Written by Brendan Barnard, Program Coordinator – Camping
Summer in the Tetons is a fleeting burst of sunshine, wildflowers, and warmth, arriving tepidly through the gradual thaw of late May and early June, and vanishing swiftly as the first breezes of autumn sweep the valley in September. Given the brief Teton summer, locals and visitors alike are eager to get out and explore the park, taking full advantage of the splendor these golden months provide in one of our nation’s most spectacular wilderness areas. One of the best ways to experience this vibrant summer landscape is by embarking on an overnight backpacking journey, reaching remote spots only accessible on foot and camping deep in the backcountry.
Given the brevity of the summer season, it’s essential to make the most of your backpacking adventure in the Tetons. With a vast network of trails and campsites, deciding where to begin planning your trip can be overwhelming. At Teton Science Schools, we’ve had the great privilege of leading students on backpacking trips throughout the Teton range since our founding in the summer of 1967. Today, we scout routes throughout the park in order to plan and execute the best possible experiences for our students. Just like public lands, backcountry beta is best when shared, so use the guide below to plan a trip that will let you make the most of your time backpacking the majestic Teton Range!
Best for Lake Views
String Lake to Leigh Lake
Starting at the Leigh Lake Trailhead, a level trail with gentle terrain will lead you along the shores of String Lake and Leigh Lake. Enjoy views of Mount Moran and Paintbrush Canyon across the water before arriving at one of Leigh Lake’s beachfront backcountry campsites. Watch the sunset across the lake and fall asleep to the sounds of waves lapping the shore before a quick hike out in the morning.
Trip Length: 2 days/1 night
Total Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Best for Catching Sunrise
Amphitheater and Surprise Lakes
Begin your journey at the Lupine Meadows trailhead, where a series of winding switchbacks will lead you upward from the valley floor. As you ascend, take in the view of planes lifting off and landing at Jackson Hole Airport, while sharing the trail with determined climbers on their way to summit the legendary Grand Teton. The effort will be rewarded when you reach the stunning Surprise and Amphitheater Lakes. Be sure to roll out of your tent early the following morning to witness first light illuminating the peaks with breathtaking alpenglow.
Trip Length: 2 days/1 night
Total Distance: 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for Wildflower Viewing
Death Canyon Loop
Begin at the Death Canyon Trailhead, making your way past Phelps Lake and continuing up the canyon to the campsites of Death Canyon Camping Zone. The following day, head southwest through meadows that come alive with vibrant wildflowers in July. After passing Marion Lake, start your loop back, camping overnight at the Granite/Mt. Hunt Camping Zone before descending through Open Canyon and passing Phelps Lake once again en route to your car.
Trip Length: 3 days/2 nights
Total Distance: 25 miles
Elevation Gain: 6,600 feet
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult
Best for Mountain Views
Paintbrush-Cascade Canyon Loop
For some of the most breathtaking mountain views the Tetons have to offer, begin at the String Lake Trailhead and head up Paintbrush Canyon. After a challenging ascent, you’ll earn a restful night at either the Upper Paintbrush Camping Zone or at one of the campsites along Holly Lake’s shores. The next morning, cross the 10,720-foot Paintbrush Divide and you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Tetons’ highest peaks as you descend into Cascade Canyon. Following the trail to the serene shores of Jenny Lake, where a gentle walk will bring you back to the trailhead.
Trip Length: 2 days/1 nights
Total Distance: 18 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,600 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
Each summer, our staff treasures the opportunity to share the challenges, awe, and wonder of a backpacking trip in the Teton Range with students . While we love leading these trips with the groups we reach, we hope this guide sparks your own awe-inspiring adventures in the incredible backyard we call home. If you’re heading into the backcountry, be sure to have the necessary permits, equipment, and prior experience to ensure a positive trip for yourself and for others who enjoy these shared spaces.
