Taggart Lake-Bradley Lake Loop - 5.6mi Moderate Hike

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

Two alpine lakes await on a moderate 5.6-mile loop—but don't let the distance fool you. The 890 feet of elevation gain punches harder than it looks, with a narrow, rocky trail through dense aspen scrub that demands focus. You'll earn spectacular views of the Teton Range reflected in two pristine mountain lakes. Worth the pain.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 5.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 890

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 5.6
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain Feet: 890
Estimated Time: 2–3 hours for fit hikers; 3–4 hours if you stop for photos at the lakes.
Trail Surface: Rocky, occasionally narrow sections through dense underbrush. Large rocks scattered throughout. Loose gravel on descent sections.
Trail Features: Two alpine lakes—Taggart and Bradley
Aspen-covered moraine
Teton Range mountain views
Rocky, technical sections
Dense underbrush
Multiple elevation changes
Trail Highlights: Two pristine alpine lakes with the Teton Range as backdrop. Aspen forest transitions to open views and rocky alpine terrain.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Taggart Lake Trailhead, parking lot entrance off Teton Park Road.
Parking Fill Time: Full by 7:30–8:00 AM in summer weekends; often fills by mid-morning weekdays.
Shuttle Required: 0

Permits & conditions

Fees: $35 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (valid 7 days) | Grand Teton National Park
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: No seasonal closure. Winter route requires snowshoes or cross-country skis.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Alpine lakes at Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake. No reliable sources on the ascent; carry all water from the trailhead.
Accessibility: Not wheelchair-accessible. Rocky, uneven terrain with roots, loose gravel, and significant elevation changes. Occasionally narrow trail with dense underbrush. Trekking poles and sturdy boots required.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Rock scramble sections
Narrow trail with dense underbrush
Loose rock and gravel
Exposure on switchbacks
Summer thunderstorms
Wildlife (bears, moose)
Hazard Details: Trail occasionally narrows with dense underbrush on both sides—limited escape routes. Large rocks and loose gravel, especially on descent. Switchback sections have mild exposure. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are a real threat at elevation. Bears and moose frequent this area; make noise and give wildlife space.
Crowd Level: Moderate to heavy in summer, especially on weekends. Light to moderate in spring, fall, and winter.
Peak Crowd Times: Summer (June–August), especially weekends 9:00 AM–2:00 PM.
Best Season: Summer and fall. Late May through October recommended. Winter accessible with snowshoes/cross-country skis (December–March).
Best Time To Visit: Summer (June–September) for snow-free hiking. Winter accessible with snowshoes. Arrive by 6:00 AM in summer to secure a parking spot—the lot fills fast. Early morning beats afternoon heat and crowds.
Tips Advice: Carry minimum 2–3 liters of water—the trail is dry until the lakes.
Wear sturdy boots with ankle support; rocky terrain and underbrush demand grip.
Start early to beat the crowd and afternoon thunderstorms.
Bring a trail map; directional signs at the Bradley Lake split are critical.
Tighten your boot laces before descent to prevent ankle rolls on loose rock.
Make noise while hiking—bears are in the area.

More details

Park Area: Grand Teton National Park
Trail Markers: Well-marked trail with directional signs. Cairns at major junctions. Pay close attention at the Bradley Lake split—it's easy to miss the correct turn.
Dogs Allowed: No. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.
Biking Allowed: No. Hiking only.
Shade Level: Partial. Aspen forest on initial moraine provides some shade; upper trail opens to full sun with minimal shade.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Trail accumulates snow November–May. Winter access requires snowshoes or cross-country skis; check park conditions before arriving.
Mud Season: Spring melt (May–early June) can create muddy sections on the lower trail.
Fall Colors Peak: Mid-September through mid-October (aspen groves are golden).
Insider Tips: The aspen-covered moraine section is the most scenic walk-up—don't rush it.
At the Bradley Lake trail split, the right fork is correct; the left fork is a dead-end spur.
The true vista payoff is on the return loop at mile 4.5 when you see the Tetons from a different angle.
Summer afternoon thunderstorms develop fast at 9,000+ feet—be off the trail by 2:00 PM.
The trail is muddier than its rocky appearance suggests after recent rain; wear boots with good drainage.
Family Friendly Notes: Suitable for children 10+ with hiking experience and fitness. The elevation gain and rocky terrain are not beginner-friendly. Younger children should be prepared for 3–4 hours of sustained hiking. Watch for steep drop-offs on switchbacks; hand-holding recommended on narrow sections.
Nearby Facilities: Nearest services (water, restrooms, food) at Colter Bay Visitor Center or park entrance stations. Bring everything you need to the trailhead.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently rate this loop as the sweet spot in Grand Teton—moderate gain with alpine payoff. Common feedback: "Teton views are worth every step, but summer crowding is real." Some note the rocky descent is harder on knees than the ascent. Most say arriving by 6:30 AM is non-negotiable in peak season.

Frequently asked questions

Is this really 'moderate' if it's 890 feet of elevation?

Yes. Moderate means sustained, not steep. The average slope is 7%—manageable if you're reasonably fit. Bring trekking poles and realistic expectations.

Will I see bears on this trail?

Possibly. Make noise constantly—talk, clap, wear a bear bell. Bears typically avoid humans. If you see one, back away slowly, don't run, and give it space. Fatal encounters are extraordinarily rare.

I'm terrified of heights. Will this freak me out?

The switchbacks have mild exposure, but they're not cliff-edges. If you're comfortable on a normal hiking trail with a slope beside you, you're fine. Check your sanity on Jenny Lake Loop first if unsure.

Can I do this in less than 2 hours?

Not safely. You need time to ascend, enjoy the lakes, and descend carefully on rocky ground. Rushing = twisted ankles. If you only have 2 hours, do Phelps Lake Overlook instead.

Do I need a map if the trail is well-marked?

Yes. Carry one anyway. The Bradley Lake split can be confusing, and you'll appreciate backup if weather turns or you get separated.

Is there water on the trail before the lakes?

No reliable sources. Carry 2–3 liters from the trailhead. You can filter lake water for the descent if needed, but don't count on it.