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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
360 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.6 km
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
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Phelps Lake

Views from the Phelps Lake Hike in Grand Tetons
Measurement:

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Table of contents

With little elevation gain, the hike around Phelps Lake in Grand Teton National Park is a great family-friendly walk, especially perfect for small children – plus there are fewer people here than Jenny Lake. The sandy beach at the far end is also ideal for a picnic and a swim.

Route Description for Phelps Lake

The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and the trails through it are brand new, so the facilities are pristine! The parking lot is very small and usually fills around 9 AM, so plan to arrive early. From the parking lot head towards the visitor center where the trail will begin. From the “Preserve Center” turn right at the first fork along Woodland Trail. This wide path winds through the forest and offers a nice secluded nature walk. If you desire even more seclusion, take your first right along the Woodland Trail to the Boulder Ridge Trail. This single-track gains some more elevation and gives a small view across the plains. Coming down from the Boulder Ridge Trail, you’ll find yourself seamlessly joining the Phelps Lake Trail. This route circumnavigates Phelps Lake, and is the path you will follow for most the hike. As you walk, look across the lake up to Prospectors Mountain on the right and Mount Hunt on the left. Around halfway up this side of the lake you will come across a massive boulder sticking into the water. This diving board is a perfect rock for cliff jumpers, so be prepared if you are interested. On the far side of the lake you will arrive at a stunning white sandy beach. This is where the benefit of Phelps Lake over Jenny Lake really shines, as there are so few people here! It’s absolutely a perfect lunch spot. We saw backpackers inflating their sleeping pads and going for a float in the mild-temperature water, and envied their relaxation. Continuing around the lake you will come to a junction. Walk up to the right a couple hundred meters to get a view into Death Canyon – it's worth the short diversion. Return and continue walking on the Phelps Lake Loop Trail. Along the west side of the lake there are numerous small rocky and sandy beaches to enjoy, though they are less gorgeous then the northern beach. Huckleberry Point has large boulders that are perfect for sun tanners and those just wanting to soak in the views. As you return, take the Lake Creek Trail to finish the hike.

Insider Hints for Phelps Lake

  • Bring a bathing suit, towel, picnic lunch and anything else you would need for a beach day. The secluded nature of Phelps Lake allows for a memorable swim and sun tan.
  • Pick up a map and talk to the helpful naturalist in the “Preserve Center” (visitor center)

Getting to the Phelps Lake Trailhead

From Colter Bay or Jenny Lake head south towards Moose. At Moose, turn right onto Moose Wilson Rd. in the direction towards Teton Village and the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. Follow this very narrow road until you see the sign for the Preserve, then turn left into the parking lot. You can also access this route coming from Moose and heading North.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    June through October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    Trailhead

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Phelps Lake Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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