Last updated: August 2, 2023
Thing to Do
Open Canyon
Photo Courtesy of A. Lennon
Death Canyon Trailhead
Open Canyon is a very strenuous, out and back trail that winds through alpine forests along the shores of Phelps Lake before ascending into the canyon and transporting hikers to alpine terrain near Mount Hunt Divide. Take in the views at the divide before returning the same way. Before attempting this hike, stop by the Jenny Lake Ranger Station to speak with a ranger about conditions on Mount Hunt Divide, as the divide often holds snow until mid-July and can be dangerous if attempted without the proper snow equipment.
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Hike from the Teton Village base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails, or take the Aerial Tram (fees apply), to start this very strenuous point-to-point hike over Mount Hunt Divide and down Open Canyon. Take the Valley Trail and Jackson Hole Moutain Resort trails to return to the Teton Village base area. Before attempting this hike, stop by the Jenny Lake Ranger Station to speak with a ranger about conditions on Mount Hunt Divide, as the divide often holds snow until mid-July and can be dangerous if attempted without the proper snow equipment.
Details
Duration
7-14 Hours
Death Canyon Trailhead
Open Canyon is a very strenuous, 14.8 mi (23.8 km) RT hike with 3,820 ft (1,160 m) of elevation gain.
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Open Canyon is a very strenuous, 19.4 mi (31.2 km) one-way point-to-point hike with 3,440 ft (1,050 m) of elevation gain.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
A general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park. A fee is charged to ride the Aerial Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. (Discounted when purchased online in advance.)
Location
Death Canyon Trailhead or Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Death Canyon Trailhead
Park at the Death Canyon Trailhead for access to the Static Peak Divide Trail. The Death Canyon Trailhead is located one mile down a rutted, dirt road. The road is not recommended for vehicles with low clearance. Exercise caution when driving down the Death Canyon Road and pull fully off of the road if parking on the shoulder.
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Park in the Ranch Lot at Teton Village and hike from the base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails or take the Aerial Tram (fees apply).
Reservations
No
Permits are required for those planning to stay overnight in the backcountry. Visit the backcountry page to learn about obtaining a permit.
Season
Summer, Fall
Open Canyon is best accessed in summer after the snow melts and in fall before the first snow arrives. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt this hike unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Death Canyon Trailhead
Open Canyon is a very strenuous, 14.8 mi (23.8 km) RT hike with 3,820 ft (1,160 m) of elevation gain 13%.
Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead
Open Canyon is a very strenuous, 19.4 mi (31.2 km) one-way point-to-point hike with 3,440 ft (1,050 m) of elevation gain and an average slope of 10%.
The trail is often narrow, steep, and includes steps and switchbacks.