Jenny Lake Scenic Drive
A glacial lake nestled beneath the towering Teton Range, offering iconic overlooks, scenic drives, and access to popular hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Jenny Lake Scenic Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A glacial lake nestled beneath the towering Teton Range, offering iconic overlooks, scenic drives, and access to popular hiking trails.
"The views from this overlook are absolutely stunning - you really can't appreciate how magnificent they are until you see them with your own eyes."
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly. Be patient, circle back, or arrive very early.
💰 Cash for Boat Shuttle
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle is cheaper with cash. It starts running early!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jenny Lake Overlook
Jenny Lake Road
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramas of Jenny Lake and the majestic Teton Range. A must-see for any visitor.
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Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle
West Shore Boat Dock
A scenic and efficient way to access popular trailheads like Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls, saving you hiking time.
Inspiration Point & Hidden Falls
Cascade Canyon Trail
Popular hiking destinations accessible via the boat shuttle, offering stunning waterfall views and elevated lake vistas.
Jenny Lake Scenic Drive
Loop around Jenny Lake
A picturesque drive offering numerous pull-offs with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything at Jenny Lake
Navigating Jenny Lake's Popularity
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly. Be patient, circle back, or arrive very early.
💰 Cash for Boat Shuttle
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle is cheaper with cash. It starts running early!
🥾 Hike Beyond the Overlook
Don't just stop at the overlook; explore trails like Cascade Canyon for more adventure.
📸 Golden Hour Views
Sunrise and sunset offer stunning light for photography at Jenny Lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience is Key
Parking lots fill quickly. Be patient, circle back, or arrive very early.
💰 Cash for Boat Shuttle
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle is cheaper with cash. It starts running early!
🥾 Hike Beyond the Overlook
Don't just stop at the overlook; explore trails like Cascade Canyon for more adventure.
📸 Golden Hour Views
Sunrise and sunset offer stunning light for photography at Jenny Lake.
🐻 Wildlife Sightings
Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially during early morning or late evening.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jenny Lake for its breathtaking mountain vistas and the stunning beauty of the lake itself. The accessibility of viewpoints like the Overlook and the convenience of the boat shuttle are frequently highlighted as major positives. While crowds can be a concern, many find the experience well worth the wait, with some even encountering wildlife.
"What an absolutely incredible once in a lifetime experience! Jenny Lake Overlook was beyond amazing and I feel so lucky and privileged to have seen it in person.
The people there were so awesome - we had so many people cheering us on as we caught fish, which made the whole experience even more special. There's something magical about sharing those moments with fellow outdoor enthusiasts who genuinely celebrate your success.
But honestly, the mountains were just so breathtaking that they took my breath away. The views from this overlook are absolutely stunning - you really can't appreciate how magnificent they are until you see them with your own eyes. Photos don't even come close to capturing the scale and beauty of what you witness here.
The combination of great fishing, incredible people, and those jaw-dropping mountain views made this such a memorable day. Jenny Lake Overlook offers the perfect spot to take in the natural beauty while enjoying some fantastic fishing.
I can't recommend this place enough! Whether you're an angler or just someone who loves spectacular scenery, this overlook delivers an unforgettable experience. The friendly atmosphere and those unbeatable mountain views make it a must-visit destination.
Truly grateful for such an amazing day in this beautiful part of Wyoming!"
Summer Armstrong
"Great place for a quick stop to soak in the views of the Tetons or a pit stop from hiking. The trail is medium level difficult if you have younger kids. But it's a beautiful trail with gorgeous views. Can get overcrowded and finding a parking might be tough. But people who stop for a quick view leave and if you are patient, a spot will open up."
Ash Jafri
"We love alpine lakes and this one is massive! The colors of the water at the shore are beautiful, I only wish I had brought my paddle board for a morning paddle. There are little paths down to the shore (it is steep) but it
A so worth it!"
