Delta Lake Trail Grand Teton National Park
A challenging 7.4-mile hike in Grand Teton National Park leading to a stunning, turquoise alpine lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Delta Lake Trail Grand Teton National Park
Best Time
Best light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 7.4-mile hike in Grand Teton National Park leading to a stunning, turquoise alpine lake.
"Definitely a hard hike, but the views were absolutely gorgeous!"
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain. Proper footwear prevents injuries.
💧 Bring plenty of water
At least 1 liter per person is recommended. Stay hydrated on this strenuous hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Delta Lake's Turquoise Waters
End of the trail
A stunning alpine lake colored by glacier silt, offering breathtaking turquoise hues. It's a rewarding sight after a challenging hike.
The Final Rock Scramble
Last 0.5 miles of the trail
An exhilarating, unofficial scramble over rocks that tests your agility and offers rewarding views as you ascend.
Panoramic Teton Views
Various points along the trail
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Grand Teton mountain range, with scenic overlooks providing perfect photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Ascent
Beat the Crowds and Secure Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain. Proper footwear prevents injuries.
💧 Bring plenty of water
At least 1 liter per person is recommended. Stay hydrated on this strenuous hike.
🗺️ Download offline maps
The last section is unmaintained; an app like AllTrails is crucial for navigation. 
🚗 Arrive before sunrise
Secure a parking spot at Lupine Meadows Trailhead, as it fills up quickly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Essential for the steep, rocky, and potentially slippery terrain. Proper footwear prevents injuries.
💧 Bring plenty of water
At least 1 liter per person is recommended. Stay hydrated on this strenuous hike.
🗺️ Download offline maps
The last section is unmaintained; an app like AllTrails is crucial for navigation.
🚗 Arrive before sunrise
Secure a parking spot at Lupine Meadows Trailhead, as it fills up quickly.
🥶 Brace for cold water
The lake is freezing, even in July. A dip is for the brave!
🐿️ Guard your snacks
Alert squirrels are known to try and steal food. Do not feed them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Delta Lake Trail is a highly rewarding but undeniably strenuous hike, praised for its spectacular turquoise lake and panoramic Teton views. While many find the challenging ascent and rocky scramble worth the effort, some visitors note it's overcrowded with unprepared hikers and can be physically demanding for those not accustomed to alpine terrain.
"Definitely a hard hike, but the views were absolutely gorgeous! It gets very very steep near the end, so be prepared for that. Bring a lot of water."
Cameron Nemeth
"This hike was a bit strenuous toward the end, but very fun with nice scenery along the way up (looking back). We saw a few mule deer. There are plenty of shady spaces to take breaks if you need them. For a trail that is partly not maintained it was easy to find/follow. The lake at the end was the perfect reward."
Tiffany Breaux
"Spectacular lake. Can look many different ways depending on the conditions. Cold water to swim in even in July. Saw someone propose here! About 8 miles and 2,300 feet in elevation gain to get there from the Lupine Meadows area of the park. Can get a bit crowded."
Nick Sullivan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Delta Lake Trail starts at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead in Grand Teton National Park. Follow signs for Lupine Meadows. Parking is free but fills up very early, often by 8 am during peak season. Arriving at sunrise is your best bet for a spot.
Public transportation options directly to the Lupine Meadows Trailhead are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a shuttle service if available in the Jackson Hole area.
The Lupine Meadows Trailhead has a parking lot that is notoriously crowded. Visitors are strongly advised to arrive as early as possible, ideally before 8 am, to secure a parking space.
The most common and recommended access point for Delta Lake is via the Lupine Meadows Trailhead. Other routes may exist but are generally more complex or less maintained.
Yes, there is a drop bathroom available at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead before you begin your hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Grand Teton National Park requires an entrance pass. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
No, the Delta Lake Trail is an unofficial and unmaintained trail. This means you won't find official signage for the last section, and it requires more careful navigation.
