Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point

Jenny Lake Trailhead
4.7
11 Reviews
Hike to Jenny Lake's Inspiration Point
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Details

Distance
1.62 miles
Elevation Gain
456 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Groups
Lake
Forest
Easy Parking
Waterfall
Scenic
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About this place

Added by Gordon Li

Amazingly photogenic and scenic, this short stretch is a must when visiting the Grand Tetons.

A relatively easy hike. Getting to the trailhead requires a short boat ride across Jenny Lake from the south side. Alternatively, it is possible to walk around the lake as well.

Starting from the boat dock, the trail is only a ~0.8 mile climb to Inspiration Point (1.6 miles round trip). Shortly into the hike, you will pass a side trail leading to Hidden Falls. If you have time, it's worth checking out.

Wild marmots zips through the pristine conifer forest floor as you ascend. Wildlife is abundant in these parts. If you're lucky, you might even come across a moose. However, be wary of bears as they are known to frequent the area as well.

The forest opens up to a gorgeous backdrop of the "Cathedral Group." This is essentially the middle point of the hike. It is also a good time to refuel and take a moment and digest the Tetons in all its beauty.

The trail becomes a bit rocky, but is still manageable. Afterwards, you'll be greeted with a panoramic view of Jenny Lake.

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Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Hannah Ellis
9/28/2025
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Jake Sells
7/12/2017
alright views
If you cheat and take the boat shuttle, I'd recommend the views and mile spur to the overlook. If you hiked around the whole ...
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Michelle Olmstead
6/22/2017
Stunning Views, Crowds.
The Jenny Lake area is the most popular place in Grand Teton National Park. It's an absolute must see, but I recommend going ...
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Sam Darling
1/25/2017
Great addition to the full loop hike!
We did the full loop hike instead of taking the ferry and were so glad we made the extra trip up to Inspiration Point. ...
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C.C. Blackshear
10/4/2016
Great hike!
We took the boat from across Jenny Lake to the trailhead, which was nice. We went in July and part of the trail ...
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Jess Curren
8/29/2016
Hike there & take the ferry back!
We hiked this with my brother's family and combined we had 7 kids. They all did great - we hiked around the lake, up ...
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Haley Baker
8/22/2016
Quick and easy
A great view of the lake with so many opportunities to see wildlife - we saw two moose right on the shore when the ...
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Jared Blitz
7/6/2016
Inspiring
Perfect hike to inspire you to go farther into Cascade Canyon and a hike up to Lake Solitude. Go early to beat the ...
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Elyse Clark
6/24/2016
Arguably the most crowded hike in the Tetons. It is recommended to take the Jenny Lake shuttle at least one way ($9/person) to cut ...
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sUnday MeXiA
6/3/2016
Recommend
Once a year hike. Worth the Jenny Lake hike or the boat ride $. Wear boots. Hydrate plenty and watch your step on ...
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Edward Day
4/23/2016
Gorgeous View
Relatively easy hike. Can be pretty steep, but it's not that long so it is manageable. Plus the views are fantastic. Could get a ...
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