Holly Lake

An alpine lake sits at the base of a rocky cliff surrounded by green vegetation.

This is a lung-buster: 12.8 miles round-trip with 2,840 feet of elevation gain through Paintbrush Canyon to a pristine alpine lake. The trail demands serious fitness, proper timing (summer-fall only), and relentless grit—most hikers take 7-9 hours. Reward: panoramic views of the Teton Range, Leigh Lake, and Jackson Lake from the alpine zone. This is a day-hike or overnight backpacking mission for experienced hikers only.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 12.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 2840

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 12.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 2840
Estimated Time: 7-9 hours
Trail Surface: Steep, rooty, and rocky. Mix of dirt trail, exposed roots, rocks, and loose scree in upper sections. Bridge crossings over creeks.
Trail Features: Alpine lake
Paintbrush Canyon
Panoramic mountain views
Bridge crossings
Jackson Lake views
Leigh Lake views
Trail Highlights: Pristine alpine Holly Lake surrounded by the Teton Range, with panoramic views of Paintbrush Canyon, Jackson Lake, and Leigh Lake from the summit approach.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead, west side of String Lake
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle service available.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required: Yes
Permit Details: Overnight backcountry permits required. Day hikes do not require permits. For overnight stays, obtain permits from the Backcountry Office: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/back.htm
Fees: $35 — Grand Teton National Park entrance (private vehicle, 7-day pass)
Trail Status: Seasonal - open summer and fall only
Seasonal Closures: Typically closed November through May due to heavy snow and avalanche risk. Early June and late October can have lingering snow.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: String Lake creek crossing at start. Paintbrush Creek available near mile 6-7 (filter required). Alpine water sources sparse above 9,000 ft.
Accessibility: Rooty and steep. 12.8-mile out-and-back with 2,840 feet of elevation gain over steep, narrow terrain with exposed rocks, roots, and bridge crossings. Not ADA accessible. Significant fitness and hiking experience required.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Steep terrain
Exposed drop-offs in narrow sections
Snow and avalanche danger (Nov-June)
Lightning exposure at altitude
Dehydration risk (limited water above 9,000 ft)
Wildlife (bears, moose)
Bridge crossings over rushing water
Hazard Details: Steep, narrow sections with exposed drop-offs demand attention. Bridge crossings over creeks can be slippery when wet. The alpine zone offers zero shade and zero protection from lightning—afternoon thunderstorms are a real threat June-September. Snow arrives as early as September and lingers until June; backcountry experience required for snow travel.
Crowd Level: Light to moderate - the strenuous 12.8-mile distance deters casual hikers, but popular with experienced backpackers.
Peak Crowd Times: July and August weekends
Best Season: Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit: Mid-June through late September, after snow clears and before it returns. Start by 6:00 AM to beat afternoon thunderstorms common in summer. Avoid spring (snowmelt) and fall after mid-October (fresh snow begins).
Tips Advice: Carry a minimum 3L of water; one creek crossing exists but filter before drinking.
Trekking poles are mandatory—the descent is brutal on knees.
Start before sunrise; afternoon lightning strikes this alpine zone regularly.
Bring a headlamp; 9-hour days often finish at dusk.
Wear gaiters and sturdy boots—exposed roots and rocks shred careless feet.
Make constant noise for bears in Paintbrush Canyon.

More details

Park Area: String Lake
Trail Markers: Well marked with cairns and blazes, but faint above 9,000 ft in open alpine terrain.
Dogs Allowed: No
Biking Allowed: No
Shade Level: Partial - forested lower sections, fully exposed in upper Paintbrush Canyon and alpine zone
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Heavy snow November through May. Early season snow possible in September and October. Late season snow lingers into June.
Insider Tips: The trail doesn't summit a peak—the "payoff" is the lake itself. Don't expect panoramic mountain views until you reach the alpine zone above 9,000 ft.
The descent is harder than the ascent; many hikers bonk here. Pace the climb conservatively.
Paintbrush Canyon funnels afternoon thunderstorms. Get off the ridge by 2:00 PM.
The false col at mile 5 tricks many hikers. Keep climbing; the real junction is 0.5 miles beyond.
Family Friendly Notes: Not suitable for young children. The combination of steep drop-offs in narrow sections, significant elevation gain, long distance, and high altitude make this unsafe for families with children under 12. Even fit teens will struggle.
Nearby Facilities: No facilities at trailhead. Visitor services available at Colter Bay Visitor Center (nearest), Flagg Ranch Information Station, and Park Headquarters.
Review Summary: Experienced hikers praise the alpine lake views and canyon scenery, but warn this is a serious grind. Most report the 7-9 hour estimate is accurate only for fit hikers; average hikers add 2-3 hours. Snow conditions make shoulder seasons dangerous without experience.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail in one day?

Yes, but only if you're fit. The 12.8 miles with 2,840 feet of gain takes 7-9 hours for experienced hikers. Most people finish between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, depending on pace. Slower hikers add 2-3 hours. Start at dawn.

Is Holly Lake safe to swim in?

Technically yes—it's fed by snowmelt and springs. It's brutally cold (40-50°F). Hypothermia risk is real if you stay in long. Most hikers just wade.

Do I need special gear for snow?

Yes. If you're hiking before mid-June or after mid-September and see snow on the trail, turn back. The canyon slopes are prone to avalanches. If you insist, carry an ice axe, know how to self-arrest, and have avalanche gear. Most hikers don't have this, so stick to summer (July-August).

Will I see bears?

Possibly. Paintbrush Canyon is active bear country, especially early/late season. Make constant noise, travel in groups, and never leave food unattended. If you see a bear, back away slowly and make noise.

Is water available on the trail?

String Lake creek crossing is at the start. Paintbrush Creek is around mile 6-7. Above that, water is scarce. Filter all water before drinking. Carry 3L minimum; 4L is safer.

What if I run out of time?

Stop at Leigh Lake (easier, shorter) or turn back at Paintbrush Canyon junction (mile 6). Pushing past your time budget on this trail is how hikers get injured or benighted. Know your pace and stick to it.

Do I need a permit for a day hike?

No day-hike permit required. If you're staying overnight, you must obtain a backcountry permit from the NPS: https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/back.htm