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.

Holly Lake - 12.8mi Strenuous Alpine Hike

Q: 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.

Q: 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).

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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

Distance

12.8 mi

Elevation Gain

2,840 ft

Est. Time

7-9 hours

Route Type

Out-and-back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

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.

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.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and Fall

Hiking Tips

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.

Family Info

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.

What Hikers Say

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.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 12.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,840 ft

Duration: 7-9 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Steep, rooty, and rocky. Mix of dirt trail, exposed roots, rocks, and loose scree in upper sections. Bridge crossings over creeks.

Getting There

Trailhead: String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead, west side of String Lake

Requirements

Permit Required

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)

Shuttle Available

No shuttle service available.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well marked with cairns and blazes, but faint above 9,000 ft in open alpine terrain.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: String Lake creek crossing at start. Paintbrush Creek available near mile 6-7 (filter required). Alpine water sources sparse above 9,000 ft.

Shade: Partial - forested lower sections, fully exposed in upper Paintbrush Canyon and alpine zone

Hazards:

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 Info

Typical Crowds: Light to moderate - the strenuous 12.8-mile distance deters casual hikers, but popular with experienced backpackers.

Peak Times: July and August weekends

Accessibility & Family

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.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

No facilities at trailhead. Visitor services available at Colter Bay Visitor Center (nearest), Flagg Ranch Information Station, and Park Headquarters.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

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?

Do I need special gear for snow?

Will I see bears?

Is water available on the trail?

What if I run out of time?

Do I need a permit for a day hike?

📖 National Park Service — Holly Lake (official page) (checked 2026-06-12) 📖 National Park Service — Grand Teton National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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