Phelps Lake Overlook Hike

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.
1-1.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.2 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.
126 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

A magnet for photographers and sightseers, the Phelps Lake Overlook Hike boasts beautiful views worthy of a postcard. This short but impressively scenic route draws a crowd, and rightfully so—come prepared to share the trail!

Guide-book quality info for over 8,000 trails

View Phelps Lake Overlook Hike on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Phelps Lake Overlook Hike

The Phelps Lake Overlook Hike is an amazing adventure in the Grand Teton National Park. This family-friendly trek travels through mixed woodlands of lodgepole pines and quaking aspens to the scenic lookout point. As with all hikes in the area, wildlife encounters are possible, so make sure you or someone in your party carries bear spray and knows how to use it! If you do spot any wildlife, make sure to admire them from a safe distance. Though accessible year-round, the access road is subject to seasonal closure, so those heading out in the winter will have a longer walk. Note the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Embark on your journey along the Phelps Lake Overlook from the Death Canyon Trailhead. Setting out from here, hikers will be led along the Death Canyon Trailhead Spur to an intersection. Here, veer left onto the Valley Trail heading west. This route will gradually climb through the mixed forestlands, adorned with impressive outcrops. Mind your footing on obstacles such as roots and rocks as you make your way to the overlook.

From the Phelps Lake Overlook Hike, you will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Phelps Lake, the Jackson Hole, and the framing Tetons. Snap a few photos of the beautiful scenery, then retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Phelps Lake Overlook Hike Trailhead

The Phelps Lake Overlook departs from 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

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Phelps Lake Overlook Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Phelps Lake Overlook Hike Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs