FAVORITE HIKES – GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
Paintbrush Canyon to Cascade Canyon overnight loop
By Tim Young, Associate Regional Director, Grand Teton Field Office
| Length: |
About 20 miles |
| Time: |
Two days recommended |
| Difficulty: |
A strenuous but beautiful hike, with about 4,000’ elevation gain |
| Maps: |
Mount Moran and Jenny Lake quads |
| Starting: |
String Lake Trailhead |
Both Paintbrush Canyon and Cascade Canyon offer excellent day hikes, but for a truly memorable hike that really showcases the Teton Range, consider combining the two into an overnight loop. I would recommend starting up Paintbrush Canyon, and hiking the loop counter clockwise, but either way is enjoyable. The highpoint is going over Paintbrush Divide, which at 10,500’ can be covered in snow much of the early summer season. The divide overlooks Leigh Canyon to the north and connects to the north fork of Cascade Canyon. Along the way are incredible views of the main Teton peaks, high alpine lakes, Jackson Hole, and magnificent backcountry of the Teton Crest area.
The climb up may be a challenge, but you’re guaranteed to find fields of wildflowers along with beautiful views of Holly Lake and Lake Solitude. Be alert for bears and other wildlife. An overnight backcountry camping permit is required. Hikers have the following overnight camping options: Holly Lake sites, Upper Paintbrush Canyon zone, or the North Fork Cascade Zone.
Inquire with Grand Teton rangers for specifi cs on camping and trail snow conditions at the Moose visitor center, or visit www.nps.gov/grte.
