String Lake
A breathtaking glacial lake in Grand Teton National Park, famed for its crystal-clear, shallow waters and stunning Teton mountain vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure a good spot
String Lake
Best Time
Secure a good spot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial lake in Grand Teton National Park, famed for its crystal-clear, shallow waters and stunning Teton mountain vistas.
"This was my favorite lake of them all."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
String Lake parking lots fill up quickly! Aim to arrive by 8:30-9 AM for the best chance at a spot. :car:
🛶 Bring Your Paddleboard!
The calm, clear, shallow waters are perfect for paddleboarding. Rentals might be available nearby. :womanpaddlingboat:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
String Lake
Experience unbelievably clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. See fish swim by!
Stunning Teton Views
String Lake shoreline
Marvel at breathtaking, unfiltered views of the majestic Teton Range reflected in the serene lake.
Bridge View Scenic Spot
South String Lake
A must-see viewpoint offering iconic vistas, though parking can be challenging.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to String Lake
Embrace the Cold Water Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
String Lake parking lots fill up quickly! Aim to arrive by 8:30-9 AM for the best chance at a spot. :car:
🛶 Bring Your Paddleboard!
The calm, clear, shallow waters are perfect for paddleboarding. Rentals might be available nearby. +2 :womanpaddlingboat:
🐻 Be Bear Aware
Moose and bears are common. Carry bear spray and know safety protocols. +1 :bear:
🥾 Hike the Loop Trail
Enjoy a scenic 3-mile loop around the lake with beautiful views. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
String Lake parking lots fill up quickly! Aim to arrive by 8:30-9 AM for the best chance at a spot. :car:
🛶 Bring Your Paddleboard!
The calm, clear, shallow waters are perfect for paddleboarding. Rentals might be available nearby. +2 :womanpaddlingboat:
🐻 Be Bear Aware
Moose and bears are common. Carry bear spray and know safety protocols. +1 :bear:
🥾 Hike the Loop Trail
Enjoy a scenic 3-mile loop around the lake with beautiful views. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are nice picnic areas, perfect for enjoying the scenery. Pet-friendly options available. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
String Lake is a highly recommended gem in Grand Teton National Park, praised for its stunning Teton views, crystal-clear shallow waters perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Jenny Lake. Visitors appreciate the scenic loop trail and the chance to see wildlife. However, parking is a significant challenge, often requiring very early arrival.
"Another nice lake in Grand Teton, but not as crowded. There's areas throughout the lake that can be reserved. Even if you don't reserve an area, there's a nice trail around the lake with multiple trails that divert from the main one. The lower trail is around the lake, but as you make your way around the lake, it does climb to a higher altitude that loses sight of the lake. It's still nice, but you only see grasslands in those areas."
LeWayne Ballard
"We did not spend too much time here, but the view is wonderful. We saw people swimming in the lake and a few paddle boarders. I had to see how cold it was, so I walked in a few feet. It felt refreshing! There were clean bathrooms at the parking lot and a few picnic tables. One of the volunteers came over to tell us about bear safety."
Alice Weaver
"Great family picnicking and paddleboarding lake. Unreal views and crystal clear water. Be very bear-aware, lots of them in the area."
Adam C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
String Lake is located off Teton Park Road, a few miles north of Jenny Lake. Follow signs for String Lake. Parking lots can fill up, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, there are multiple parking lots for String Lake. However, they are very popular and fill up quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. +1
Yes, String Lake is easily accessible by car via Teton Park Road. The drive itself offers stunning views of the park.
The String Lake Trailhead and Leigh Lake Trailhead are very close to each other, within a quarter mile. For most visitors, it doesn't significantly matter which one you aim for, as parking availability is the main factor.
From Jackson, drive north on US-89/US-191/US-26. Turn onto Teton Park Road and follow signs for String Lake. The drive is scenic and takes about 45-60 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, String Lake is located within Grand Teton National Park, so a valid Grand Teton National Park entrance pass is required for all visitors.
Beyond the park entrance fee, there are no additional fees specifically for accessing String Lake itself. Parking is also free, but spots are limited.
String Lake is accessible year-round during park operating hours. However, facilities like restrooms may have seasonal closures.
While there are areas that can be reserved for groups, general access to the lake and its beaches is first-come, first-served. Arriving early is key.
Absolutely! String Lake is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering swimming, picnicking, and short hikes with incredible scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
String Lake is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, picnicking, and hiking. The water is shallow and generally warmer than other lakes in the park. +3
Yes, String Lake is known for its shallow, clear, and relatively warmer waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and cooling off. +1
The water temperature at String Lake is often described as refreshing and warmer than other glacial lakes in the park, though still quite cool.
Yes, there's a scenic 3-mile loop trail around String Lake, with options to connect to other trails like the one to Leigh Lake.
Yes, String Lake is a pet-friendly area, with designated picnic spots where you can bring your furry friends. Remember to keep them leashed.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire shoreline offers stunning Teton views. The Bridge View at South String Lake is particularly iconic. Look for reflections in the calm water.
Early morning and late afternoon/early evening offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone usage is restricted in Grand Teton National Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check current NPS regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The Bridge View at South String Lake is a highlight. Also, simply walking along the shore provides numerous opportunities for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-Tip: Arrive early to secure parking and a good spot by the water, which will make managing little ones much easier. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, and always supervise children closely near the water. Remember to be bear-aware, as wildlife sightings are common.
🛶 Adventure Seekers & Water Sports Enthusiasts
+2 Many describe it as feeling like you're 'floating through glass.' It's an excellent spot for a peaceful morning paddle or an invigorating afternoon swim. Beyond water activities, the surrounding trails offer opportunities for hiking. Consider the loop around String Lake or venturing further to Leigh Lake for a more extended adventure. The combination of serene water activities and accessible hiking trails makes String Lake a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the landscape. A polarizing filter can help enhance the vibrant blues of the water and sky. Golden hour light in the early morning or late afternoon casts a magical glow over the scene, making it ideal for capturing stunning shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Paddleboarding and Kayaking Paradise
+3 It's often described as feeling like you're 'floating through glass.' While rentals might be available in nearby towns like Jackson or at Jenny Lake, bringing your own inflatable paddleboard or kayak is a popular option for those with the means. The lake's shallow nature means you can often wade out quite a distance, making it easy to launch and land your craft. Remember to be mindful of other users and enjoy the peaceful, boat-free environment that enhances the serene experience.
+1Pro Tip: Even if you don't have your own equipment, the sheer beauty of String Lake makes it a fantastic spot to simply relax by the water, perhaps with a picnic, and watch others enjoy the lake. The views alone are worth the visit.
Navigating Crowds and Parking
To maximize your chances of getting a good spot, aim to arrive as close to sunrise as possible, or consider visiting on a weekday. If you do arrive and the main lots are full, don't despair. Sometimes, parking further down the road and walking is an option, or you might find a spot at a nearby trailhead like Leigh Lake, which is just a short walk away.
Community Advice: Redditors suggest that the String Lake Trailhead and Leigh Lake Trailhead are so close that it often doesn't matter which you aim for; the key is finding any available parking.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is highly recommended for anyone hiking or spending time in the backcountry areas around String Lake. Park rangers and volunteers are often present to share important bear safety information with visitors.
Key Takeaway: Enjoy the possibility of seeing wildlife, but prioritize safety by being prepared and informed. This ensures a positive and secure experience for both you and the animals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit