Phelps Lake Trail - 3.7mi Moderate Hike

A lake sits at the base of a mountain canyon with a near perfect reflection on its calm surface.

The Phelps Lake Trail is a 3.7-mile moderate out-and-back hike with 1,080 feet of elevation gain, featuring a series of switchbacks down to an alpine lake and an exposed overlook. The first half descends via a well-defined trail to the lakeshore; the return climb is strenuous uphill and demands real fitness and hydration. Expect rooty, rocky terrain with multiple elevation swings. The payoff: a mountain lake framed by the Teton range, accessible as a day hike but only if you respect the altitude and prepare for a tough ascent home.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3.7
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 1080

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3.7
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 1080
Estimated Time: 3 hours if fit, 4+ if altitude-challenged. The descent is fast; the return is the test.
Trail Surface: Dirt and rocky trail with exposed roots. Average slope 13%. Not paved.
Trail Features: Alpine lake
Mountain overlook
Switchback descent
Rocky terrain
Canyon walls
Teton views
Trail Highlights: Phelps Lake sits in a high alpine basin with views of the Teton range. The descent via switchbacks leads to the lakeshore, where the Phelps Lake Loop Trail offers further exploration. From the overlook, the panorama is the reward for the work.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Death Canyon Trailhead, one mile down a rutted dirt road. The road is not recommended for vehicles with low clearance. Exercise caution when driving down and pull fully off if parking on shoulder.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle service. Drive to Death Canyon Trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Day hiking does not require permits. Backcountry camping requires permits—visit the NPS backcountry page.
Fees: $35 (7-day entrance pass for private vehicle; $30 motorcycle; $20 per person by foot or bicycle)
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter closure. The trail is typically accessible June–October. Snow and ice make the steep return hike dangerous November–May.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Carry all water. Filter at the lake if you plan to refill on site.
Accessibility: Moderate trail with 1,080 ft elevation gain over 3.7 miles. Hikers not used to altitude should take their time. The trail has obstacles: exposed roots and rocks throughout. Repeated elevation changes mean no flat respite. The return is all uphill—trekking poles are recommended.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Steep elevation loss and gain
Exposed rocks and roots
Sun exposure
Altitude
Cold water (lake)
Canyon exposure
Hazard Details: The descent switchbacks are steep and exposed. Rooty and rocky terrain can roll ankles. The return climb is relentless uphill at elevation. Canyon walls funnel sun. The lake is cold and deep—no wading areas. Slips on descent could result in tumbles.
Cell Service: Likely poor. Do not rely on cell signal in the canyon. Tell someone your plan.
Crowd Level: Moderate to heavy in summer. Most hikers cluster on weekends and July-August.
Peak Crowd Times: July-August weekends, afternoons
Best Season: Summer and Fall
Best Time To Visit: Summer and fall. Start before 7 AM in July-August to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and heat. September-October offers cooler temps and fewer crowds but shorter daylight.
Tips Advice: Carry 2-3 liters of water minimum—canyon sun is relentless on the return.
Wear trekking poles. The descent is easier with them; the ascent is torture without them.
Start early. The hike back is all uphill and slower than the descent.
Bring a sun hat and sunscreen. Shade is sparse.
The trail has rooty obstacles and exposed rocks—watch your foot placement.

More details

Park Area: Death Canyon area
Trail Markers: Well-marked switchback trail with clear tread. Navigation is straightforward.
Dogs Allowed: No
Biking Allowed: No
Shade Level: Mostly open. The switchback descent has limited shade. The lakeshore has some tree cover. Full sun exposure on the open descent—protect yourself.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911 from the park if possible. Nearest ranger station: Moose Junction. Colter Bay Visitor Center has emergency resources.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: November–May: snow and ice likely
Mud Season: April–May: snowmelt and mud on lower sections
Wildflower Peak: July–August
Fall Colors Peak: September–October
Bug Season: Mosquitoes peak July–August, especially near the lake. Bring bug spray.
Insider Tips: The overlook view is good, but don't stop there. Drop to the lakeshore for the real payoff.
The false flat near the lake can trick you into thinking you're done. You still have the 1,080 ft climb back.
Most hikers turn around at the lakeshore, so the loop trail extension has fewer crowds.
Start by 6 AM in peak season to avoid the conga line and afternoon heat.
Family Friendly Notes: The strenuous return climb makes this best for kids 10+. Very young children may struggle with the ascent and exposure. Hold hands on steeper sections; the trail has drop-offs. Altitude can surprise lowland families—go slow and bring extra water.
Review Summary: Hikers report the descent is fast and the views are rewarding, but the return climb separates the fit from the unprepared. Most say the lake is worth the effort if you bring trekking poles, plenty of water, and start early. The trail is well-maintained and straightforward to follow.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail safe to hike alone?

Yes, if you're experienced with high-elevation hiking and tell someone your plan. Cell service is poor, so solo hikers should carry a satellite communicator. The trail is well-marked, but bring a map anyway.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Pets are not permitted on park trails.

How hard is the elevation gain?

1,080 feet over 3.7 miles sounds moderate, but you gain most of it on the return hike when you're tired. The descent is easier, but the ascent tests your fitness. Trekking poles are not optional—bring them.

Is the trail closed in winter?

Typically, yes. The steep switchbacks with snow and ice are dangerous. Check the NPS website for current conditions before November.

Do I need a permit?

Not for day hiking. Only overnight backcountry camping requires a permit.

How much water should I bring?

Minimum 2 liters. 3 liters is better. The canyon is exposed and dry. You can filter at the lake, but carry enough to reach it.