Moose Ponds

A moose stands in Moose Ponds with Teewinot mountain up high behind it.

This easy 2-mile out-and-back follows Jenny Lake's south shore with reliable moose sightings—if you start at dawn. The first quarter-mile is flat dirt with exposed roots and rocks; a short steep hill leads to the ponds. Expect full sun on the open shore and potential crowds in summer. Wildflowers bloom in spring; aspen colors peak in fall.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Out-and-back (loop option: 3.4-mile lollipop loop available)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 180

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Out-and-back (loop option: 3.4-mile lollipop loop available)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 180
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours for out-and-back; 3-4 hours for loop option
Trail Surface: Dirt trail with exposed roots and rocks, particularly on first quarter-mile
Trail Features: Moose sightings
Jenny Lake views
Teewinot Mountain views
Wildflower displays (spring)
Aspen colors (fall)
Lupine Meadows sagebrush area
Pronghorn spotting
Trail Highlights: Named for reliable moose sightings. Follows the scenic south shore of Jenny Lake with spectacular Teewinot Mountain views. Early morning wildlife activity and seasonal wildflowers/colors add to the payoff.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: South Jenny Lake parking area. Drive Teton Park Road, turn at South Jenny Lake. Trail starts just beyond the shuttle boat dock.
Parking Lot Size: Limited—full by 9am mid-summer. Overflow shoulder parking available (park fully off-road).
Parking Fill Time: By 9am in mid-summer; earlier in peak weekends. Guaranteed spot before 7:30am.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Shuttle boat dock available but not required for this trail. Dock access at South Jenny Lake for those who prefer not hiking around the lake.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required
Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (7-day pass). Additional nonresident fee of $100 applies if not a US resident.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter (November-April): snow-covered, only accessible with snowshoes or cross-country skis. Trail not maintained in winter.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Bring all water. No reliable potable sources on trail.
Accessibility: Dirt trail with exposed roots and rocks on first quarter-mile. Short steep hill section. Relatively flat overall with 8% average slope.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Exposed roots and rocks
Steep hill section
Full sun exposure
Wildlife (moose)
Unpredictable weather on open shore
Hazard Details: Exposed roots and rocks on first quarter-mile. Short steep hill to reach ponds. Full sun on lake shore creates heat and dehydration risk. Moose are unpredictable and can be aggressive—maintain at least 25 yards distance if encountered. Weather exposure on open shore can change quickly.
Crowd Level: Moderate to heavy in summer; light in off-season
Peak Crowd Times: Mid-summer (June-August), especially 9am-4pm on weekends
Best Season: Late spring through early fall (May-October) for reliable moose sightings and seasonal displays
Best Time To Visit: Start before 6am to catch moose. Parking fills by 9am mid-summer, so arrive by 7:30am. Early morning is mission-critical—wildlife is most active when it's cool.
Tips Advice: Bring 2L water minimum—full sun on lake shore, no potable sources on trail
Make noise with moose nearby—they're unpredictable; maintain 25+ yards distance
Trekking poles for grip on the steep hill and descent
Early morning start is non-negotiable for moose sightings
Shoulder parking overflow acceptable but requires staying fully off-road

More details

Park Area: Jenny Lake region, south shore
Trail Markers: Well-worn trail with clear path. Signed at trailhead.
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are not permitted on trails in Grand Teton National Park.
Shade Level: Mostly exposed on the open lake shore. Minimal shade. Hat and sunscreen essential.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911 in emergencies. Nearest ranger station at Park Headquarters or Colter Bay Visitor Center.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: November through April: heavy snow, requires winter equipment (snowshoes or cross-country skis)
Mud Season: Spring (April-May): snowmelt can create muddy conditions on lower trail sections
Wildflower Peak: Late May through early July
Fall Colors Peak: Mid-September through mid-October (yellowing aspen)
Bug Season: Peak mosquitoes: July-August, especially near water areas
Insider Tips: The 3.4-mile loop option detours through Lupine Meadows—better pronghorn spotting if moose don't show
That "first quarter-mile is flat" is a trap: the hill surprises you hard and catches walkers off-guard
Best light for mountain shots on the return hike facing Teewinot—turn around and shoot the peak
Early start is not optional for moose. Wildlife is most active when temperatures are cool. After 9am, odds drop dramatically.
Family Friendly Notes: Easy for most children, but supervise near water. The short steep hill requires leg power. Moose can be aggressive—maintain distance and don't approach if encountered.
Nearby Facilities: Colter Bay Visitor Center is nearest visitor services. Jenny Lake area has ranger station and concessions. Full services in Jackson (north) and Moran Junction (east).
Review Summary: Hikers report reliable moose sightings, especially at dawn. The hike is easy with minimal elevation gain, but crowds arrive early in summer and that short steep hill surprises many. Trail is scenic and well-maintained year-round.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this if I'm not fit?

Yes. It's easy—only 180 feet of elevation gain over 2 miles. The hill is short and forgiving.

Are there really moose here?

Regular sightings reported, especially at dawn when the area's cooler and animals are more active. No guarantees, but odds are solid if you start early.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted on trails in Grand Teton National Park.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes. The trail is well-traveled and easy. Moose are the only real concern—stay alert, make noise, maintain 25+ yards distance if you encounter one.

How much water do I need?

2L minimum. Full sun, no water sources on trail. Dehydration is a real risk. Bring electrolyte powder.

What's with that 'steep hill' people mention?

It's short (less than 0.25 miles) and steep, but brief. Trekking poles help. It comes as a surprise after the flat start and catches walkers off-guard.