Garnet Canyon to Lower Saddle Hike

Route Description for Garnet Canyon to Lower Saddle Hike

Reserved for experienced hikers with a good fitness level, the Garnet Canyon to Lower Saddle Hike will get your heart racing. This challenging adventure rationalizes the technicality with gobsmacking views of the alpine terrain. Note sections of this path towards the lower saddle require scrambling and careful footing. Additionally, it is important to be bear aware as you climb through the canyon—make sure to have a can of bear spray within reach! When tackling this trek as a day hike, make sure to head out in the early morning. Don’t forget the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Embark on your journey along the Garnet Canyon to Lower Saddle Hike from the Lupine Meadows Trailhead. Setting out from here, hikers will follow the Valley Trail before diverting right onto the Garnet Canyon at the first intersection. Now climbing through the craggy corridor, you will meander through swathes of wildflower meadows, and tree stands bisected by Granite Canyon Creek. Admire the beauty of the alpine terrain and the charming cascades that adorn the snowmelt stream. At the appropriate junction, turn right onto the Lower Saddle Trail.

Navigating the vertiginous terrain via switchbacks, you will pass the Petzoldt’s Caves. Using the ropes as available, you will cross the Middle Teton Glacier before culminating at the Lower Saddle. Marvel at the grandeur of the surrounding Teton Mountains and the incredible views of the Jackson Hole. The views of Grand Teton looming above you will render you speechless. Admire the unrivaled scenery, then head back down the way you came to the trailhead.