Valley Trail Phelps Lake - 13.2mi Strenuous Hike

Q: Is this safe to hike alone?

Yes, with caveats. Cell service is unreliable; if you fall, rescue may be slow. Hike with a partner if possible, carry a map, tell someone your plan, and start early enough to exit by daylight.

Q: Do I need special gear or equipment?

Yes: proper hiking boots (not trail runners), trekking poles to reduce knee strain, a map (cell service unreliable), 3+ liters of water, and a rain jacket. Altitude can sneak up; bring layers.

Q: What if I'm fit but haven't done serious elevation gain?

Elevation is a different beast than flat distance. 2,360 feet over 6.6 miles is a grind. Many fit runners bonk on this trail. Start conservatively, take breaks, and don't let ego override your body's signals.

Q: Can I turn back at any point?

Yes. The trail is out-and-back, so you can bail at any milestone and return the same way. Better to turn back tired than summit fatigued and risk a dangerous descent.

Q: What time of year is safest?

Late June through September is the safe window. Snow blocks sections before June; winter storms and cold are serious hazards. Summer brings thunderstorms; hike early and be off high terrain by 2 PM.

Distance

13.2 mi

Elevation Gain

2,360 ft

Est. Time

7-9 hours for fit hikers; 9-11 hours with rest and photo breaks

Route Type

Out and back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late spring through fall (June–September); snow blocks higher elevations before June

Overview

About This Trail

The Valley Trail from Teton Village to Phelps Lake Overlook is a lung-busting 13.2-mile out-and-back climb with 2,360 feet of elevation gain through alpine forests. The 17% average slope with exposed roots and rocks demands constant attention to footwork and serious fitness. The payoff is a high-altitude vantage over the park's valley lakes. Be honest: this is a beast of a day hike for experienced hikers only.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous—lung-busting elevation and distance

Trail Highlights

Phelps Lake Overlook—a high-altitude vantage point over the park's valley lakes and the distant Teton range. The visual reward justifies the sustained grind.

Insider Tips

• The first 2–3 miles via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails are easier than the Valley Trail proper; don't let that fool you—the real grind starts at the official Valley Trail junction • The overlook itself is modest; the reward is the vantage over the lakes below, not a grand vista • The descent is often harder on quads than the ascent; save energy and go slow on the way down • Afternoon weather above 8,000 feet deteriorates fast; be off high terrain by 2 PM

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through fall (June–September); snow blocks higher elevations before June

Hiking Tips

Carry 3+ liters of water; altitude and distance dehydrate fast
Wear proper hiking boots with ankle support for exposed roots and loose rocks
Trekking poles reduce knee strain on the brutal descent
Bring a map; cell service is unreliable at elevation
Layer up—weather at the overlook is 15-20°F colder than the trailhead
Start pre-dawn if possible; don't underestimate the 13.2 miles

Family Info

Not recommended for most families with young children. The distance (13+ miles), sustained elevation gain, and trail hazards (roots, rocks, exposure) require experienced hikers and strong fitness. Older children (12+) with serious hiking experience may manage with close supervision and frequent breaks.

What Hikers Say

This is a serious alpine day hike that separates committed hikers from tourists. The elevation gain is relentless, and the last 2 miles punish quads, but the overlook vantage justifies the effort. Most experienced hikers rate it brutal but worth it; beginners should skip it entirely.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 13.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,360 ft

Duration: 7-9 hours for fit hikers; 9-11 hours with rest and photo breaks

Difficulty: Strenuous—lung-busting elevation and distance

Route Type: Out and back

Surface: Exposed roots, rocks, and uneven alpine forest trail. Steep, rough sections throughout.

Getting There

Trailhead: Ranch Lot at Teton Village; hike begins via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails to the Valley Trail junction

Requirements

Permit Required

Backcountry permits required for overnight stays. Apply at https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/bcres.htm. Day hiking does not require a permit.

Fees: $35 per vehicle (Grand Teton National Park entrance fee)

Trail Rules

Dogs: No—park regulations prohibit dogs on all hiking trails

Biking: No—hiking only

Trail Markers: Trail is well-established but markers are sparse at higher elevations. A map is strongly recommended.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No water sources on trail. Carry all water needed (minimum 3 liters recommended for this distance and elevation).

Shade: Partial shade in alpine forests below 8,000 feet; increasing exposure at higher elevations. No protection from afternoon sun or weather at the overlook.

Hazards:

The 17% average slope with 2,360 ft elevation gain creates sustained steep climbing that tests endurance. Exposed roots and rocks throughout demand careful footwork and proper boots. Above 8,000 feet, weather can deteriorate rapidly—afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Altitude thins oxygen; most hikers feel it by mile 8.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Strenuous 13.2-mile out-and-back with 2,360 feet elevation gain and 17% average slope. Extensive exposed roots and rocks throughout. Not wheelchair accessible. Not suitable for casual walkers or those with limited mobility.

Family Notes:

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this trail with no hiking experience?

No. This is strictly for experienced hikers. The combination of distance (13.2 mi), elevation (2,360 ft), trail obstacles, and altitude will break beginners. Honest answer: don't start your hiking career here.

Is this safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear or equipment?

What if I'm fit but haven't done serious elevation gain?

Can I turn back at any point?

What time of year is safest?