Cascade Canyon
Hike through a glacier-carved canyon in Grand Teton NP, with towering walls, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Cascade Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a glacier-carved canyon in Grand Teton NP, with towering walls, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
"One of the most breathtaking and majestic hikes I've ever done."
Take the Jenny Lake Ferry
Save miles and time by taking the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake to the trailhead. :ferry:
Go Beyond Inspiration Point
The real magic of Cascade Canyon unfolds after Inspiration Point. Keep hiking for stunning scenery! :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascade Canyon's Towering Walls
Cascade Canyon
Hike between immense canyon walls that make you feel truly immersed in nature's grandeur.
Inspiration Point Views
Above Jenny Lake
A rewarding viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Jenny Lake and the surrounding Teton Range.
Hidden Falls
Near Jenny Lake
A beautiful, accessible waterfall cascading down the rocks, a perfect short stop on your hike.
Lake Solitude
End of Cascade Canyon Trail
The ultimate destination for a longer hike, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on the Cascade Canyon Trail
Wildlife Safety in Cascade Canyon
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Take the Jenny Lake Ferry
Save miles and time by taking the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake to the trailhead. :ferry:
Go Beyond Inspiration Point
The real magic of Cascade Canyon unfolds after Inspiration Point. Keep hiking for stunning scenery! :hiking_boot:
Pack Bear Spray!
Essential for safety in bear and moose country. Know how to use it. :bear:
Start Before 9 AM
To avoid the biggest crowds on the popular Cascade Canyon trail, start your hike early. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Take the Jenny Lake Ferry
Save miles and time by taking the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake to the trailhead. :ferry:
Go Beyond Inspiration Point
The real magic of Cascade Canyon unfolds after Inspiration Point. Keep hiking for stunning scenery! :hiking_boot:
Pack Bear Spray!
Essential for safety in bear and moose country. Know how to use it. :bear:
Start Before 9 AM
To avoid the biggest crowds on the popular Cascade Canyon trail, start your hike early. :clock1:
Bring Layers & Sun Protection
Weather can change quickly. Pack a light jacket, hat, bug spray, and sunscreen. :sunwithface:
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, stay on trails, and respect the environment. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cascade Canyon for its breathtaking scenery and immersive natural beauty, with many calling it one of the most majestic hikes they've ever experienced. The towering canyon walls and opportunities for wildlife sightings are major highlights. Some find the hike challenging, and crowds can be significant, especially without early starts.
"It is a beautiful hike up to inspiration point but you are TRULY MISSING OUT if you do not hike just 1 more mile into cascade canyon, as the view there is amazing. The extra 1 mile into cascade canyon is a lot easier as it is relatively flat. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the boat shuttle, the hike up to hidden falls and inspiration point, and especially cascade canyon."
N W
"One of the best hikes I have ever done. Definitely take the extra time and go beyond Inspiration Point for at least another 35m-1h, the deeper you go into the canyon the more you feel in tune with nature. Stunning place ⛰️❤️"
Marco S.
"I was in awe the entire time I was in this canyon, one of the most breathtaking and majestic hikes I've ever done. The canyon walls are so close and tower above you as you make your way through the canyon that it almost doesn't feel natural. We were able to see a couple of moose and a black bear about 20 yards off the trail. Unfortunately we were not able to complete the hike, so I will be back to do the entire thing."
Juston Goldade
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to access the Cascade Canyon trailhead is by taking the Jenny Lake Ferry shuttle boat across Jenny Lake from the visitor center. Alternatively, you can hike around the lake or drive to the String Lake trailhead and hike from there. The ferry is highly recommended to save time and energy for the main hike.
Yes, there is parking available at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center, but it fills up very quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider using the park's shuttle system if available.
You cannot drive directly into Cascade Canyon. The primary access point for the main trail is via the Jenny Lake Ferry or by hiking from the Jenny Lake area.
Cascade Canyon is located within Grand Teton National Park. From Jackson, you can drive north on US-89/US-191/US-26. The drive to the Jenny Lake area takes about 35-45 minutes.