Kelly Zahniser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jenny Lake Scenic Drive is located within Grand Teton National Park. You can access it by driving north from Jackson, Wyoming, along the main park roads. It's a well-marked loop that circles the lake.
The Jenny Lake Scenic Drive is a loop, allowing you to drive around the lake. There are multiple pull-offs and viewpoints along the way.
Many visitors enjoy driving the scenic loop, taking the boat shuttle across the lake to hike to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls, or simply enjoying the views from the overlooks.
The Jenny Lake Scenic Drive is typically closed to vehicles in winter due to snow. Access may be limited to snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Check park conditions before visiting.
Jenny Lake is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from the town of Jackson, Wyoming, covering about 20 miles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Grand Teton National Park entrance pass is required to access Jenny Lake and its scenic drive. Passes can be purchased at park entrance stations or online.
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle has a fee. While prices can vary, it's often cheaper if you pay with cash. It's recommended to check the official park website for current pricing.
The Jenny Lake Overlook itself does not have a separate entrance fee beyond the general park entrance pass.
Boat shuttle tickets are typically purchased at the dock. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
The Jenny Lake boat shuttle usually starts running early in the morning, around 7 AM, and operates throughout the day. Hours can vary seasonally.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the trail to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls (accessible via boat shuttle), and the longer Cascade Canyon Trail for more adventurous hikers. +2
Yes, Jenny Lake Overlook is a very popular spot and can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early or visiting mid-week can help.
Yes, swimming and paddleboarding are popular activities at Jenny Lake. Some visitors recommend bringing your own paddleboard for a morning paddle.
The trail to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls is considered moderate. The Cascade Canyon Trail is more strenuous and longer.
Restroom facilities are available at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and other key areas around the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jenny Lake Overlook is a prime spot. Other great locations include various pull-offs along the scenic drive and the shores of the lake itself.
Sunrise offers beautiful soft light and fewer crowds, while sunset provides a warm glow. Mid-day can be harsh but still offers dramatic mountain views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
Drone usage is restricted in most national parks, including Grand Teton. Always check the latest NPS regulations before flying a drone.
The Jenny Lake Overlook provides direct, stunning views of the Teton Range reflecting in the lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trail to Inspiration Point can be a bit steep for very young children, the initial walk to Hidden Falls is manageable. Consider packing snacks and plenty of water. The scenic drive also offers numerous pull-offs for quick breaks and photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Many hikers opt to take the boat shuttle one way, hike further into Cascade Canyon, and then hike back around the lake or catch a later shuttle. This allows for a full day of exploration and immersion in the park's natural beauty. Remember to check trail conditions and be prepared for varying terrain and weather.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different viewpoints along the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive and the lake's shoreline. The changing light throughout the day offers unique photographic opportunities. Don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive
+1Key viewpoints along the drive include the Jenny Lake Overlook, which is arguably the most famous and offers a postcard-perfect panorama. Other notable spots provide different perspectives of the lake and mountains, making the entire loop a visual treat. Many visitors find this drive to be a highlight of their trip, offering accessible beauty without strenuous effort.
+1Pro Tip: Consider driving this loop in the early morning for the best light and fewer crowds, or in the late afternoon for a chance to see wildlife. The road is generally well-maintained, but always check park conditions for any closures or advisories.
The Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle Experience
Many visitors opt for a one-way shuttle ride to hike further into Cascade Canyon and then hike back around the lake or take a later shuttle. This approach allows for a more immersive experience of the park's backcountry. Remember that the shuttle has a fee, and some travelers suggest that paying with cash can be more economical.
Community Insight: Redditors often discuss the value of the boat shuttle, with many agreeing it's a worthwhile expense for accessing the trails more efficiently. It's a great option for those with limited time or who want to conserve energy for longer hikes.
Hiking to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls
These spots can get quite crowded, so starting your hike early in the morning or taking one of the first boat shuttles is highly recommended. The views from Inspiration Point are truly spectacular and make the moderate effort of the hike well worth it.
Traveler Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Bring water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions in the mountains.
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