Hermitage Point

Yellow flowers bloom in front of a lake at the base of a mountain range.

This is a 9.5-mile loop that separates the committed from the casual. Moderately strenuous means a solid 4 to 7 hours of steady hiking through forest, meadow, and wetland. The payoff: Jackson Lake and Teton Range views that justify the distance. Expect obstacles—roots, branches, exposed rock—that keep you sharp and demand good boots.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 9.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 930

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 9.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 930
Estimated Time: 4-7 hours
Trail Surface: Dirt trail with roots, rocks, branches, and occasional exposed stone
Trail Features: Jackson Lake
Teton Range mountain views
Forest
Rolling meadows
Wetland sections
Trail Highlights: Hermitage Point peninsula delivers the money shot—Jackson Lake reflection framed by the Teton Range. The views justify the distance.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Colter Bay parking area, northwest corner of Grand Teton National Park
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required. Drive directly to Colter Bay and park at the trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Overnight backcountry camping requires a permit. Day hiking does not. Backcountry permits: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/back.htm or obtain at Colter Bay Visitor Center.
Fees: $35 (Grand Teton National Park entrance fee, valid 7 days)
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter access unreliable; snow typically closes or restricts access November through April. Confirmed access spring through fall.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Wetlands present; water purity unknown and untreated sources risky. Carry your full supply—do not depend on trail water.
Accessibility: The Hermitage Point Trail is a moderately strenuous, 9.5 mi loop hike with 930 ft elevation gain and an average slope of 4%. While relatively flat in gradient, the trail is long and contains obstacles: branches, roots, and exposed rock. Constant elevation changes and long duration compound difficulty.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Root and rock obstacles
Uneven footing
Sustained elevation changes
Long distance/fatigue
Bears in area
Exposure on open sections
Hazard Details: Trail contains roots, branches, and exposed rock throughout. Long distance compounds joint stress on descent. This is bear country—dense forest and wetlands mean limited visibility. Solo travel increases risk.
Crowd Level: Moderate—popular but not a conga line like String Lake
Peak Crowd Times: July-August mornings; mid-week less crowded than weekends
Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit: Start by 6 AM to beat afternoon heat and crowds. Spring, summer, fall—avoid winter when snow makes access unreliable. Early spring: expect boggy sections from snowmelt.
Tips Advice: Carry 2+ liters of water minimum—this is a long haul with no confirmed reliable sources
Sturdy boots non-negotiable: roots, rocks, and uneven footing demand ankle support
Trekking poles reduce knee impact on the descent; your joints will thank you
Make noise constantly: you're in bear country with forest and wetland cover
Bring a headlamp and know the loop route; confused hikers waste daylight
Sunscreen and hat: open meadows will burn you despite the feeling of cool mountain air
Start the loop toward Heron Pond first (clockwise); better pacing and views

More details

Park Area: Colter Bay
Trail Markers: Signed, but the 9.5-mile loop confuses many hikers. Carry a map and verify your route at the visitor center before starting.
Dogs Allowed: false
Shade Level: Mixed—forested sections provide relief; open meadows expose you to direct sun. Pack sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Emergency Contacts: 911 (park emergency); Colter Bay Visitor Center (available during operating hours)
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Typically snow-covered November through April; verify current conditions before winter attempts.
Mud Season: Early spring (April-May): snowmelt saturates wetland sections; boots will sink and slow your pace.
Bug Season: Summer (July-August peak): mosquitoes thrive in wetland sections; bring DEET-based repellent.
Insider Tips: The loop via Heron Pond and Swan Lake confuses many hikers—stick with trail signs or carry a map
Hermitage Point views are worth the final push; do not turn back at the lake—the peninsula delivers the payoff
The descent is brutal on joints; trekking poles are worth their weight
Start the loop clockwise (toward Heron Pond first) for better pacing and confidence building
Sunset views are exceptional but risky—do not gamble with daylight; plan to finish by dusk
Recent Updates: No recent trail closures or major changes reported as of June 2026.
Family Friendly Notes: The 9.5-mile distance and 4-7 hour duration are challenging for young children. Obstacles (roots, rocks, branches) require careful footing. Hand-holding on exposed rock sections and stream crossings advised. Fitness level matters; test kids on 3-4 mile hikes first.
Nearby Facilities: Colter Bay Visitor Center, Colter Bay Campground, and Colter Bay RV Park provide water, restrooms, lodging, and supplies. Stock up before hitting the trail.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently report the 9.5-mile distance is the main challenge, not technical difficulty. Most say the lake and mountain views justify the grind. Popular with serious day-hikers and backpackers seeking a longer wilderness experience without extreme technical demands.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this if I'm not super fit?

Yes. Steady pace matters more than speed. Take breaks at scenic spots. Most hikers finish in 5-6 hours. Bring water and snacks. Your legs will feel it the next day, but the views are worth the soreness.

Is it safe to hike alone?

You're in bear country. Solo is legal, but groups of 3+ are safer. Make constant noise. Carry bear spray if trained. Best practice: hike with at least one partner. Never assume the trail is safe alone.

What about water on the trail?

No confirmed reliable water sources. Carry 2+ liters minimum. Wetlands look wet, but water purity is unknown. Do not depend on filtering wetland water—it's risky. Bring all water you need.

What gear do I actually need?

Good boots are non-negotiable (roots and rocks demand ankle support). Trekking poles reduce knee impact. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a headlamp. Microspikes only if snow/ice is present—verify conditions first. A map is essential for the loop.

How early should I start?

6 AM is ideal. You finish by noon, avoiding afternoon heat and crowds. Starting past 9 AM risks a headlamp finish if you're slower than expected.

Is this a beginner-friendly hike?

No. If you're a beginner, do a 3-5 mile hike first (Heron Pond loop is shorter and easier). Come back to Hermitage Point when 9 miles feels doable without crushing doubt.

What about weather concerns?

Mountain weather changes fast. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in summer. Start early and finish before 3 PM if storms are forecasted. Exposure on meadows means no escape from lightning—plan accordingly.