Jenny Lake
A glacial lake in Grand Teton National Park, renowned for its stunning Teton Range reflections and access to popular hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Jenny Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A glacial lake in Grand Teton National Park, renowned for its stunning Teton Range reflections and access to popular hiking trails.
"The prettiest area in the Tetons, with stunning views and rewarding hikes."
🚗 Parking is a Nightmare!
Arrive early or be prepared to park along the road. Weekdays are better than weekends.
🚤 Take the Boat Shuttle
Saves time and energy for hikes to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jenny Lake Trail
South end of Jenny Lake
An easy, scenic loop offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range reflected in the crystal-clear water.
Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point
West side of Jenny Lake (accessible via boat shuttle or hike)
Witness the powerful Hidden Falls and climb to Inspiration Point for panoramic vistas of the lake and valley.
Cascade Canyon Trail
West side of Jenny Lake (beyond Hidden Falls)
An extension of the Jenny Lake hike, this trail leads into a majestic canyon with stunning mountain scenery.
Jenny Lake Overlook
Jenny Lake Scenic Drive
A easily accessible viewpoint offering iconic, postcard-perfect views of Jenny Lake and the Teton peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Jenny Lake
Essential Hikes and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a Nightmare!
Arrive early or be prepared to park along the road. Weekdays are better than weekends.
🚤 Take the Boat Shuttle
Saves time and energy for hikes to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point.
🥾 Hike Beyond Inspiration Point
Cascade Canyon offers incredible views and is less crowded than the immediate Inspiration Point area.
☀️ Best Sun for Water
Visit earlier in the day for full sunshine on the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a Nightmare!
Arrive early or be prepared to park along the road. Weekdays are better than weekends.
🚤 Take the Boat Shuttle
Saves time and energy for hikes to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point.
🥾 Hike Beyond Inspiration Point
Cascade Canyon offers incredible views and is less crowded than the immediate Inspiration Point area.
☀️ Best Sun for Water
Visit earlier in the day for full sunshine on the water.
🛶 Kayaking/Boating Permits
Ensure you have both WY State and National Park permits for your watercraft.
🐾 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for animals, especially on less crowded trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jenny Lake for its breathtaking beauty and stunning Teton views, calling it one of the prettiest spots in the park. While the scenery is universally loved, many note that the area can become extremely crowded, particularly around the visitor center and boat shuttle, making early morning or late afternoon visits advisable.
"This was very pretty. But very busy. Alot of people at the visitor center and in the shops and waiting in line to take the boat across for the hikes but we just took the trails to the lake and there was absolutely nobody at the lake, it was absolutely quiet & peaceful."
Christy Hawkins
"Beautiful clear water! We brought kayaks and used the boat launch to get on the water. Stunning views and not too crowded (Monday around 5pm). Saw lots of hikers on Jenny Lake trail. This time of year I would recommend going earlier in the day so you can enjoy the water in full sunshine. We were in shade on our way back to the boat launch but still a great time. If you bring your own, make sure you have both passes (WY State and National Park permit) and the inspection done at the entrance."
Arianna Mills
"Would say that this area is the prettiest in the Tetons. 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
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jenny Lake is located within Grand Teton National Park, about a 35-minute drive north of Jackson Hole. Take Teton Park Road and follow signs for Jenny Lake. Parking can be challenging, so arriving early is highly recommended.
From Jackson, head north on US-89/US-191/US-26. Turn right onto Teton Park Road and follow it towards Jenny Lake. The Jenny Lake Visitor Center is a good landmark.
While there isn't direct public transportation to Jenny Lake itself, the Jackson Hole area has limited bus services. Many visitors opt to drive or use ride-sharing services if available. Renting a car is the most common and convenient way to access Jenny Lake.
The distance from Jackson Hole to Jenny Lake is approximately 25-30 miles, taking about 35-40 minutes to drive, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, there are bike paths and roads within Grand Teton National Park that can lead you to Jenny Lake. Some visitors enjoy biking the scenic park roads. Check with the park for designated bike trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Jenny Lake is within Grand Teton National Park, so a valid park entrance pass is required for all visitors. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or online in advance.
Jenny Lake itself is accessible year-round, but facilities like the Visitor Center and boat shuttle have seasonal operating hours. The park roads are generally open from late spring through fall. Always check the official Grand Teton National Park website for current hours and closures.
