Inspiration Point

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
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.
1.5-2h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.8 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.
235 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.4
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Views from the Inspiration Point Hike in Grand Tetons

The hike to Inspiration Point and beyond into Cascade Canyon is one of the must-do intermediate level hikes in Grand Teton National Park. Expect great scenery, beautiful viewpoints, a quiet secluded trail and spectacular mountain peaks.

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Route Description for Inspiration Point

For this hike we advise skipping the mediocre 4.0 km hike around the lake and instead take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle. The cost for an adult is $15 round trip. From the ferry dock at the far end turn left and follow the signs towards Inspiration Point.

This short climb is not too steep, and gives you a nice view over Jenny Lake. Early in the morning (at the start of the hike) there is beautiful light over the lake. You will be able to see across the expansive valley to distant foothills in the National Forest. This surreal view is well worth the minimal effort of the short climb! Hidden Falls Trail was closed during our most recent trip, however the falls are stunning and worth the short diversion to see.

We advise continuing past Inspiration Point along the Cascade Canyon trail for at least a little while. This trail remains very level for its entirety as it meanders beside the slow-flowing Cascade Creek. Continue along this trail as long as you want, as the view remains mostly the same for most the first part of the Cascade Canyon Trail.

This part of the hike is shaded by trees, but still gives good views of the creek and the mountains. For marginally more effort you get beautiful views up the mountains surrounding Cascade Canyon, and the majestic Cascade Creek. Above you to the right you will be able to see “The Jaw” and Symmetry Spire.

Insider Hints for Inspiration Point

  • Great portrait shots are available as you hike along Cascade Creek. Drop down from the trail to take your next “profile picture”.
  • Depending on how long you go along the Cascade Canyon trail, this hike can increase in difficulty to a 3 out of 5. Gauge your energy level and turn around while you still have sufficient energy.

Getting to the Inspiration Point Trailhead

From Colter Bay, head south down the John D. Rockefeller Parkway. At the first intersection turn right down Teton Parkway towards Jenny Lake. After nearly 21.0 km turn right at the South Jenny Lake junction. Alternatively, from Moose drive north on the Teton Parkway and turn left at the South Jenny Lake junction. Park anywhere – this lot fills up quickly!

Route Information

  • When to do

    June through October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    Trailhead

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Inspiration Point Elevation Graph

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Inspiration Point Reviews

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