Cascade Canyon

Cascade Canyon is arguably the most popular and well-traveled canyon in the Park, in part due to the close proximity and relatively easy access afforded those who take the boat shuttle to the west shore of Jenny Lake.  The mouth of the canyon lies about a mile above the west shore boat dock, saving approximately two miles of hiking that are required if starting from the Jenny Lake or String Lake parking lots. The main trail starts just west of Inspiration Point, which can be reached via Hidden Falls to the south or the horse trail bypass to the north, climbing approximately 500 feet in elevation in the process. It is 3.6 miles from this junction to the Forks of Cascade Canyon.

The trail beyond Inspiration Point climbs very gradually to the Forks and offers some incredible views of Teewinot, Mt. Owen, and the Grand Teton which tower above to the south.  At the Forks the trail splits with spurs leading into the North and South Forks.

The North Fork trail climbs steeply out of spruce-fir forests and into the subapline world of meadows and talus fields for 2.7 miles to Lake Solitude at an elevation of just over 9,000 feet.  From here the trail continues up another 1,700 feet, climbing out of the North Fork of Cascade Canyon and reaching Paintbrush Divide. 

NOTE: A descent into Paintbrush Canyon prior to late July requires the use of an ice axe and/or crampons to safely traverse. 

The South Fork trail also climbs steeply from the Forks as it makes its way towards the Avalanche Divide trail junction 3.8 miles away.  A right turn at this junction leads up to Hurricane Pass in 1.3 miles, which is the boundary between Grand Teton National Park and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest.  

NOTE: Hurricane Pass typically remains snow covered on the Park (east) side until mid to late July and an ice axe is highly recommended to traverse the pass when these conditions exist.   

A left turn leads to Avalanche Divide in 1.6 miles and the end of maintained trail.  The descent into Avalanche Canyon is a cross-country non-trailed arduous undertaking.  Expert travel and navigation skills are required for safe travel beyond this point.