Moose Ponds

Moose frequent the aptly named Moose Ponds.

NPS Photo/J. Bonney

This easy 2 mile out and back trail or 3 mile lollipop loop follows the south shore of Jenny Lake. Take the trail just beyond the shuttle boat dock to get started. Named because of regular moose sightings in the area, the trail also offers spectacular views of Teewinot and Jenny Lake. In the spring and early summer wildflowers dot the sides of the trail, while the yellowing aspen add color in the fall. Hiking the 3 mile lollipop loop takes you out into Lupine Meadows, an open sagebrush area great for spotting pronghorn. Early morning is the best time to look for wildlife, as they are most active while it is still cool, but the trail is lovely at all times of day.

Details

Duration

1-3 Hours

Moose Ponds 

Moose Ponds is an easy, 2 mi (3.2 km) RT out and back hike with 180 ft (50 m) of elevation gain.

Moose Ponds Loop

Moose Ponds Loop is an easy, 3.4 mi (5.5 km) RT lollipop loop with 170 ft (50 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

Year Round

In winter, the trail is snow-covered and only accessible with snowshoes or cross-country skies.

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Wildlife are most active in the morning and evening when temperatures are coolest.

Accessibility Information

Moose Ponds 

Moose Ponds is an easy, 2 mi (3.2 km) RT out and back hike with 180 ft (50 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 8%.

Moose Ponds Loop

Moose Ponds Loop is an easy, 3.4 mi (5.5 km) RT lollipop loop with 170 ft (50 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 8%.

The dirt trail is relatively flat for the first quarter-mile but features obstacles, such as exposed roots and rock. A short but steep hill is required to view Moose Ponds.