Phelps Lake Trail Grand Teton National Park
A moderate 7-mile loop hike to a serene mountain lake, offering wildlife sightings and the thrilling option of cliff jumping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Phelps Lake Trail Grand Teton National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A moderate 7-mile loop hike to a serene mountain lake, offering wildlife sightings and the thrilling option of cliff jumping.
"The lake and surrounding scenery is beautiful and it's a good way to burn some calories for a few hours."
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive before 9 AM at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve lot. It fills fast!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 126 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Phelps Lake Jumping Rock
Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve
Take a thrilling 30-foot leap into the crystal-clear waters of Phelps Lake. A unique adventure for the brave!
Phelps Lake Overlook
Trail to the lake
Stunning panoramic views of Phelps Lake and the surrounding Teton Range. Perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.
Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the trail
Keep an eye out for moose, deer, bears, and various bird species. A true immersion into the wild heart of the Tetons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Phelps Lake
Wildlife Encounters & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive before 9 AM at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve lot. It fills fast!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail has many rocks; good hiking shoes are a must for careful footing.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources on the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Key!
Arrive before 9 AM at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve lot. It fills fast!
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on the trail.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail has many rocks; good hiking shoes are a must for careful footing.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. There are no water sources on the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The lake and mountain vistas are breathtaking.
🦮 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Phelps Lake Trail for its stunning natural beauty and the rewarding experience of reaching the lake. Many enjoy the opportunity for wildlife sightings and the refreshing swim at the Jumping Rock. While the trail is generally well-maintained, some note the rocky terrain and the need for careful footing. Parking can be a significant challenge, requiring very early arrival.
"We hiked close to 7 miles total. The trails were well marked and not super challenging, but there were quite a few rocks that you need to choose your footing carefully along the trail. We saw a moose, a bear cub, several deer, and geese along the way. I loved it, honestly. The lake and surrounding scenery is beautiful and it's a good way to burn some calories for a few hours."
Murph
"A fairly simple hike with a gorgeous lake at the end! I'm a very active person but still enjoyed the hike - didn't find it boring.. It's mid-May and the paths were clear and dry with just little piles of snow here and there."
m.e. h
"With multiple well defined, different trails to choose from. You can choose an all day hike, or a couple hour excursion. The staff were friendly but they a small parking lot, so we had to wait in the parking line for about 30min. I can't wait to go there again."
Greg Furlong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access point for the Phelps Lake Trail is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, located off the Moose Wilson Road. The parking lot here fills very early, often by 9 AM, so an early start is crucial. 
Yes, there is a parking lot at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. However, it is quite small and can fill up rapidly, especially during peak season. It's recommended to arrive as early as possible, ideally before 9 AM, to secure a spot. Vehicles up to 23 feet long and 8 feet wide are permitted.
While both Phelps Lake and Jenny Lake are popular destinations in Grand Teton National Park, they are accessed via different trailheads. The main access for Phelps Lake is the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, whereas Jenny Lake has its own visitor center and access points.
The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve is accessible via the Moose Wilson Road. This scenic road winds through the park and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. Be prepared for a slower drive due to the road's nature and potential animal crossings.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to the Phelps Lake trailhead at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. Parking is the primary method of access, emphasizing the need for early arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Grand Teton National Park entrance pass is required to access the park and hike the Phelps Lake Trail. Passes can be purchased at park entrance stations or online in advance.
While there is no separate fee for the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve itself, you will need a Grand Teton National Park entrance pass to access the road leading to it and the preserve facilities.
The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve typically opens in the morning and closes in the evening. It's best to check the official Grand Teton National Park website for the most current operating hours, as they can vary seasonally.
No, parking at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve is on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not available, which is why arriving early is highly recommended.
While there are no specific entry time restrictions for the trail itself once you've parked, the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve parking lot has limited capacity and often reaches full capacity by mid-morning.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Phelps Lake Trail loop is approximately 7 miles roundtrip. There are also shorter options, such as the Phelps Lake Overlook trail, which is much shorter and offers great views.
The Phelps Lake Trail is generally considered moderate. While there isn't extreme elevation gain, the trail can be rocky in places, requiring careful footing. The overlook trail is easier.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Phelps Lake, and it's a popular activity, especially near the jumping rock. The water is cold but refreshing on a warm day.
You have a good chance of spotting wildlife such as moose, deer, black bears, and various bird species along the Phelps Lake Trail. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed the animals.
The Phelps Lake Trail can get crowded, especially during peak season and on weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
The Phelps Lake Overlook offers stunning panoramic views. The lake itself, especially with the Teton Range in the background, is incredibly photogenic. The jumping rock area also provides unique photo opportunities.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is restricted in Grand Teton National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Please check the official park regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
While the entire lake offers beautiful views, the Phelps Lake Overlook is a prime spot for both sunrise and sunset. The Jumping Rock area also provides dramatic lighting during these times.
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