Most hikes don’t start with a boat ride. But a hike in Cascade Canyon in Grand Teton National Park does. Or at least, can.
Jenny Lake
The hike begins at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and Trailhead. From here you can walk the 2 mile trail to the west side of Jenny Lake or board a shuttle boat for a 12 minute, energy preserving, and scenic mode of transportation.
Inspiration Point
At the West Shore Boat Dock take the Cascade Canyon Trail. The first mile of the hike is moderately strenuous with over 400 feet in elevation change. Keep climbing and be rewarded with stunning views of Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole from Inspiration Point.
Cascade Canyon
After a sufficient rest at Inspiration Point continue up Cascade Canyon.
Beauty will surround you on all sides. And the further you hike, the fewer people you will see. Even if Inspiration Point is crowded, push a couple miles deeper into the canyon and crowds are replaced with waterfalls.
And bears.
And marmots.
And stunning beauty.
We were afraid we wouldn’t make it all the way to Lake Solitude and back before the last shuttle boat of the day ran, so we turned back a few miles short. Even without reaching our intended goal, the hike was well worth it.
Video Recap of Cascade Canyon
Go
Round trip shuttle boat service is $15. Visit Jenny Lake Boating for more info. Check the posted time for the last boat of the day and be to the dock by this time or be prepared for the additional 2 mile walk back to your car.
Take lots of water, sunscreen, bear spray, and snacks or a lunch. Take a camera and if you are taking a DSLR, bring a telephoto lens. The bear we saw was on the other side of the canyon. A long lens made better photographs and was well worth the extra weight. Consider bringing a pair of binoculars as well.
Have you hiked in Cascade Canyon? Tell me about it in the comments below. What are your other favorite hikes in Grand Teton National Park?
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Read more about Grand Teton National Park:
Best Photo Spots in Grand Teton