The Jenny Lake Ferry is the primary shuttle service that takes visitors across the lake to the trailhead for Cascade Canyon. It's a popular option and tickets can sell out.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid entrance pass for Grand Teton National Park is required. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
The Jenny Lake Ferry operates seasonally and has a fee. It's best to check the official Grand Teton National Park website for current pricing and operating hours.
Yes, you can hike to Cascade Canyon without taking the ferry by starting from the Jenny Lake trailhead and hiking around the lake, or from the String Lake trailhead. However, this adds significant mileage to your hike.
Cascade Canyon is within Grand Teton National Park, so the park entrance fee applies. There are no separate fees specifically for entering the canyon itself.
Jenny Lake Ferry tickets are typically available for purchase at the West Shore Boat Dock. It's advisable to arrive early, as they can sell out, especially during peak times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Inspiration Point is moderate, but continuing into Cascade Canyon becomes more challenging with elevation gain. The trail to Lake Solitude is considered strenuous, covering over 14 miles roundtrip with significant elevation gain. +1
A hike to Inspiration Point and the beginning of Cascade Canyon can take 2-4 hours. Hiking to Lake Solitude and back can take 6-10 hours, depending on your pace and stops.
You have a good chance of seeing moose and black bears in Cascade Canyon. You might also spot deer, elk, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance.
Yes, many people hike Cascade Canyon solo. However, it's crucial to be prepared for wildlife encounters, carry bear spray, and let someone know your hiking plans.
Beyond Inspiration Point, the further you venture into Cascade Canyon, the more spectacular the views become. The area around the forks of the canyon and the final destination, Lake Solitude, offer breathtaking scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire canyon offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include the views from Inspiration Point, the dramatic canyon walls, Hidden Falls, and the serene Lake Solitude. Capture wildlife from a safe distance. +1
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast canyon landscapes. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is restricted in Grand Teton National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest NPS regulations before flying.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower vantage point can emphasize the height of the canyon walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children or those seeking a longer day, hiking a portion of the Cascade Canyon Trail is feasible. Focus on the flatter sections near the beginning of the canyon. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. Keep a close eye on children, especially near wildlife and steep drop-offs.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Backpackers
Consider extending your hike to Paintbrush Canyon for a more extensive loop, or explore the less-traveled paths deeper within the canyon. Remember to obtain any necessary backcountry permits if you plan to camp overnight. Proper preparation, including navigation skills and carrying essential gear, is crucial for these longer excursions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For wildlife photography, patience is key. Keep your telephoto lens ready for potential sightings of moose and bears. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens to capture intimate moments without disturbing the animals. Drone photography is generally prohibited within the national park, so check current regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Cascade Canyon Trail
Continuing past Inspiration Point, the trail enters the heart of Cascade Canyon. Here, the canyon walls rise steeply on either side, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The trail becomes more challenging but rewards hikers with increasingly spectacular scenery. Many visitors choose to hike to the forks of the canyon, where the trail splits, or continue further to the pristine Lake Solitude, a more strenuous but incredibly rewarding destination.
Key considerations for hiking Cascade Canyon include carrying bear spray due to frequent wildlife sightings (moose and bears are common), wearing sturdy hiking boots, and packing plenty of water and snacks. The trail can be busy, so starting early, especially before 9 AM, is highly recommended to avoid crowds.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you pack in and staying on marked trails.Wildlife Encounters in Cascade Canyon
Black bears and grizzly bears also inhabit this area. While sightings are not guaranteed, it's essential to be prepared. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Making noise while hiking can help alert bears to your presence and avoid surprise encounters. Solo hikers should be particularly aware of their surroundings.
Other wildlife you might encounter include mule deer, elk, and various bird species. Remember that these are wild animals, and their behavior can be unpredictable. Never feed wildlife, and always keep a safe distance to ensure both your safety and theirs.
The Cascade Canyon Train Experience (Durango, Colorado)
+1This train journey is a unique way to experience the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies. The route follows the Animas River, passing through remote wilderness and offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, especially during winter. The Cascade Canyon Winter Train is particularly magical, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.
Pro tips for the train ride include reserving a seat on the back of the train for the best panoramic views, allowing you to see the full length of the train and the steam against the scenery. The ride is typically around 5.25 hours, making it a substantial day trip.
+1 This experience is a fantastic alternative for those seeking scenic beauty without strenuous hiking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit