It is the perfect picnic spot in the park. Bring a large picnic to have at Lake Solitude.However each hike is so stunning that they warrant doing on separate days. Return the way you came, or for a longer hike you can go up Paintbrush Divide and return down Paintbrush Canyon. Above, you will be able to see Little Peak and a huge, perfectly horizontal rock ridge that forms a wall around the far end of the plateau. Some may swim in the lake, however most should choose to relax and spend as much time as possible soaking in the high alpine ridges that surround the deep blue lake. This lake is usually not very solitary, but still gorgeously beautiful! After gaining several ridges and passing through boulder fields you will crest a plateau and find Lake Solitude. If you started early in the morning, you will be graced by a cool climb, however those who started later will be dripping with sweat as they climb in direct sunlight. This valley is lined with rocky ridges and filled with wildflowers.
The views of these two mountains just get better as you hike, so save the photos for later! Look backwards and behind you to see the majestic Grand Teton and Mt. You will again start to climb and soon find yourself out of the trees. Turn right up the north fork towards Lake Solitude and Paintbrush Divide. This part of the hike is shaded by trees, but still gives good views of the creek and the mountains.Īfter some hiking, you will reach the Cascade Canyon fork. There are stunning views up Storm Point, the Rock of Ages to the right, and Teewinot Mountain to the left. This trail remains very level for its entirety as it meanders beside the slow-flowing Cascade Creek. These falls are stunning and worth the short detour, though in 2016 they are closed for construction.Ĭontinue along the Cascade Canyon trail, past Inspiration Point.
You soon pass a diversion for Hidden Falls. Early in the morning (at the start of the hike) there is beautiful light over the lake. This short climb is not too steep, and gives you a nice view over Jenny Lake. From the ferry dock at the far end turn left and follow the signs towards Inspiration Point. After passing along the base of Mount Owen, the loop exits the mouth of Cascade Canyon then follows the shores of Jenny Lake back to the trailhead.For this hike, we advise skipping the tedious 4.0 km hike around the lake and instead take the Jenny Lake boat shuttle.
Surrounded by steep canyon walls on three sides, the trail winds through the basin and awards endless mountain views as you descend.
#PAINTBRUSH DIVIDE TETONS FULL#
According to the article, "At 10,700 feet, Paintbrush Divide is one of the highest points you can reach on a maintained trail in Grand Teton National Park." The views from the high point are impeccable, the dramatic skyline full of jagged peaks contrasting the lush, swooping canyons below.įrom here, the remainder of the run is downhill, beginning with a visit to Lake Solitude. Though the "views of the divide from the shore area are outstanding," according to, "note that it can be fairly marshy around the tarn, so access may be limited depending on your timing." Whether you keep right to the lake or stay left (mapped) along the Paintbrush Canyon Trail, both merge back together and continue to Paintbrush Divide. Bear bells and bear spray also come highly recommended.Ībout 6 miles from the trailhead, the route reaches a junction with a spur that leads to Holly Lake. In addition to an abundance of wild berries, Paintbrush Canyon "is known for its outstanding wildflower displays, including blue columbine, Indian paintbrush, and mountain gentian." Bears are especially common throughout the canyons, and the Forest Service suggests groups of at least three people to help deter encounters. Plan accordingly, and don't hesitate to turn around if the weather turns sour. Afternoon thunderstorms also pose a danger at the higher elevations and can even prove fatal if ignored.
Snow and ice are still possible even through August, and it's suggested to contact a park ranger for the latest trail conditions before attempting the run. According to, "if you were to run into problems with weather or snow near Paintbrush Divide, this route would allow you to turn around and return to the trailhead faster." The counter-clockwise direction probably offers the best views as the lighting changes throughout the day. This loop shares a trailhead with Leigh Lake and String Lake.
0 kommentar(er)
