Leigh Lake Trail - 1.8mi Easy Hike

Waves crash on the shore of a clear, blue lake at the base of a mountain range.

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 110

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 110
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours for most hikers. Fit walkers do it in 1 hour; families with small kids might take 2-2.5.
Trail Surface: Relatively flat dirt and packed soil with roots, branches, and rocks. 5-6 stairs near the trailhead.
Trail Features: Pristine alpine lake
Eastern shore of String Lake
Teton mountain views
Forest setting
Less crowded than valley trails
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.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead
Parking Fill Time: Full by 8:00–9:00 AM during peak season (June–September).
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not required. Drive directly to the trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: 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.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter closure (November–April depending on snow). Trail is typically snow-covered and requires snowshoes.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Carry all water from the trailhead. String Lake and Leigh Lake are visible but require filtration if used.
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.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Wet or slippery rocks near water's edge
Exposure to sun at the lake
Roots and rocks on trail underfoot
Minor cliff exposure at Leigh Lake shore
Hazard Details: 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.
Crowd Level: Light to moderate. Less crowded than Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls, or Inspiration Point, but still busy during peak summer weekends.
Peak Crowd Times: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM on weekends and holidays; mid-June through August.
Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit: Spring (May–June) for clear trails and fewer crowds. Summer (July–August) for predictable weather but expect higher traffic. Fall (September–October) for crisp air, wildlife activity, and brilliant aspens. Arrive by 6:00 AM to secure parking and beat the crowds. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer—start early and be off the lake by 3:00 PM.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: String Lake Area
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.
Shade Level: Mostly shaded in the forest section. Open and exposed at the lake. Wear sun protection and bring a hat.
Emergency Contacts: Emergency: 911. Non-emergency Grand Teton dispatch: 307-739-3300.
Map Recommended: 0
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.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
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.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently praise Leigh Lake as the perfect accessible introduction to Grand Teton. Families love the short distance and easy grade; photographers return for the quiet shore and mountain reflections. The fewer crowds compared to Jenny Lake or Hidden Falls make it a smart pick for a peaceful morning walk.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

Do I need a permit?

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