Lunch Tree Hill

Sign at the base of Lunch Tree Hill trail behind the Jackson Lake Lodge.

Lunch Tree Hill is a deceptive half-mile paved loop that climbs 110 feet to an exposed hilltop with 360-degree views of the Teton Range and Willow Flats. The 10% average grade feels steeper than the distance suggests—this is a sustained grind, not a stroll. You'll earn the view. Spring through fall access only; plan 20–45 minutes and arrive early to secure parking at Jackson Lake Lodge.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.5
Route Type: Lollipop loop
Difficulty Level: Easy (NPS-rated) but with a steep, grinding grade
Elevation Gain Feet: 110

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.5
Route Type: Lollipop loop
Difficulty Level: Easy (NPS-rated) but with a steep, grinding grade
Elevation Gain Feet: 110
Estimated Time: 20–45 minutes. Most hikers: 30–40 minutes including photo stops.
Trail Surface: Paved throughout but situated on a steep 10% incline. Can become slippery when wet or after rain.
Trail Features: Panoramic Teton Range vistas
Willow Flats vista from summit
Paved lollipop loop
360-degree mountain panorama
Exposed hilltop
Trail Highlights: The summit reveals an unobstructed panorama: the Teton Range dominates the western horizon, while Willow Flats and Jackson Lake stretch north. This short distance means even families can reach world-class views. Best light: sunrise or golden hour (late afternoon).

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Jackson Lake Lodge parking area. Follow signs for Lunch Tree Hill from the lodge.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle service. Park at Jackson Lake Lodge trailhead only.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required for day hikes.
Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day park entrance pass), $30 motorcycle, $20 per person on foot/bicycle (as of 2026-06-12).
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Generally closed November through April due to snow and ice accumulation. Contact park visitor center before visiting shoulder seasons (May, October) for current conditions.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Carry minimum 2L. Jackson Lake Lodge has potable water if you need a refill before or after.
Accessibility: Fully paved but steep (10% average grade). Not wheelchair accessible. Manageable for most adults with decent fitness, but challenging for those with mobility limitations, severe arthritis, or knee issues.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Steep paved surface—slippery when wet
Exposed summit with unobstructed wind
High sun exposure with zero shelter
Steep paved descent—hard on knees
No guard rails on hilltop
Hazard Details: The paved surface can become treacherous when damp or after rain—wear shoes with aggressive tread. The hilltop is fully exposed to sun and wind with no shelter or shade. The steep return descent puts strain on knees and ankles—descend slowly. No guard rails on the summit—watch children closely and avoid the edges in high wind.
Best Season: Spring, summer, and fall. Snow and ice typically close the trail November–April.
Best Time To Visit: Arrive by 6:30 AM to beat the parking competition and enjoy clear light on the Tetons. Spring through fall offer the only safe access; winter snow closes this trail. Early morning is non-negotiable if you want solitude—tour groups swarm mid-morning.
Tips Advice: Carry 2L minimum—the exposed hilltop offers zero shade and brutal sun exposure.
Wear shoes with aggressive tread; the paved surface is slippery when wet or muddy.
Start by 6:30 AM to lock down a parking spot at Jackson Lake Lodge and beat the crowds.
The 10% grade hammers the knees on the return descent—trekking poles save your joints.
Make noise if you see wildlife—this is bear country, even on easy trails.

More details

Park Area: Jackson Lake area (north-central Grand Teton National Park)
Trail Markers: Well marked with signs from Jackson Lake Lodge. Trail is heavily trodden and obvious. Navigation is straightforward.
Dogs Allowed: No
Shade Level: Full sun and wind exposure. The hilltop offers zero shade. Hat, sunscreen, and wind-resistant layers are essential.
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911. The trail is visible from Jackson Lake Lodge; rangers patrol the area regularly.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Trail typically snow-covered November through April. Shoulder seasons (May, October) may have lingering snow or ice; check conditions before visiting.
Mud Season: Spring snowmelt (April–May) may create muddy patches on and around the paved surface. Peak mud conditions typically late April through mid-May.
Insider Tips: Don't stop at the trail's false summit—the real views open at the very top. Keep pushing.
This trail fills with tour groups between 10 AM and 2 PM. Sunrise arrival (6:30 AM) guarantees solitude.
The paved surface becomes treacherous after rain. Check recent weather before committing.
On calm mornings, the Teton Range reflection in the light is unmatched. Early arrival pays.
The descent is harder on knees than the ascent—take it slow on the way down.
Family Friendly Notes: The 0.5-mile distance is family-friendly for ages 8+. Younger children may struggle with the steep sustained grade. No guard rails on the summit—parental supervision is mandatory. Excellent first mountain-view hike for fit kids.
Nearby Facilities: Jackson Lake Lodge is adjacent to the trailhead—restaurant, lodging, restrooms, and gift shop available. Colter Bay Visitor Center is approximately 5 miles south.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently praise the world-class Teton views and quick payoff for minimal time investment. Most note the steep paved grade is more of a grind than the distance suggests—quads and knees feel it. The exposed summit and lack of shade surprise first-timers. Early arrival is critical to avoid mid-morning crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Can I really do this in 20 minutes?

Yes if you're fit and skip the summit views. Most hikers spend 30–45 minutes including rest at the top.

Is this safe to hike alone?

Yes. It's highly visible from Jackson Lake Lodge and regularly patrolled. The trail is busy mid-morning.

Will my kids make it?

Ages 8+ with decent endurance, yes. Younger kids may struggle with the sustained steep grade. No guard rails—stay close on the summit.

Is there water on the trail?

No. Carry 2L minimum. Jackson Lake Lodge has water nearby for refills.

What gear do I need?

Shoes with aggressive grip (paved surface is slippery when wet). Hat and sunscreen are essential—zero shade on the hilltop. Trekking poles optional but save your knees on descent.

How tough is 110 feet of elevation?

Modest distance, brutal grade. The 10% slope is steep and relentless over 0.5 miles. This is a grind, not a walk.