Jenny Lake

Grand Teton's classic lake, by boat in summer and ski in winter

⏱ 3-5 hours👤 All ages$

The lake's popularity is earned but also a challenge. In summer, the South Jenny Lake parking area fills early, and cars line the road shoulders; the park asks drivers to pull completely off the pavement. The fix is simple: arrive early, or come in late afternoon when the boat lines shorten and the light softens on the peaks. If the boat line is long, walk the south shore trail one way and ride the boat back. Inspiration Point is the better payoff of the two destinations for anyone comfortable on a rocky, sometimes exposed path, and beyond it, the trail continues into Cascade Canyon, one of the park's great day hikes.

In winter, Jenny Lake feels like a different park. With the road groomed from mid-December, cross-country skiers and snowshoers travel from the Taggart Lake Trailhead parking area toward the lake, which freezes and lies quiet beneath the peaks. It is a long outing that requires good conditions, proper gear and an awareness of avalanche terrain near the canyons; check the park's winter conditions page and do not venture onto lake ice. Wildlife sightings on the way, including moose in the willows, are part of the reward.

Practicals and fit: South Jenny Lake is about 8 miles north of Moose on the Teton Park Road, reached through the Moose entrance station (a park pass is required). The shuttle boat charges a fee and operates in the warmer months. Restrooms and a visitor center are at the south end in season. Fit: first-timers, families, outdoors lovers and, for the prepared, winter skiers.