Death Canyon Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
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.
8.5-12h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
30.1 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.
1,156 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Death Canyon Trail is an epic overnight expedition or challenging day-hike in the Grand Teton National Park. Travelling through a variety of terrains in Death Canyon, hikers will have the opportunity to wander amongst wildlife, lush vegetation, and nearby charming snowmelt streams.

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Route Description for Death Canyon Trail

Those seeking a demanding adventure in the Grand Tetons National Park have come to the correct place. The impressively scenic Death Canyon Hike is no walk in the park, reserved for intrepid spirits and experienced hikers only. Traveling deep into the wilderness, wildlife encounters are possible, so make sure you have a can of bear spray and know how to properly use it! Additionally, if you are venturing this route as a day-hike, be sure to head out before dawn to return before nightfall. Note the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Setting out from the Death Canyon Trailhead, the Death Canyon Hike follows the Death Canyon Trailhead Spur briefly before merging left onto the Valley Trail. This lovely route travels to a scenic overlook of Phelps Lake before confronting an intersection. Here, keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Death Canyon Trail. This steep trail climbs through the craggy canyon along Death Canyon Creek. Traveling west, the route will weave between montane meadows, lodgepole pines and boulder gardens.

As you progress further into the canyon, the tree canopy will become increasingly sparse, and you will pass several backcountry campsites. Hiking amongst the mountains, you will ultimately reach the path’s end at Fox Creek Pass. From here, turn around and head back to the trailhead the way you came.

Check out the Death Canyon to Patrol Cabin Hike for ​​a shorter variation of this route!

Getting to the Death Canyon Trail Trailhead

The Death Canyon Trail is accessed via the Death Canyon Trailhead off the White Grass Trailhead Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, wilderness permits required.

  • When to do

    May-September

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Death Canyon Trail Elevation Graph

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