Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
390 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike boasts an enchanting experience in the Grand Teton National Park. Wander through the forestland abundant with lodgepole pines and quaking aspens to the crystalline glacial lake bound by craggy, snow-capped summits.

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Route Description for Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike

The Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Trail is a magical hike that circumscribes the lovely lake, meandering through lush forestlands and along the shoreline. Traveling into the unspoiled wilderness, it is important to be mindful of the presence of wildlife. Make sure you or someone in your party has a can of bear spray and knows how to properly use it! Though the route is open year-round, the access route to the trailhead is not, so those trekking in the winter will have to add on some distance. Note the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Setting out on your adventure from the Death Canyon Trailhead, you will briefly track the Death Canyon Trailhead Spur before diverting left onto the Valley Trail. This scenic route passes through an aisle of lodgepole pines interspersed with quaking aspens and outcrops. Soon after departing, the trailhead hikers will be granted an amazing overlook of Phelps Lake and the Jackson hole before diving down towards the shoreline. At the lakeshore, take the leftmost branch of the Phelps Lake Loop Trail and begin your hike around the perimeter of the alpine lake.

Admire the scenery of the encompassing mountains and the lush woodlands. After circumnavigating the boundary of the lake, you will reconnect with the Valley Trail and retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike Trailhead

Access this hike via the Death Canyon Trailhead off the White Grass Trailhead Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike Elevation Graph

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Death Canyon and Phelps Lake Loop Hike Reviews

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