Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly day hike in Grand Teton National Park, Lakeshore Trail is a terrific choice. Shaped like a figure eight, the trail offers the choice of taking the short 1.1-mile first loop or adding the second loop to complete the 2-mile trail. Along the way, hikers will venture through beautiful changing scenery. At times the trail leads through lush, dense forest filled with pine trees and wildflowers. Then, along another section of the trail, hikers will see an awe-inspiring panorama of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range.

The trail is located near the Colter Bay Visitor Center, and access is easy. There are several short access paths from the parking lot near the amphitheater. The trail’s exact seasonal accessibility is dependent upon snowfall. Hikers may encounter patches of snow until mid-June. Waterproof shoes are recommended, especially for springtime hikes. The National Park Service recommends carrying bear spray and advises no solo hiking or trail running.

Area services, including food, lodging, showers and laundry open near the end of May and close in September. A nearby convenience store with gasoline and snacks is open from late April until mid-October.

Since hiking in high elevations may cause breathing problems for visitors unaccustomed to the area’s elevation, this mostly level trail is a great way to get acclimated to the region. Plus, it provides magnificent views of the iconic symbol of the park, the Teton Range. Hiking the Lakeshore Trail is a fabulous way to start your Grand Teton National Park adventure!