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle operates seasonally and has a fee. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Grand Teton National Park concessioner's website for the most up-to-date Jenny Lake ferry price information.
Typically, tickets for the Jenny Lake boat shuttle are purchased on-site at the West Shore Boat Dock. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as lines can form.
The entrance fee is for Grand Teton National Park as a whole. Once inside the park, access to trails like Jenny Lake Trail, Hidden Falls, and Inspiration Point is generally included with your park pass.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Jenny Lake Trail is an easy loop. For more challenging hikes with rewarding views, consider the trails to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, or continue into Cascade Canyon.
Jenny Lake can get very crowded, especially during peak summer months and on weekends. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
Besides hiking, you can enjoy scenic drives along Jenny Lake, take a boat shuttle across the lake, kayak or paddleboard (with proper permits), and visit the Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
Swimming is generally permitted in Jenny Lake, but be aware of the cold water temperatures. Always check park regulations for any specific advisories or restrictions.
Yes, the Jenny Lake Trail is relatively flat and suitable for families. The boat shuttle is also a fun experience for children. Longer hikes may be more challenging for very young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at Jenny Lake. The Jenny Lake Lodge offers dining, and there are more extensive options in nearby Jackson Hole. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and water for hikes.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. There are designated picnic areas, or you can find a scenic spot along the lake. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The Jenny Lake Visitor Center typically has a small gift shop with some snacks and drinks, but it's not a full-service restaurant. For more substantial meals, plan to visit Jackson Hole or other park lodges.
Jenny Lake Lodge offers accommodations and dining. Other options include lodges within Grand Teton National Park or hotels and cabins in nearby Jackson Hole. +1
Pack plenty of water, high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit. If planning a longer hike, consider sandwiches or other portable meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jenny Lake Overlook offers iconic shots. The shores of Jenny Lake itself provide stunning reflections, and Inspiration Point offers panoramic views. The Jenny Lake boat dock area also provides great photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. However, midday can also be stunning with clear blue skies and vibrant water. Consider the light for reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone usage is restricted in most National Parks, including Grand Teton. Always check the official National Park Service regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
Explore less crowded areas, hike further into Cascade Canyon, or visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer people and potentially more dramatic light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for crowds. Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours to make the experience more enjoyable. The Jenny Lake Visitor Center can also provide junior ranger programs or other kid-friendly activities.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying trail conditions and elevations. Always carry the ten essentials, including plenty of water, food, and bear spray. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before you go. The Jenny Lake boat shuttle can help you access trailheads more efficiently.
📸 Photographers
Utilize a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and consider a telephoto lens for wildlife. A polarizing filter will enhance the colors. For unique perspectives, explore areas beyond the main viewpoints or visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and softer light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle
Many visitors opt to take the shuttle one way and hike back, or vice versa, to experience different perspectives. The shuttle ride itself offers beautiful views of the lake and the Teton Range. It's a convenient option for those who want to maximize their time exploring the trails without the longer trek around the lake.
Pro Tip: If you plan to hike further into Cascade Canyon, the boat shuttle is almost essential to make it a manageable day trip. It allows you to reach the trailhead for Cascade Canyon much faster, giving you more time to explore the canyon's depths.
Hiking Trails Around Jenny Lake
The most popular hikes from the west shore (accessible by boat shuttle or a longer hike around the lake) are to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Hidden Falls is a beautiful, cascading waterfall, and Inspiration Point provides a panoramic overlook of Jenny Lake and the valley below. These are often done as a combined hike.
For those seeking a more challenging and rewarding experience, extending your hike from Inspiration Point into Cascade Canyon is highly recommended. This trail leads you deeper into the heart of the Teton Range, offering dramatic scenery, potential wildlife sightings, and a sense of true wilderness. The hike to Lake Solitude from Cascade Canyon is a longer, but incredibly scenic option.
Best Photography Spots and Tips
For more dynamic shots, consider the shores of Jenny Lake itself. The clear, calm water often creates stunning reflections of the mountains, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The Jenny Lake boat dock area also offers unique angles and perspectives.
To capture the grandeur of the landscape, a wide-angle lens is highly recommended. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens can be invaluable. Remember to bring a polarizing filter to enhance the vibrant blues of the water and sky and reduce glare. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or very early/late in the day can also help you capture unique shots with fewer crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit