The Beta
Jenny Lake is a 7.9 mile loop around a large lake located in Grand Teton National Park with about 650 total elevation gain. This hike features fantastic views of Jenny Lake as you circumnavigate the lake. It’s best used for hiking during warm months and snowshoeing during the winter. To hike without snow, optimal hiking occurs from June until October. Keep in mind that this trail starts at an elevation above 6,700 feet, and remains high throughout the trail.
Need to Know
This is a highly trafficked trail, and is one of the most popular trails in all of Grand Teton National Park. It will be crowded during midday, so plan accordingly. This trail can be buggy during summer months. There is not a terrible amount of sun exposure on this trail, but wearing long clothing and sunscreen is smart on hot summer days. There is a ferry that shuttles people from one side of the lake to the other. The two areas the ferry docks at can get quite congested with people arriving and departing, especially at Inspiration Point. Between these two docks, though, you should be able to find some solitude.
Justin’s Suggestion
Hike this trail as early as you can. The parking lot is large, and is often pretty full at 9am. If you’re looking to see minimal people during the trail, start as early as 6am. As far as ferry operations go, their operating hours are dependent on the season. From mid-May until June 6 and from September 7 to September 30, the ferry runs from 10am-4pm; from June 7 to September 6, hours are 7am-7pm. Plan your trip to avoid crowds at both ends, if you can! October may be a great time to visit the park, as autumn is in full swing, crowds are thinned out, and you’re greeted with cooler temperatures.
As always, drink plenty of water and other fluids. Bring snacks on this trail! You are at a sustained elevation of 6,783 for the majority of the hike!
Take A Hike!
Go have some fun on this hike! It’s a great one to do with the family and friends. Bring your camera so you can capture some fantastic shots during your hike!
If you need more in Grand Teton, check out my post on hiking Bradley and Taggart Lake. That’s a fun one with a great lunch spot and spectacular views along the way.
See you on the trail!
Parting shot:
Next blog: We’re staying in the Tetons with an updated version of a blog I’ve already written. Stay tuned for more beta, more photos, and a great time!
Justin Fague 
Grand Tetons is just fabulous! Amazing photos! Do you sell any prints?
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Isn’t it!? I love it up there. I’ve actually been developing a way to sell some of my best prints but I need a little more time to get it started. That’s something I’m looking forward to offering!
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We passed by Grand Teton several years ago, unfortunately we didn’t have time for any hiking, or anything else. But the majesty of these mountains remained fresh in my mind, thank you for bringing me back fond memories!
Christie
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Aww, that’s a major bummer!! The mountains truly are majestic, and I haven’t spent much time there. I want to get there this fall to see the colors change! I’m glad I was able to bring back some memories for you. It’s a beautiful place! 🙂
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I loved this hike! You’re totally correct – do this hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds! We came back later to kayak on the lake during the heat of the day. It was fantastic!
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Isn’t it a great one? It’s really pretty! Oooo, that sounds like a good idea! I only hike when I’m in National Parks and other Forest Service areas, but I definitely would love to kayak or paddle board on some of the lakes in Tetons, or the Snake River! That would be pretty epic!
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This looks like such a beautiful trail. It’s always a good call to arrive at any trailhead as early as you can to snag a parking spot and beat the crowds. We visited Yellowstone a few years ago and unfortunately didn’t have enough time to explore any of the trails in Grand Teton. I’d love to return someday.
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It is pretty beautiful!! For his trail especially, the earlier, the better. Even hit this trail early in the season, in mid-May or early June to avoid some of the crowds! When you go return, this one is pretty darn fun!
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This is definitely a must for anyone in Tetons!
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TRUUU!! It’s the easiest lake to see, hike, and boat on!
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