- Destinations
6 Best Places for Swimming in Grand Tetons
Grand Teton National Park is not just a place of jagged mountain peaks; it’s also a place of serene alpine lakes worthy of a dip. Part of any epic Grand Teton adventure should absolutely include a post-hike swim or evening paddleboard. Within this pristine wilderness, here are the five best places for swimming in Grand Tetons.
After my last week in Grand Tetons, I made it a goal to jump in every lake we hiked to! It was such a refreshing experience on the hot summer days. Whether you’re planning an entire day in the Tetons built around picnicking around one of the many lakes or doing a hike for a quick swim, this guide will give you some of the best destinations to do so.
Follow along as I unveil the hidden gems and iconic swimming holes that make swimming in Grand Tetons an unmatched experience. From tranquil, tucked-away lakes to thrilling likes leading to lesser-known spots, this comprehensive guide includes some of the most stunning lakes for swimming in the region.
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Swimming in the Grand Tetons is going to quickly become a core memory for you when you think back on the brilliant blue lakes and refreshing feeling of a cool dip after a day hiking.
Quick Guide to Visiting Grand Tetons
Planning a trip to Grand Teton National Park? Excellent!
The Grand Teton’s are known for impressive mountain peaks, wildlife viewing, crystal clear water, and gorgeous hikes. If you’ve got a sense of adventure, I cannot recommend this area enough.
Here is a short guide to help you plan your epic trip to the mountains.
- Getting There: The best place to fly into is Jackson, WY airport. Find affordable flights here.
- Getting Around: You will need a person vehicle to get around the park. Many car rentals also offer bear spray rentals! (Since you cannot fly with bear spray).
- How Long to Visit: To truly see the best sites in Grand Tetons, three days would be enough time.
- Best Time to Visit: July and August are considered peak season. However, for small crowds, you can visit for shoulder season in May – June and September – October. IMO July is the best month to visit.
- Where to Stay: There are four front country campgrounds: Jenny Lake Campground, Gros Ventre Campground, Headwaters Campground and Colter Bay Campground. Colter Bay has RV Sites. Find Sites Here. You can also stay in the town of Jackson. Find hotels here!
- Getting into the Park: You will need an America the Beautiful Pass to enter Grand Tetons. You can purchase one here.
- What to do at Grand Tetons: Visit historic landmarks, go hiking or horseback riding, rent a motor boat, or go white water rafting!
- Wildlife: Grand Tetons is known for their large animals like moose, grizzly and black bears, and Roosevelt Elk. Book a wildlife viewing tour here!
Where are the Best Swimming Lakes in Grand Tetons?
If you’re looking for a longer adventure, there are some great options in my 24 Hours in Grand Teton blog post!
Know Before You Go
Before you embark on your adventure to swim in the picturesque lakes of the Grand Tetons, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed. While these alpine lakes promise an unforgettable experience, they also require respect for nature and safety awareness. Here are some essential tips to remember before you go:
Check Park Regulations and Closures
Familiarize yourself with the Grand Tetons National Park regulations and any specific rules pertaining to swimming in the lakes. Below this section, I’ve included the park information page for each of the lakes for easy access to any closures or restrictions that may be in effect during your visit.
Permits
To enter the park, you’ll need to either pay a daily entrance fee at the park gate or use an America the Beautiful Pass. An America the Beautiful pass grants you unlimited access to National Parks and Forests for an entire year. I highly recommend purchasing one if you plan on being in a national park for more than three days a year.You can purchase one here.
Hike Responsibly
Some of the lakes in the Grand Tetons require hiking to access them before setting out; choose trails that match your fitness level and abilities. Carry sufficient water & snacks, and wear appropriate gear. Let someone know your planned route and estimated return time. Never stray from the trail.
Be Bear Aware
The Grand Tetons are home to diverse wildlife, including bears. Educate yourself on bear safety guidelines, carry bear spray, and know how to use it. Make noise when hiking to let bears know you’re in the area. If you’re bringing food with you, make sure it is secured and never left out unsupervised. Lakes like String Lake even have Bear Lockers for food.
Respect Wildlife and Nature
Admire the wildlife from a safe distance and avoid approaching and feeding any animals. Lakes are a popular destination for animals too and almost every moose we saw on our latest Teton trip was near a water source.
Lake Safety
While swimming in the Grand Tetons, you are responsible for your safety. Be aware of water temperatures, as some may be quite cold even in the summer. Swim with caution and avoid jumping or diving into unknown waters, as submerged rocks may not be visible.
