Hidden Falls
A stunning cascade in Grand Teton National Park, easily reached by a scenic ferry ride and short hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds and long ferry waits
Hidden Falls
Best Time
Avoid crowds and long ferry waits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning cascade in Grand Teton National Park, easily reached by a scenic ferry ride and short hike.
"The falls acted like natural, refreshing air conditioning. We liked the hike and Falls."
🎯 Beat the Ferry Crowds
Take the Jenny Lake ferry early to avoid long waits.
👟 Hike or Ferry?
Choose the ferry for easy access or hike around Jenny Lake for a longer adventure.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 111 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hidden Falls Cascade
Grand Teton National Park
A dramatic waterfall cascading down a mountain face, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
Jenny Lake Ferry Ride
Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park
A scenic boat shuttle across Jenny Lake, providing easy access to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
Cascade Canyon Trail
Grand Teton National Park
A popular hiking trail offering stunning views, leading to Hidden Falls and beyond to Lake Solitude.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Hidden Falls
Getting to Hidden Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Ferry Crowds
Take the Jenny Lake ferry early to avoid long waits.
👟 Hike or Ferry?
Choose the ferry for easy access or hike around Jenny Lake for a longer adventure.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray on trails in Grand Teton.
📸 Capture the Views
Inspiration Point offers stunning vistas of the Teton Range.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Ferry Crowds
Take the Jenny Lake ferry early to avoid long waits.
👟 Hike or Ferry?
Choose the ferry for easy access or hike around Jenny Lake for a longer adventure.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Always carry bear spray on trails in Grand Teton.
📸 Capture the Views
Inspiration Point offers stunning vistas of the Teton Range.
💧 Falls as AC
The mist from Hidden Falls provides natural cooling in summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hidden Falls for its dramatic beauty and refreshing mist, especially during summer. The Jenny Lake ferry offers a convenient, scenic approach, though wait times can be significant. While the main viewpoint is easily accessible, some find the crowds detract from the natural serenity.
"Nice hike with greats views. We were there in summer and the Falls acted like natural, refreshing air conditioning. We liked the hike and Falls. The wait to get back on the boat was 50 minutes (mostly standing)."
Matthew Scout
"This review is for Hidden Falls via String Lake Trail which was a ~4.6 miles round trip that took ~2.5 hours to complete.
This was a stunning hike from beginning to end. Another popular trail but not overly crowded near end of day. Trail was narrow and flat with a few minor inclines. There was still snow after you cross the last bridge towards the viewpoint of the waterfall but do-able without spikes.
The trail does not take you up close to the waterfall but only viewable from a distance. Jenny Lake reminds me of Crater Lake in Oregon; not because of the color but due to the sheer size. Beautiful views of the Teton Range, String Lake, Jenny Lake, Hidden Falls and the surrounding area!
Carry bear spray; the chances of encountering a bear is lower at popular trails but you never know.
Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/meQ4PZFrpCg"
Ed
"This is an amazing waterfall to see if you are ever in the area. You can take the short, easy route by shuttle boat across the lake and then a short, easy hike from the boat up to Hidden Falls. Or, if you're up for a hike, take the trail that starts in the parking area and head around this pristine lake to the falls. It is a very dramatic falls as it comes over the top of the ridge, cascading down the face of the mountain.
As always, leave no trace, leave it better than you found it,and enjoy 😉."
R. Scherer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Hidden Falls by taking the Jenny Lake ferry shuttle across the lake, followed by a short hike. Alternatively, you can hike the Jenny Lake Trail or String Lake Trail to reach the falls.
The Jenny Lake ferry typically runs during the summer season. It's best to check the official Grand Teton National Park website for current operating status, as it can be affected by snow or maintenance.
The hike from the Jenny Lake ferry dock to Hidden Falls is very short, about 0.5 miles roundtrip. If you hike from the String Lake trailhead, it's approximately 4.6 miles roundtrip.
No, you cannot drive directly to Hidden Falls. Access is primarily via the Jenny Lake ferry or by hiking trails around Jenny Lake.
Parking is available at the Jenny Lake Trailhead and String Lake Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there's no specific ticket for Hidden Falls itself, you will need a park entrance pass for Grand Teton National Park. The Jenny Lake ferry also has a separate fee.
Hidden Falls is accessible during daylight hours when the park and trails are open. The Jenny Lake ferry has specific operating hours, which vary seasonally.
Ferry ticket prices can vary. It's advisable to check the official concessioner's website for the most up-to-date pricing information for the Jenny Lake ferry.
Yes, you can hike to Hidden Falls from the String Lake or Jenny Lake trailheads. This offers a longer, more immersive experience of the park's scenery.
Standard park regulations apply. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked trails, and be aware of wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visiting Hidden Falls early in the morning, shortly after the Jenny Lake ferry begins operating, is the best way to avoid the largest crowds.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes. Layers are recommended as weather can change. Bring water and snacks.
The hike from the Jenny Lake ferry is short and relatively easy, making it suitable for families. The String Lake hike is longer and may be more challenging for very young children.
The main viewpoint for Hidden Falls offers a view from a distance, not directly at the base of the falls. The trail does not lead right up to it.
Restrooms are available at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and the West Shore Boat Dock, which are near the ferry landing.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewpoint offers a classic shot of the falls. For wider scenic views including Jenny Lake and the Teton Range, consider hiking to Inspiration Point.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Try capturing the falls with the ferry in the foreground for a sense of scale, or focus on the mist and textures of the water.
Early morning light can be soft and beautiful, especially if you're looking to avoid harsh shadows. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide lovely light.
Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Grand Teton. Check the park's official regulations before flying a drone.
Social
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