Signal Mountain Summit Trail: 6.8 miles round trip, Grand Teton

Signal Mountain Summit overlook in Yellowstone National Park offers a sweeping view of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding forested valley.

6.8 miles round-trip with about 980 ft of elevation gain. The trail is narrow and winding with exposed rocks and roots, weaving through lodgepole pine forests and meadow clearings. Expect a steady 3-5 hour climb with some steeper sections. High reward for the effort: panoramic views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley from the summit.

7,720-ft. peak, accessible by a road or hiking trail, with Teton & Jackson Hole views from the top.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 6.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate (strenuous in sections)
Elevation Gain Feet: 980

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 6.8
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Moderate (strenuous in sections)
Elevation Gain Feet: 980
Estimated Time: 3-5 hours
Trail Surface: Narrow, winding with exposed rocks and roots; forested and meadow sections
Trail Features: Lodgepole pine forests
Meadows
Exposed rocky sections
Forest-to-meadow transitions
Wildlife sightings (bears, moose, elk, eagles)
Trail Highlights: 360-degree views of the Teton Range, Jackson Lake, and Jackson Hole valley.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Primary: Signal Mountain Lodge trailhead; access by parking at Signal Mountain Lodge, cross Teton Park Road and follow signs. Alternate: Signal Mountain Campground. Third: drive 1.1 miles up Signal Mountain Summit Road to a small parking area near a seasonal pond.
Parking Lot Size: Lodge and Campground lots; fill up during peak season and around sunset
Parking Fill Time: Before 8:00 AM
Shuttle Required: 0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: Grand Teton NP entrance fee applies.
Fees: Grand Teton National Park entrance fee applies; an annual pass may be cost-effective.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: Winter: Signal Mountain Summit Road closed; snow can linger into early summer.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: Dry trail; carry at least 1 liter of water per 5 miles. No reliable natural water sources along the route.
Accessibility: Not ADA accessible; uneven surface; some steep grades

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Bear country
Severe weather and lightning risk in summer
Steep, exposed sections
Slippery rocks and roots
Crowds and parking challenges
Hazard Details: Bear spray, travel in groups, and make noise. Thunderstorms can form in the afternoon; some sections are steep and exposed with loose footing.
Cell Service: Limited
Crowd Level: Popular; crowds can be significant at overlooks and sunset
Peak Crowd Times: Sunset hours and weekends
Best Season: Late June through August
Best Time To Visit: 7:00–8:00 AM to beat crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
Tips Advice: Carry 2 liters water per person; no excuses.
Start the ascent early and pace yourself on the climb.
Bear safety: carry bear spray and travel in groups; make noise.
Wear sturdy footwear and sun protection; some sections are exposed.
Consider hiking up Ridge Trail and descending Ponds Trail for varied scenery.

More details

Park Area: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Trail Markers: Well-marked; follow Ridge Trail up and Ponds Trail down
Dogs Allowed: Leashed dogs allowed
Biking Allowed: Not allowed
Shade Level: Partial shade in forest; open meadows with sun exposure
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies; Grand Teton National Park rangers: 307-739-3300
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Signal Mountain Summit Road closed in winter; snow can linger into early summer.
Mud Season: Spring may bring mud
Wildflower Peak: Early summer
Fall Colors Peak: Autumn
Bug Season: Warmer months
Insider Tips: Ridge Trail up, Ponds Trail down for varied scenery.
Arrive by 7-8 a.m. to secure parking and beat crowds.
Bring bear spray; make noise and travel in groups.
Pack sun protection and extra layers for wind at the summit.
Sunrise or sunset visits offer prime lighting; plan accordingly.
Family Friendly Notes: Moderate length; may challenge very young children; consider shorter segments or breaking into two hikes.
Nearby Facilities: Signal Mountain Lodge; Signal Mountain Campground; summit overlook parking
Review Summary: Hikers report a steady climb with a meaningful payoff at the summit; the 360-degree Tetons view is the highlight. Crowding and parking can be a challenge, especially at sunset, but the trail is well maintained and accessible to families willing to commit to the distance.