Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake offers stunning Teton views and a thrilling cliff jump, set within the majestic Grand Teton National Park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for hiking & lake activities
Phelps Lake
Best Time
Ideal for hiking & lake activities

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Phelps Lake offers stunning Teton views and a thrilling cliff jump, set within the majestic Grand Teton National Park.
"The 7-mile loop around Phelps Lake is a popular hike with a famous cliff jump into clear, chilly water."
🚗 Access the Trailhead
Drive down a mile-long dirt road to Death Canyon parking for Phelps Lake. Most cars can handle it. :car:
🪨 Dare the Jumping Rock
Take the plunge from the 25+ foot boulder into Phelps Lake for an unforgettable thrill! :wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jumping Rock
Phelps Lake
Daredevils can leap from a massive boulder into the chilly, clear waters of Phelps Lake. A thrilling experience!

Phelps Lake Loop Trail
Phelps Lake
A scenic 7-mile hike encircling the lake, offering diverse views and access to the famous Jumping Rock.

Snorkeling in Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake
Enjoy the clear, refreshing waters of Phelps Lake with a dip or snorkel. Wetsuit not required, but be ready for the cold!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Phelps Lake Trailhead Access
Best Time for Phelps Lake
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Access the Trailhead
Drive down a mile-long dirt road to Death Canyon parking for Phelps Lake. Most cars can handle it.
:car:🪨 Dare the Jumping Rock
Take the plunge from the 25+ foot boulder into Phelps Lake for an unforgettable thrill!
:wave:🥽 Snorkel or Swim
The clear waters of Phelps Lake are perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkel.
:ocean:🚶♀️ Hike the Loop
The 7-mile Phelps Lake loop offers stunning views and is a popular choice.
:hiking_boot:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Access the Trailhead
Drive down a mile-long dirt road to Death Canyon parking for Phelps Lake. Most cars can handle it.
:car:🪨 Dare the Jumping Rock
Take the plunge from the 25+ foot boulder into Phelps Lake for an unforgettable thrill!
:wave:🥽 Snorkel or Swim
The clear waters of Phelps Lake are perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkel.
:ocean:🚶♀️ Hike the Loop
The 7-mile Phelps Lake loop offers stunning views and is a popular choice.
:hiking_boot:💰 Visit Affordably
Jackson Hole can be pricey, but plan ahead to find affordable accommodation options.
:moneywithwings:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Phelps Lake and the surrounding Jackson Hole area are lauded for their breathtaking natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. Visitors praise the stunning mountain scenery, clear lake waters, and the thrill of Jumping Rock. While the town of Jackson Hole can be touristy and expensive, its unique Western charm and diverse offerings make it a highly recommended destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
"A really cool place! The city is quite touristy, but it definitely has its own unique charm. There’s a small park around the area, souvenir shops, and cozy cafés. Make sure to take a walk and explore — you’ll definitely find something interesting for yourself."
Iryna Shchukina
"I love Jackson Hole. So much to do and see. The Teton National Park is absolutely Beautiful. Great food choices. Shops are great with many varieties of what you might be looking for. Photo Galleries and art Galleries. There is something there for everyone whatever your liking may be."
Brad Thompson
"For those who see it as somewhat of an upscale, western version of Gatlinburg, you aren't wrong but that doesn't quite tell the whole story..the scenery surrounding the town by far and away surpasses its eastern counterpart and there is more to do both in and around town..."
Justin Gregory
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point for Phelps Lake is via the Death Canyon Trailhead. This involves driving down a mile-long dirt road, which is generally manageable for most vehicles, including minivans.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Death Canyon trailhead, which serves as the starting point for the Phelps Lake hike. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
No, you cannot drive directly to Phelps Lake. Access is via hiking trails from designated trailheads like Death Canyon.
The closest airport to Grand Teton National Park is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). Many visitors also drive to the park, especially if they are on a road trip through Wyoming.
While not always guaranteed, shuttle services can sometimes be available within Grand Teton National Park. It's best to check the park's official website for current transportation options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Phelps Lake is located within Grand Teton National Park. You will need to pay the park entrance fee to access the area.
Entrance fees for Grand Teton National Park are typically per vehicle and valid for seven days. Check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date fee information.
For day hiking to Phelps Lake, no special permits are generally required beyond the park entrance fee. Backcountry camping would require a permit.
Grand Teton National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours, and road access can be affected by winter conditions.
While you pay the entrance fee upon arrival, it's always a good idea to check the park's website for any timed entry requirements or reservation systems that might be in place, especially during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Phelps Lake hike is typically a 7-mile loop trail that encircles the lake. It's considered moderately challenging and offers beautiful lake and mountain views.
Yes, Phelps Lake is known for its clear, refreshing water, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, especially during the summer months.
Jumping Rock is a large boulder on the Phelps Lake trail that many visitors use to jump off into the lake. It's a popular, albeit daring, activity.
Phelps Lake is a popular destination, so expect crowds, especially during summer weekends. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning can help avoid the busiest times.
Near Phelps Lake, you can explore other trails in Grand Teton National Park, enjoy scenic drives, visit Jackson Hole town, or engage in activities like rafting and wildlife viewing.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlook before descending to the lake offers stunning panoramic views. The shoreline provides beautiful reflections of the Teton Range. Don't miss capturing the action at Jumping Rock!
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination for landscape photography, with fewer crowds. Golden hour in the late afternoon also provides stunning light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone usage is restricted in Grand Teton National Park. Always check the latest park regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
Beyond Phelps Lake, iconic photo spots include the antler arches in Jackson town square, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, and scenic vistas within Grand Teton National Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In the broader Jackson Hole area, families can enjoy activities like the Cowboy Coaster and tubing at Snow King Mountain, or exploring the town square with its unique shops. Many visitors find Jackson Hole to be a place with something for everyone, making it a great family vacation spot.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunches and snacks for hikes like the Phelps Lake trail can significantly cut down on food costs. Look for free events in Jackson town, such as the Saturday Farmers Market, and prioritize hiking and enjoying the natural scenery, which is the main draw and costs nothing beyond park entry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Phelps Lake Hike: A Traveler's Guide
One of the most talked-about features along the trail is Jumping Rock. This large boulder provides an exhilarating opportunity for visitors to leap into the cool, clear waters of Phelps Lake. While thrilling, it's important to assess conditions and your own comfort level before attempting. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the trail also leads to serene shorelines perfect for a picnic or simply soaking in the majestic scenery.
When planning your hike, consider the time of year. Summer offers the warmest weather for swimming and enjoying the lake, but can also bring more crowds. Early mornings or weekdays are often less congested. Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain.
Experiencing Jackson Hole: Beyond the Trails
For those seeking adventure, Jackson Hole offers a plethora of activities year-round. In the summer, options include rafting on the Snake River, paragliding, and riding the tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Winter transforms the area into a premier ski destination, with world-class resorts like Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King. The town also hosts events like rodeos and farmers' markets, adding to its lively atmosphere.
While Jackson Hole is often described as a bit touristy, many find its charm and the surrounding natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination. It's a place where you can experience both rugged outdoor adventure and a sophisticated Western town experience.
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