terrain is real work. Most hikers finish in 2–3 hours. Don't let the 'easy' label fool you.

Are there bears on this trail?

Do I need a map?

How fit do I need to be?

Can I bring my dog?

What's the water situation?

Is the parking lot usually full?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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