Taggart Lake

A trail winds through bushes towards a mountain range.

Taggart Lake is an easy, accessible out-and-back trail that delivers unobstructed views of the Teton Range—one of the most reliable panoramic hikes in Grand Teton without technical climbing. The 3-mile round-trip climbs steadily through aspen forest before opening to an alpine lake with the peaks towering beyond. Parking fills early and fast in summer, and a section of trail is under maintenance in 2026, so check conditions before you go. For accessible Teton views, this is your baseline hike.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 360

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 3
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 360
Estimated Time: 1–2 hours if you're fit and don't linger; 2–3 hours if you stop at the lake for views and photos.
Trail Surface: Dirt with embedded rocks and stone steps; initial section on moraine with aspen roots, later sections more compacted. Loose rocks on the descent require careful footing.
Trail Features: Alpine lake at endpoint
Teton Range panorama
Aspen-covered moraine
Mountain vistas
Scenic lake reflections
Trail Highlights: Spectacular views of the Teton Range reflected in Taggart Lake; one of the most accessible and reliable panoramic hikes in the park without technical climbing.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Taggart Lake Trailhead
Parking Fill Time: Typically full by 8:30 AM on weekends and 9 AM on weekdays in summer; often fills by mid-morning.
Shuttle Required: 0

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required.
Fees: $35 per private vehicle (7-day park entrance pass).
Trail Status: Partially open. A section is under maintenance in 2026 for trail improvements; trail may be partially closed during work. Check NPS website before visiting.
Seasonal Closures: Winter does not technically close the trail (accessible with snowshoes or cross-country skis). A portion is closed in 2026 for trail improvements—check park website before planning.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: Taggart Lake itself is the endpoint, but water must be filtered. Carry all your water; no reliable water sources along the trail.
Accessibility: Taggart Lake is a 3-mile round-trip hike with 360 feet of elevation gain and a 6% average slope. The trail gains and loses elevation steadily and includes rocks and steps. Rooty sections on the moraine; later sections more compacted dirt.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Sun exposure and dehydration
Steep rocky sections
Loose rocks and embedded stones
Wildlife (bears)
Parking competition
Partial trail closure in 2026
Hazard Details: The trail includes rocky sections and embedded stone steps; some portions are steep. Significant sun exposure on the second half with minimal shade—this is the real hazard in summer. This is bear country; make noise while hiking. A section is under construction in 2026, potentially affecting access.
Crowd Level: Very heavy. This is one of the most popular trails in Grand Teton. Expect a conga line of hikers during peak hours (9 AM–3 PM) in summer.
Peak Crowd Times: 9 AM to 3 PM daily in summer; weekends are significantly busier. June–August peak months.
Best Season: Spring (May–June) and Fall (September–October); summer (July–August) is accessible but extremely crowded.
Best Time To Visit: Depart by 6:30–7:00 AM to beat the parking crunch and heat. Summer offers the most stable weather but expect severe crowds; late May, early June, September, and early October are sweet spots with better solitude. Avoid 9 AM–3 PM in peak season (July–August) unless you accept a full trailhead and overflow parking stress.
Tips Advice: Arrive by 6:30 AM to lock down a parking spot; the lot fills by mid-morning in summer
Carry 3L of water minimum—the second half is fully exposed alpine with zero shade
Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are mandatory, not optional
Make noise on the trail; this is bear country—speak or use a bear bell
Trekking poles save your knees on the rocky descent
The Bradley Lake junction at Mile 1.5 is a fork—stay left to reach Taggart Lake
Park fully off the main road if the lot is full; follow all posted parking signs

More details

Park Area: Taggart Lake Area
Trail Markers: Well-marked; the trail is popular and well-maintained, though a section is under construction in 2026.
Dogs Allowed: No; dogs are not permitted on Grand Teton trails.
Biking Allowed: No; hiking only per park regulations.
Shade Level: Mixed: shaded first half (aspen forest) with dappled light; fully exposed second half with alpine sun. The open section offers zero shade—this is a real factor in summer heat.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Accessible in winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis; full snow access typically November–April, depending on conditions.
Insider Tips: The Bradley Lake junction at Mile 1.5 is a temptation—resist it and stay left for Taggart Lake
Best light for photography is late afternoon (4–6 PM) when the Tetons catch golden hour and light rakes across the peaks
Position yourself on the rocky shoreline at the lake facing the peaks (not the parking lot side) for the iconic reflection shot
If the main lot is full, gravel shoulder parking is available; pull completely off the main road and follow all posted signs
The false lake view at Mile 2.2 isn't the summit—walk the final 0.5 miles to the lakeshore proper for the real shot
Recent Updates: A section of the Taggart Trail is closed in 2026 for trail improvements. The Lakeshore Trail in the Colter Bay area is recommended as an alternative hike.
Family Friendly Notes: This easy trail is suitable for children and families with hiking experience. The 6% average grade and consistent elevation gain are manageable for ages 8+. Rocky sections and some exposed drop-offs near the lake require close supervision of younger children.
Nearby Facilities: Nearest fuel and supplies are in Moose, approximately 30 minutes' drive from the trailhead. No facilities immediately adjacent to the trailhead.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently praise the accessible alpine views and genuine Teton panorama. The main complaint: severe summer crowding and a small parking lot. Feedback emphasizes the importance of arriving early and bringing adequate water. The 2026 closure may shift traffic temporarily.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs are not permitted on any Grand Teton trails.

Is this trail suitable for kids?

Yes, but supervision required. Children 8+ with hiking experience are fine. Younger kids need close supervision on rocky sections and near the lake edge.

Do I need a map?

The trail is well-marked, but always carry a map and GPS. Trail conditions may change in 2026 due to improvements.

How much water should I carry?

Minimum 3 liters in summer. The second half has zero shade and full sun exposure. Dehydration is your biggest risk, not the elevation.

Are there restrooms at the trailhead?

No. Use facilities at Moose (30 min drive) before you head out.

Is this trail crowded?

Yes. It's one of the most popular hikes in the park. Arrive before 7 AM to avoid the conga line, or visit on weekdays in shoulder season.

Is the trail fully open in 2026?

Partially. A section is closed for trail improvements. Check park conditions before you go. Alternative: Lakeshore Trail in Colter Bay area.