Bearpaw & Trapper Lakes - 9.2mi Moderate Hike

A small lake surrounded by green vegetation and trees.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 9.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 460

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 9.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 460
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
Trail Surface: Forest trail with exposed roots, rocks, and uneven terrain. Dirt packed in most sections, muddy near water sources. Small uphills and downhills throughout.
Trail Features: Alpine lakes
Mount Moran peak views
Forested shorelines
Open meadow finish
Mountain panoramas
Trail Highlights: Mount Moran's dramatic peak dominates views from three alpine lakes, with the final payoff at Trapper Lake in an open meadow.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: String Lake Trailhead (northern end of String Lake; park at the String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead)
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: 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)

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Leigh Lake and the destination alpine lakes (Bearpaw and Trapper). Filter or treat before drinking. Creeks present but water quality varies.
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.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Exposed roots and rocks
Uneven, rooty terrain
Wildlife (bears)
Weather exposure at altitude
Altitude-related fatigue over distance
Hazard Details: 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.
Crowd Level: Moderate to heavy on summer weekends; lighter on weekdays and early mornings.
Peak Crowd Times: Summer afternoons (10 AM–4 PM) and weekends. Early mornings (before 8 AM) and weekdays offer solitude.
Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit: Start before 8 AM to beat crowds and heat. Spring and early fall offer stable weather. Summer is busiest—bring extra water to manage the long haul. Avoid late afternoon thunderstorms on the exposed meadow.
Tips Advice: 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

More details

Park Area: String Lake / Leigh Lake area (north-central Grand Teton)
Trail Markers: Well-worn main trail with blazes and cairns. Rooty terrain is obvious—hard to get lost on the main path.
Dogs Allowed: false
Shade Level: Mostly shaded through forested shorelines; open meadow at Trapper Lake offers full sun exposure. Wear a hat for the final approach.
Emergency Contacts: Grand Teton National Park Ranger: 307-739-3300
Map Recommended: 1
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
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
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.
Review Summary: Hikers confirm it's achievable but underestimate the time and distance. Most praise Mount Moran views as the payoff. Feedback emphasizes that proper pacing, footwear, and water planning are non-negotiable for this 4-6 hour commitment.