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Leigh, Bearpaw, and Trapper Lakes
Hiking Trail
Moderate
10.91 mi
395 ft
A long yet relaxing hike to three of the park's stunning glacial lakes, and a great option to enjoy the sunrise as it illuminates the mountainside.
Pack your gear the night before, and get an early start on this hike along the shores of Leigh Lake, a glacial lake resting along the eastern slopes of Mount Moran. Though longer in length, this hike is somewhat easy, with no significant elevation gain as you follow well-established paths along the lakes. Locals often suggest an early morning start to enjoy the sunrise as it illuminates the mountainside with a stunning array of colors. Many consider Leigh Lake an excellent alternative to the popular Jenny Lake, offering a similar experience but often without the crowds.
This hike originates at a trailhead for both String and Leigh Lakes, labeled on some maps as Paintbrush Canyon Trailhead. As mapped, the entire route is 11 miles long, though it is an out-and-back so you could turn around whenever you'd like. For those who venture to the end, two side trails venture to Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes, as well as a quiet cove along the shores of Lake Jackson.
Named after a 19th-century trapper, the 1,800-acre lake reaches an impressive depth of 250 feet, with a surface elevation near 6,900 feet above sea level. For perspective, across the lake from the trail, the 12,600-foot peak of Mount Moran stands a full mile above where you'll be running. It's also the 4th highest peak in the Tetons!
The best time of year to enjoy this hike is between May and October. A large paved parking lot at the trailhead is suitable for larger vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Seasonal restrooms are also available.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Pack your gear the night before, and get an early start on this hike along the shores of Leigh Lake, a glacial lake resting along the eastern slopes of Mount Moran. Though longer in length, this hike is somewhat easy, with no significant elevation gain as you follow well-established paths along the lakes. Locals often suggest an early morning start to enjoy the sunrise as it illuminates the mountainside with a stunning array of colors. Many consider Leigh Lake an excellent alternative to the popular Jenny Lake, offering a similar experience but often without the crowds.
This hike originates at a trailhead for both String and Leigh Lakes, labeled on some maps as Paintbrush Canyon Trailhead. As mapped, the entire route is 11 miles long, though it is an out-and-back so you could turn around whenever you'd like. For those who venture to the end, two side trails venture to Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes, as well as a quiet cove along the shores of Lake Jackson.
Named after a 19th-century trapper, the 1,800-acre lake reaches an impressive depth of 250 feet, with a surface elevation near 6,900 feet above sea level. For perspective, across the lake from the trail, the 12,600-foot peak of Mount Moran stands a full mile above where you'll be running. It's also the 4th highest peak in the Tetons!
The best time of year to enjoy this hike is between May and October. A large paved parking lot at the trailhead is suitable for larger vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Seasonal restrooms are also available.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
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