No permit required for a day hike. Permits are only mandatory if you're staying overnight in the backcountry.

Leigh Lake

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes. It's a well-traveled, popular trail with consistent foot traffic. The path is clear, not remote, and hiking solo is normal here. Tell someone where you're going; cell service is unreliable.

Q: Are there bears on this trail?

Black bears live in this area, especially in fall when they forage. Make noise (talk, clap) as you walk. Carry bear spray if comfortable. Bear encounters are rare but possible—stay alert.

Q: How much water should I bring?

Bring 2–3 liters per person. There are no water sources on the trail. The lake is there, but you'd need a filter. It's easier to carry from the trailhead.

Q: What if the parking lot is full?

Arrive by 6:30 AM or hike after 5:00 PM. If the lot is full, don't park illegally—loop to Jenny Lake or Colter Bay and return in 30 minutes. The trail doesn't fill as fast as Jenny Lake.

Overview

About This Trail

Leigh Lake is an easy 1.8-mile round-trip hike along String Lake's eastern shore, gaining just 110 feet over smooth terrain. You'll walk past 5-6 stairs near the trailhead, then settle into a mostly flat forest path that opens onto pristine lake views with Teton backdrop. This is your quieter alternative to crowded valley hikes—fewer people, cleaner mountain reflection. Expect clear trail markers, low scrambling, and a stable 1-2 hour mission.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Walk along String Lake's quieter eastern shore to Leigh Lake, an alpine gem accessible only by trail. Mountain reflections on the lake, fewer people, and the chance to spot wildlife in the dense forest. Continue further along the Leigh Lake shore for more beach access and unobstructed peak views.

Insider Tips

• The first 0.3 miles to the lake are the steepest; after that, it flattens completely. • The lake's eastern shore gets better views the further you walk—don't stop at the first overlook. • Early morning light (6:00–8:00 AM) offers the best photography with mountain reflections. • Keep noise to a minimum to spot moose and elk in the forest.

Best Season to Hike

Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry 2–3 liters of water per person; the trail has no water sources.
Bring sunscreen and a hat—the lake reflects UV rays intensely.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip for the rooty, rocky sections.
Make noise while hiking to avoid startling bears; carry bear spray if you're backcountry camping.
Tighten boots before descending—loose rocks can twist ankles.
Check the weather forecast; afternoon thunderstorms can roll in fast in summer.

Family Info

Excellent for families with young children. The short distance, easy grade, and flat terrain make it ideal for parents with toddlers or young hikers. The 5-6 stairs at the start are manageable for most kids. Watch small children on the stairs and near the lake shore—rocks can be slippery, and the water is cold.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.8 miles

Elevation Gain: 110 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours for most hikers. Fit walkers do it in 1 hour; families with small kids might take 2-2.5.

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Relatively flat dirt and packed soil with roots, branches, and rocks. 5-6 stairs near the trailhead.

Getting There

Trailhead: String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead

Fills Up: Full by 8:00–9:00 AM during peak season (June–September).

Requirements

Permit Required

Day hikes are unrestricted. Backcountry permits are only required if you plan to stay overnight.

Fees: $35 per private vehicle (valid 7 days) or $20 per person (foot/bicycle entry). Entrance to Grand Teton National Park.

Shuttle Available

Not required. Drive directly to the trailhead.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Carry all water from the trailhead. String Lake and Leigh Lake are visible but require filtration if used.

Shade: Mostly shaded in the forest section. Open and exposed at the lake. Wear sun protection and bring a hat.

Hazards:

Trail surface has roots, branches, and rocks—watch your footing. The lake shore has rocks and a minor drop-off; supervise children. Spring snowmelt can make rocks slippery. Sun exposure at the lake is intense; bring sunscreen and plenty of water.

Emergency: Emergency: 911. Non-emergency Grand Teton dispatch: 307-739-3300.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Light to moderate. Less crowded than Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, or Inspiration Point, but still busy during peak summer weekends.

Peak Times: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM on weekends and holidays; mid-June through August.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The Leigh Lake Trail is an easy, 1.8 mi (2.9 km) RT out and back hike with 110 ft (30 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 5%. 5-6 stairs will take you to the relatively flat Leigh Lake Trail. Roots, branches, and rocks are found along the trail.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

String Lake Trailhead has parking. Colter Bay Visitor Center (north) and Jenny Lake area (south) offer ranger stations, water, and restrooms. Colter Bay Campground is nearby if you need lodging.

FAQs

Can I do this trail with young kids (ages 3–6)?

Yes. The 1.8-mile distance and flat terrain make it ideal for little legs. Plan 2–2.5 hours with breaks. Watch them on the 5-6 stairs and near the lake. Most families complete it in one outing.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Are there bears on this trail?

How much water should I bring?

What if the parking lot is full?

Do I need a permit?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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