Grand Teton National Park is generally open year-round, but the Delta Lake Trail is best hiked during the summer and early fall months when snow has melted. There are no specific operating hours for the trail itself, but park access may have restrictions.
The cost is the Grand Teton National Park entrance fee. The hike itself is free once you are inside the park.
Hiking Delta Lake in winter is extremely challenging and not recommended for inexperienced hikers due to snow, ice, and avalanche risk. Conditions can be dangerous.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Delta Lake Trail is rated as hard. It's a strenuous 7.4-mile hike with over 2,300 feet of elevation gain, featuring a steep, unmaintained rock scramble for the final half-mile. +1
Delta Lake sits at approximately 9,016 feet (2,748 meters) above sea level. This high elevation contributes to the challenging nature of the hike.
No, pets are not allowed on the Delta Lake Trail to protect the park's wildlife and delicate ecosystem.
For seasoned hikers, the round trip can take around 4-5 hours, including breaks. For those less experienced or with a fear of heights, it could take longer.
You might spot mule deer, squirrels, and various birds. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for capturing the lake's vibrant turquoise color and the surrounding Teton peaks. Golden hour can be magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and the lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water.
The area around the lake itself offers stunning perspectives. As you ascend, various points along the trail provide panoramic views of the Teton Range.
Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Grand Teton. Check the official NPS website for current regulations before flying.
The striking turquoise color of the water, caused by glacial silt, combined with the dramatic backdrop of the Grand Tetons, makes it an incredibly picturesque destination.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, if your children are older, experienced hikers, and you are well-prepared, it could be a rewarding challenge. Ensure they have appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and are comfortable with steep ascents and descents. The stunning views might be a great motivator, but be prepared for potential meltdowns or fatigue.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own food and snacks for the hike instead of relying on expensive options in Jackson Hole. Carpooling with friends or fellow travelers can also help split the cost of park entry and fuel.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best hues and avoid harsh midday sun. Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the mountains and the lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the saturation of the water and sky.
Be prepared for a challenging hike to reach these prime photo spots, and always prioritize safety over a shot. Remember that drone photography is restricted in most National Parks, so check current regulations. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Unofficial Trail
+1 Many hikers find this part challenging due to the rocky terrain and potential for getting off-trail. Pay attention to cairns (piles of rocks) left by previous hikers, but don't rely on them solely. Be prepared for steep inclines and loose rocks. This scramble is where many hikers experience the most difficulty. It's crucial to wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and tread. Take your time, assess your footing, and don't hesitate to use your hands for balance if needed. The effort is rewarded with increasingly spectacular views as you get closer to the lake.
Community Advice: Redditors often emphasize that while the trail is 'unofficial,' it's also very popular, meaning you'll likely encounter other hikers. However, relying solely on others' paths can be risky. Always have your own navigation tool and be aware of your surroundings.
The Reward: Delta Lake's Beauty
The lake's appearance can vary significantly depending on the lighting conditions, time of day, and even the season, offering a different spectacle with each visit. Many visitors describe the lake as a perfect reward after the strenuous hike. Some brave souls even take a dip in the frigid water, which remains cold even in the height of summer.
Visual Impact: TikTok and Instagram content frequently showcases the lake's intense color, often with creators expressing awe at its beauty.
While photos and videos capture its allure, many agree that seeing Delta Lake in person is an experience that truly cannot be fully conveyed through a screen. Fitness and Preparation for the Hike
+1 With 2,300 feet of elevation gain over 7.4 miles, it requires a good level of cardiovascular fitness and leg strength. The steepness, especially in the latter half, can be demanding. Training Tips: To prepare, consider incorporating incline training on a treadmill or hiking steep hills. Practicing agility drills can also help with the rocky scramble.
Essential Gear: Beyond sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water (at least 1 liter per person), high-energy snacks, and sun protection (hat, sunscreen). Trekking poles can be beneficial for stability on the descent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit