Jenny Lake Trail: Grand Teton National Park

View From Inspiration Point

 

Up Close Look At The Grand Teton

 

Sweet Stream Crossing On The Jenny Lake Trail

 

We took a break from Yellowstone and ventured down to Grand Teton National Park on day #3. It took about 2.25 hours from Madison Campground. There is a 7.5 mile road connecting the parks so you don't have to pay another entrance fee to get in. This was by far my favorite part of the trip. The Grand Tetons are indeed all they are made out to be. The sudden rise of this mountain range out of the valley is breathtaking. A forest fire obstructed our views for most of the morning but once the wind shifted we got some pretty good pictures. We hiked an 8 mile loop around Jenny Lake. We stopped at the Inspiration Point look out which is about 3 miles in on the Jenny Lake Trail. The views of the Grand Teton and the lake were spectacular. This trail was more rugged then anything we have done on the trip, rocky single-track the entire length. The only elevation change was the climb up to the viewpoint which was only a couple hundred feet. With the rocky mountains in the background and the blue waters of Jenny Lake visible for the majority of the hike, this trail will go down as one of my all time favorites. You have opportunity to see moose at any point as well as Grizzly Bears so make sure you come prepared.

After our hike we drove around to try and locate a Moose unsuccessfully. We drove up to Signal Mountain and got to see the vast landscape of the Snake River Valley. This side trip is a must do if you go to Yellowstone, it's not far and the Mountain Range is as good as it gets. There are many opportunities to hike and participate in a multitude of water sports if you desire.

Jenny Lake

 

The Tetons

 

Snake River Valley With Forest Fire In Background

 

View At Sunset