Unlikely if you stay on the main trail. NPS markers are generally clear, though dense underbrush can obscure signs in places. Bring a map or offline GPS as backup. The loop is logical—follow the shoreline around Two Ocean Lake, hit Grand View Point, descend to Emma Matilda Lake, and loop back.

Mosquitos are relentless year-round, especially June through August. Bring DEET-based insect repellent and apply generously. Long sleeves and pants help. The mud and marshy terrain breed mosquitos in millions. Early morning or dusk hiking is worst. Midday (10 AM–4 PM) is slightly better when bugs are less active.

Late June through September. July and August have best weather but also most crowds and bugs. September is quieter and slightly less buggy. Avoid pre-July (snow, mud) and post-September (cold, shorter days). Early morning starts are critical regardless of season.

Two Ocean Lake Loop - 13.2mi Strenuous Hike

Q: Are there bears or wildlife?

Yes. This is wild backcountry. Make noise constantly—talk, clap, wear a bear bell. Store food in bear canisters. Stay calm if you encounter wildlife; back away slowly. Never get between a mother and cubs. Grizzlies and black bears both inhabit this area.

Q: How much water should I bring?

Minimum 3 liters. The landscape is wet and marshy, so water is available for filtering along the route. Carry a lightweight filter. In a pinch, springs and creeks (though muddy) are drinkable after treatment. Don't rely solely on trailside water; start with a full load.

Distance

13.2 mi

Elevation Gain

1,960 ft

Est. Time

7-9 hours depending on fitness and stop frequency. Add time if trail is muddy or you stop frequently.

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Summer and Fall

Overview

About This Trail

This 13.2-mile strenuous loop circles both Two Ocean and Emma Matilda Lakes with 1,960 feet of elevation gain. The highlight is Grand View Point at mile 7, offering panoramic views of both lakes and Jackson Hole. Early to mid-summer brings wildflower blooms, but expect muddy terrain and intense mosquito pressure. Most hikers report the climb is relentless but the scenery justifies the pain.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous

Trail Highlights

Circle both Two Ocean and Emma Matilda Lakes. The trail crests at Grand View Point, offering panoramic 360-degree views of both lakes and Jackson Hole. Early to mid-summer brings wildflower displays brightening the landscape along the descent to Emma Matilda Lake.

Insider Tips

• Grand View Point at mile 7 is the payoff—panoramic 360-degree views; don't rush it. • The trail is often muddy; gaiters or waterproof boots help. • Mosquitos peak in early morning and dusk; hike midday if possible. • The descent to Emma Matilda Lake is steep on joints—trekking poles are essential. • Water is plentiful (marshy terrain) but must be filtered. • Consider a slower 9-10 hour pace over rushing.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and Fall

Hiking Tips

Bring 3L+ water minimum; filter at creek crossings.
Trekking poles are essential for descent and mud sections.
Wear DEET insect repellent; mosquitos are relentless year-round.
Start at dawn.
Never hike alone; this is remote terrain.
Pack high-calorie snacks for 8+ hours.
Avoid pre-July due to snow and mud.
Make noise for bears (clap, bell, talk).

Family Info

Not recommended for young children due to distance (13.2 miles), elevation gain (1,960 ft), and narrow sections with dense underbrush. Intermediate to advanced fitness required. Older teens (14+) with solid hiking experience can succeed with early start and slow pace.

What Hikers Say

Hikers consistently report that the 1,960-foot elevation gain is punishing, but the panoramic views at Grand View Point make it worth the suffering. Most emphasize muddy conditions early season and relentless mosquito pressure. Veterans recommend starting before dawn and bringing double normal water quantity.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 13.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,960 ft

Duration: 7-9 hours depending on fitness and stop frequency. Add time if trail is muddy or you stop frequently.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Dirt and rock with dense underbrush; muddy and marshy sections. Narrow path in places. Average slope 5%.

Getting There

Trailhead: Two Ocean Lake Trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required. Day-use only.

Fees: $35 entrance fee for Grand Teton National Park (7-day pass, private vehicle)

Shuttle Available

Not required. Drive to the Two Ocean Lake Trailhead.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No. Pets are not permitted on this trail.

Biking: No. Hiking only.

Trail Markers: Standard NPS trail markers; generally well-marked but dense underbrush can obscure signs in places.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Filter at creek crossings along the route. The landscape is wet and marshy, so water is available for filtering. Carry a lightweight filter and 3L+ capacity. Treat all water before drinking.

Shade: Variable. Dense underbrush provides some shade on narrow sections, but significant open, exposed sections exist. Wear sunscreen and a hat.

Hazards:

The 1,960-foot elevation gain is relentless and will challenge most hikers. Muddy and marshy areas are common, especially early season, sapping energy and slowing pace. The narrow path through dense underbrush creates navigation challenges and claustrophobia risk. Mosquitos are intense year-round due to wet landscape. Limited shade on exposed sections increases dehydration risk. This is remote backcountry—if injured, help is far away.

Emergency: Contact Park Headquarters or nearest ranger station. In emergencies, call 911 if service is available.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy on peak summer weekends; quieter mid-week and in fall

Peak Times: Summer weekends (July-August), especially mid-morning to mid-afternoon

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Moderately strenuous 13.2-mile loop with 1,960 feet of elevation gain and average slope of 5%. The trail has various obstacles and a narrow path through dense underbrush. Not accessible for those with mobility restrictions or limited fitness.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Colter Bay Visitor Center is the nearest visitor facility. Supplies available at Dornans in Moose area (distance not specified in data).

What Hikers Say

FAQs

How hard is this trail? Can I do it?

It's strenuous. The 1,960-foot elevation gain over 13.2 miles is serious work. Most fit hikers complete it in 8-9 hours. If you're experienced with 10+ mile days and have trained for elevation, you can do it. Be honest about fitness; bailing at mile 8 after sinking hours is miserable.

Will I get lost?

Are there bears or wildlife?

How much water should I bring?

What about bugs?

When should I go?

📖 National Park Service — Two Ocean Lake - Emma Matilda Lake Loop (official page) (checked 2026-06-12) 📖 National Park Service — Grand Teton National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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