Pack Essentials
Apart from swimwear and hiking gear, carry essentials like sunscreen, a first aid kit, insect repellent, and a map or GPS device to aid navigation.
Leave No Trace
The Grand Teton’s natural beauty is best preserved when visitors practice the Leave No Trace principles. Minimize your environmental impact by picking up after yourself and respecting wildlife habitats.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of swimming in Grand Tetons. Embrace the wonders of the water responsibly and leave with an unforgettable experience.
Taggart Lake
Taggart Lake is where serenity meets adventure. After a short hike, access trail details here, the serene lake opens up before you. This will be a memorable alpine lake swim to be sure.
The moderately easy, well-marked trail spans approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip, featuring photos of the Teton Range and a valley of wildflowers. Along the hike, we spotted a moose, but it was known that there were bears in the area. When we reached the lake, we saw a moose in the distance taking a dip in the lake as well as us!
The lake is ideal for photography because the water is extremely calm and clear. It perfectly reflects the majestic peaks in the background.
Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake is a hidden gem for swimmers because it is more secluded than most of the lakes in Grand Teton, and it is truly enchanting. With its pristine waters and captivating vistas, Phelps Lake offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.
Access to Phelps Lake can be done via the Death Canyon Trailhead which is a tougher hike in terms of elevation or through Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. I highly recommend accessing Phelps Lake through the Preserve because their nature center is so cool and adds to the experience. More information about the preserve here.
When hiking around the Phelps Lake loop trail, you will likely hear laughing and splashing as people jump off the 22-foot rock in the distance. Make your way there, muster up some courage, and take the jump! The lake is beautiful, but this experience will be one for the books.
Just picture how much fun you will have jumping into a beautiful lake with mountain views behind you. Definitely add this lake to your list.
Jenny Lake
As one of the most iconic destinations within the Grand Tetons National Park, swimming in Jenny Lake is an unparalleled experience. Whether you are taking the Jenny Lake Boat to Inspiration Point and then going for a dip or simply hanging out along Jenny Lake for the day, it is the perfect place to relax and take in the views.
The lakeshore for Jenny Lake is easily accessible from the paved pathway from the parking lot. There are a number of little lakeshores along Jenny Lake near the Jenny Lake Boat Launch. And if you ever get tired of swimming, you can do a side adventure along the Jenny Lake trail to take in the lush forest and maybe see an animal or two!
As one of the most iconic destinations within the Grand Tetons National Park, Jenny Lake stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and offers an unparalleled swimming experience amidst its breathtaking surroundings. Majestic mountain peaks, lush forests, and pristine waters combine to create a captivating setting that attracts visitors from around the world.
String Lake
String Lake is the place where you will find TONS of families posted up for the day with coolers, paddle boards, blankets, and inflatable tubes. It is the spot to be if you want to spend the entire day swimming in Grand Tetons. It has shallow shores and gentle waters with amazing views of the Tetons in the background. The sandy bottom of String Lake makes it comfortable to walk through the crystal-clear waters.
If you don’t have your own paddleboard or canoe there are places to rent within the park! I honestly wish I brought my paddleboard and just floated around the lake for the day.
Since many people who choose to swim at String Lake are there for large portions of the day, Grand Teton has designated food storage containers to mitigate any run-ins with bears. Please use this if you have food or smelly items with you!
One last word of advice is that the parking lot for the String Lake Trail fills up QUICKLY on beautiful, sunny days. Get there prior to 7 am if you want to secure a spot close to the lake.
Many people consider String Lake to be the best swimming hole in the Tetons.
Leigh Lake
Leigh Lake is a great place for anyone looking for a more secluded swim in Grand Tetons. It truly is a hidden gem just off the beaten path. Getting to Leigh Lake does take a little more effect than swimming at String Lake or Jenny Lake because it requires a short hike from either Jenny or String Lake.
However, the mirrored image of the Tetons reflected in the water is truly something to behold. And if you want a bird’ s-eye view of Leigh Lake, there is the full Leigh Lake trail, which offers spectacular views from the vista.
The Leigh Lake Trailhead is located near the Jenny Lake Visitor Center and Lodge. The area can get crowded as people hike the Hidden Falls Trail, take a boat ride across Jenny Lake, or grab lunch at the many picnic tables in the area.
Bonus: Delta Lake
For those wanting a little more adventure prior to their swim in Grand Teton, there are tons of hikes with beautiful lakes at the end of the trail. However, the most breathtaking lake has to be Delta Lake. If you’re up for a spectacular trek, this is the lake hike for you!
