Teton Village Wildflower Trail

Route Description for Teton Village Wildflower Trail

Get your heart rate up and indulge yourself in the beauty of the Teton Mountains along the Teton Village Wildflower Trail. A bustling ski hill-turned hiker’s oasis in the summer months, this route offers incredible scenery and the opportunity to cool off with a cold beverage at the route’s culmination. Much of the route is exposed, so wear SPF and sun protection! Additionally, though you may not think you need a lot of water, you do—the constant climb demands exertion. Though unlikely, a bear encounter is possible; make sure at least one person in your party has bear spray. Note the Grand Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for more information.

The Teton Village Wildflower Trail treats its hikers to a unique experience. Explore the lush hillside of Rendezvous Mountain adorned with a variety of flora and fauna and marvel at the views of the Teton Mountains, Jackson Valley, and the Gros Ventre Mountains. Those who make it to the summit can have lunch and a drink overlooking the breathtaking landscape at the Piste before heading back down the path or taking the free gondola back to the trailhead. While a myriad of trails occupies the area, this route is one of the few footpaths that permit dogs. Note your four-legged friend must remain on a leash, and they, unfortunately, cannot ride down on the gondola—so come prepared for an out and back adventure!

Embark on your journey along the Teton Village Wildflower Trail from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Setting out from here, hikers will wander briefly beneath the Ariel Tram before diverging onto a resort road. Traveling westbound, you will soon reach the Wildflower Trailhead. The Wildflower Trail will begin to climb up the hillside. Traveling via switchbacks through exposed meadows and tree stands, you will be granted views of Rendezvous Mountain towering above. Don’t forget to take a photo on the swing overlooking the Jackson Hole!

Taking breaks as needed, the route will pass beneath the Bridger Gondola and the Casper Bowl High-Speed Quad. Zig zagging up the mountainside, the track will eventually reach the Casper Restaurant. If you are exhausted, this is a great turnaround point as the views are incredible. If you still have some gas left in the tank, continue along the Wildflower Trail. This section of the hike is more sparsely shaded and likely winder—so adjust your layers accordingly. After navigating one final collection of switchbacks, you will reach the summit of the Bridger Gondola.

Revel in the panoramic views from here. If the restaurant is open and you are seeking refreshment or a bite, try and snag a seat on The Deck overlooking the remarkable scenery. Notice the Teton Mountains running on either side; the Jackson Hole adorned with glacial lakes and buttes, and the Gros Ventre Mountains that bound the valley on the east. When you are through admiring the scenery, you can either take the gondola down the hillside or retrace your steps along the path back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Rendezvous Mountain

Rendezvous Mountain is a massif located partially in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the Grand Teton National Park. Sitting at an elevation of 10,455ft above Teton Village, the mountain massif extends over 5mi, with the highest point being Rendezvous Peak at 3,331 m. A popular hiking destination in the summer months and a bustling ski hill in the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the snowy season, this area is well-revered for its beauty and diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Teton Village Wildflower Trail?

The Teton Village Wildflower Trail is an 12.9 km out-and-back hike.

Can you take the gondola down from the Teton Village Wildflower Trail?

Yes, assuming the gondola is open, Teton Village Wildflower hikers can catch a free gondola back down the trail.

Insider Hints for Teton Village Wildflower Trail

• Though unlikely, bear encounters are possible, so make sure at least one person in your party has bear spray and knows how to use it
• While not technical the climb is steep and mostly exposed, so bring plenty of water
• Take a picture on the swing overlooking the Jackson Hole and Gros Ventre Mountains
• Explore in the spring and early summer when the wildflowers have blossomed
• Bring your camera, the scenery is quite photogenic
• Grab a drink at The Deck @ Piste before heading back down the mountain