Forks of Cascade Canyon

Hikers are met with stunning views of the surrounding mountains while hiking through Cascade Canyon.

NPS Photo/A. Falgoust

Cascade Canyon, a glacially carved u-shaped canyon, passes between Teewinot and Mount St. John to provide easy access into the Teton backcountry. This out and back trail is a popular option with visitors who want to get into the mountains without gaining a significant amount of elevation. While following Cascade Creek, the trail provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including the Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and Teewinot. This trail also provides an opportunity to spot wildlife like moose and bears, as well as some of our alpine species like pika. While the trail continues several miles back into the canyon before splitting, you may stop and find a turning point at any time, making the trail as long or as short as you would like.

Details

Duration

5-9 Hours

Forks of Cascade Canyon Via Shuttle Boat 

Cascade Canyon is a moderately strenuous, 9.4 mi (15.1 km) RT out and back hike with 1,480 ft (450 m) of elevation gain.

If you are planning on using the shuttle boat, check their hours and prices. Tickets are purchased directly at the boat dock. 

Forks of Cascade Canyon Via South Jenny Lake Loop Trail

Cascade Canyon is a strenuous, 13.3 mi (21.4 km) RT out and back hike with 1,720 ft (520 m) of elevation gain.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

A general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park.

Location

Jenny Lake

To access trails, drive down the Teton Park Road and turn at South Jenny Lake. Jenny Lake is a popular area and parking fills in mid-summer. Arrive before 9am to guarantee a parking spot. Pull fully off the road if parking along the shoulder.

Reservations

No

Season

Summer, Fall

Cascade Canyon often holds snow until early-mid summer. Check conditions before attempting Cascade Canyon in the spring. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt Cascade Canyon unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

Forks of Cascade Canyon Via Shuttle Boat 

Cascade Canyon is a moderately strenuous, 9.4 mi (15.1 km) RT out and back hike with 1,480 ft (450 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 9%.

Forks of Cascade Canyon Via South Jenny Lake Loop Trail

Cascade Canyon is a strenuous, 13.3 mi (21.4 km) RT out and back hike with 1,720 ft (520 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 9%.
 

The hike to the first bridge with a view of Cascade Creek and its cascading waterfalls is fairly level with a set of stone steps gaining 65 ft over 0.2 mi (0.3 km). The trail to Inspiration Point features multiple sets of stone steps and a bridge crossing from the edge of Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point. No stair rail or handholds are available in the exposed last set of steps to Inspiration Point. Beyond Inspiration Point the trail gradually climbs over 500 ft crossing small streams and rock slides with numerous ups and downs. The trail surface is crushed rock and dirt.