This stunning turquoise lake is surrounded by towering peaks of granite. The lake is fed by snowmelt so be prepared for a polar plunge into the beautiful water. Take some time to warm-up and dry off on the granite boulders before making your way back down.
Note: This is a very strenuous hike that requires some scrambling at high altitude. If you’re new to hiking or don’t feel comfortable with heights there are some other fabulous options for you!
Since this trail is more secluded from park staff, it is imperative that all waste and garbage is packed out. We want this area to remain pristine and beautiful for generations to come!
Mini-Guide to the Grand Tetons
There are so many great things to do in the Grand Tetons other than taking a dip in the cool water of the amazing lakes in the area. From visiting Mormon Row to spotting wildlife, there are plenty of options.
Here is a short guide on what there is to do, see, and eat in the area! For an in-depth guide on what to do with a day in Grand Tetons National Park, check out my 24 hours guide here.
Things to Do
Visiting National parks is just about hiking. There are various family-friendly options in the park, including:
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for moose, elk, bison, and even grizzly bears. The best spots include Antelope Flats and Oxbow Bend.
- Boating: Explore Jackson Lake or Jenny Lake by kayak, canoe, or motorboat. Boat rentals are available throughout the park.
- Scenic Drives: The 42-mile Scenic Loop Drive offers jaw-dropping views and access to many of the park’s highlights.
- Photography: Capture sunrise at Schwabacher Landing or sunset at Snake River Overlook for iconic views of the Tetons.
Hiking Trails
Some of the park’s favorite trails include:
- Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point (2.2 miles roundtrip): A must-do for visitors, this trail offers stunning views of Jenny Lake and a cascading waterfall.
- Cascade Canyon Trail (9.1 miles roundtrip): A moderate hike that takes you deep into the heart of the Tetons.
- Taggart Lake Trail (3.8 miles roundtrip): Perfect for beginners, this loop offers serene lake views and Teton reflections.
- Paintbrush Canyon to Holly Lake (12 miles roundtrip): A challenging trail with rewarding alpine scenery.
Lodging Options
Grand Tetons has some amazing places to stay! There are plenty of more options in nearby Jackson Hole. But nothing quite beats walking up in the park.
- Jackson Lake Lodge: A classic lodge with panoramic views of the Tetons and a range of dining options.
- Jenny Lake Lodge: A luxury option offering cozy cabins and fine dining.
- Signal Mountain Lodge: A mid-range choice with cabin accommodations near the lake.
- Camping: Consider campgrounds like Gros Ventre, Colter Bay, or Signal Mountain. Campgrounds book up quickly in the summer season!
Places to Eat
The best thing to do after a long day on the trail is to grab a bite to eat with a cold beer. Here are some of the dining options in the park.
- The Mural Room: Located in Jackson Lake Lodge, this restaurant features fine dining with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the Tetons.
- Jenny Lake Dining Room: Enjoy a farm-to-table menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- Dornan’s Chuckwagon: A casual spot in Moose offering hearty breakfasts and Western-inspired fare.
- Signal Mountain Lodge’s Trapper Grill: Famous for its delicious nachos and lakefront views.
For more restaurant options, click here!
Any questions trying to plan your perfect Grand Tetons Vacation? Drop them in the comments, and I will be happy to help!
Pack It Up
Grand Teton National Park is an exquisite place for alpine lakes, each offering unique and alluring experiences. From the tranquil oasis of Taggart Lake to the hidden gem of Phelps Lake, there is beauty to be seen around every corner.
Swimming at Grand Teton in these pristine waters is an experience you should not pass up on your next visit!
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, a family in search of a memorable outing, or a nature lover wanting to connect with nature, the lakes of the Grand Teton National Park welcome you. While this blog discusses 5 of the best places for swimming in Grand Teton, there are so many more lakes inviting you for a swim.
Let me know in the comments which lake you’ll be swimming in first when you reach Grand Tetons National Park!
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Meet the Author -
Sarah Borgen
I am an Educator and outdoor Enthusiast based out of Seattle and writer of Exploren Borgen! My adventures consist of weekends spent in the woods, on a hike, car camping, and taking a deep breath of fresh air. When not on an adventure, you can find me in a classroom teaching high school science! I love having a job that allows me to the opportunity to discuss things like conservation, sustainability, and accessibility.
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Meet the author
Sarah Borgen, AKA your outdoor bestie
I’m an outdoorsy educator and adventure advocate, which is why I’m passionate about creating resources – like blogs, guides, and interactive maps – to simplify your travels. I’m eager to share some of Washington’s greatest destinations and hidden gems with you.
