The Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park for Families

Planning a trip to Grand Teton National Park with kids doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure. In fact, some of the most memorable moments come from hitting the trail together. With its jagged peaks, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife, the park offers a wide range of options that are perfect for all ages and skill levels. In this guide to the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park, you’ll find scenic, manageable trails that deliver big views without big effort, plus a few hidden gems that keep things fun and engaging for the whole family. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, these hikes make it easy to experience the beauty of the Tetons at a pace everyone can enjoy.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Grand Tetons

The best times of year to visit Grand Teton National Park for hiking are late June through September, when most trails are fully accessible and the weather is mild. Snow lingers at higher elevations well into early summer, so by July and August you’ll find clear paths, wildflowers in full bloom, and long daylight hours ideal for exploring. September is especially appealing, with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the added bonus of fall colors beginning to appear. Late spring and early fall can also be beautiful, but hikers should be prepared for unpredictable conditions, including lingering snow or early-season storms. Many of the roads and trails in Grand Tetons is closed in the winter due to snowfall. Overall, mid-summer to early fall offers the most reliable and rewarding hiking experience.

Arrive by Plane

If you are flying to the Grand Tetons, you will fly into Jackson Hole, Wyoming which is located next to the Teton Range. Your descent into the airport may behold the most beautiful views of any flight taken in the United States. Depending on the head winds, your plane may land from the north or the south, so I cannot give you advice on which side of the plane to sit on. If you luck out, you will have an up-close and personal view of the Teton mountains. But do not worry, if you sit on the “wrong” side of the plane, you will get views of Yellowstone National Park from above. There is really no wrong way to go.

Entrance Fees

You will need to purchase a park pass to enter Grand Teton National Park. The pass is $35 and is good for 7 consecutive days. Depending on how often you visit this park or all U.S. National Parks, you may want to consider purchasing an annual park pass or an America the Beautiful park pass, which will allow you into all national parks for a year. Also, if you have a 4th grader in your household, you can get a family pass to the national parks that is good for a year. Find out more about that benefit here.

What to Pack

Water!! Whether you use a hydration backpack or carry bottled water, make sure to pack plenty of water when outdoors!
Sunscreen – Protect your skin from the sun, and do not forget to reapply.
Hat – More sun protection to block the sun from your face
Hiking shoes/boots – Some of the hikes are on steep, slick rock, and people wearing regular tennis shoes struggled to keep their footing. Here are the men‘s version of the hiking shoes I love.
Hiking socks – The best way to prevent blisters is by keeping your feet dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best way to do that.
Backpack – A backpack is a necessity when hiking to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. that you may need on your longer hikes.
RTIC Soft-Sided Cooler – Keep your drinks and sandwich stuff cool in this cooler.
Jacket – Even in warmer months, the temps can be cool in the mornings and evening so pack a light men’s or women’s jacket.
Bug Spray – The mosquitoes are bad in Grand Tetons, and you will need bug spray to keep your sanity.
Bear Spray – Bears are rampant in Grand Tetons and can walk up on you at anytime. Arm yourself with bear spray. The stores in Grand Tetons sell bear spray if you do not bring your own.
Rain Gear – A rainstorm can come out of no where, so you will want to pack your rain gear in your car or backpack every time you go out.

Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

1. Taggart Lake Loop

Trail Length: 3.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 419 feet
Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
Route Type: Loop

The Taggart Lake Loop is one of the most popular family-friendly hikes in Grand Teton National Park, and for good reason. This relatively short loop offers a perfect mix of forest, open meadows, and a stunning alpine lake framed by the towering Teton Range. Kids will enjoy the variety of scenery, especially spotting wildflowers in summer and watching for wildlife like moose or marmots. The trail is well-maintained with gentle elevation gain, making it manageable for most families, while the reward at the lake, crystal-clear water and dramatic mountain views, makes it feel like a true adventure.

2. String Lake Trail

Trail Length: 3.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 259 feet
Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
Route Type: Loop

The String Lake Trail is one of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park and is ideal for families looking for an easy and scenic outing with plenty of opportunities to relax along the way. This mostly flat trail winds along the shoreline of String Lake, where calm, shallow water makes it perfect for wading or skipping rocks. The views of the Tetons reflecting in the lake are spectacular, and the shaded sections provide relief on warmer days. Families often combine hiking with a picnic or a quick swim, making this trail feel more like a full outdoor experience than just a hike.

3. Lakeshore Trail

Trail Length: 2.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 85 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Loop

The Lakeshore Trail along Jackson Lake provides a relaxing, low-effort hike with big scenic payoffs. This easy path hugs the shoreline, offering expansive views of the Tetons rising above the water. Families will appreciate the minimal elevation gain and wide-open spaces, which are great for kids who like to roam a bit. It’s also a fantastic spot for a sunset stroll, where the changing light over the mountains creates a memorable end to the day.

4. Woodland, Phelps Lake, and Lake Creek Loop

Trail Length: 3.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 269 feet
Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
Route Type: Loop

The Woodland–Phelps Lake and Lake Creek Loop is a slightly longer option for families ready for a bit more adventure. This loop takes you through shaded forests and along creeks before reaching Phelps Lake, where clear water and mountain views provide a perfect rest stop. The trail offers a nice balance of effort and reward, with enough variety to keep kids engaged without being overly strenuous. It is a great choice for families wanting to experience a quieter side of the park.

5. Schwabacher’s Landing Trail

Trail Length: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 6 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Out and back

Schwabacher Landing Trail is less about the hike and more about the incredible scenery you’ll encounter along the way. This short, flat trail leads to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park, where the Tetons reflect in the calm waters of the Snake River. It is an easy walk suitable for all ages, and the payoff comes almost immediately, making it perfect for families with little ones or limited time. Early morning visits often bring the best reflections and potential wildlife sightings.

6. Inspiration Point via Jenny Lake Boat

Trail Length: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 423 feet
Estimated Time: 1-1.5 hours
Route Type: Out and back

For families looking to experience a classic hike without the full effort, Inspiration Point via the Jenny Lake boat shuttle is a fantastic option. After a scenic boat ride across Jenny Lake, the trail climbs steadily to Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding peaks. While the climb can be a bit steep in sections, it is short enough to be achievable for many families, especially with breaks along the way. The combination of boat ride and hike makes this feel like a true adventure. Check out Best Way to Hike to Inspiration Point in Grand Teton National Park for more details.

7. Potholes Loop Walk

Trail Length: 0.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 0 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Loop

The Potholes Trail is a hidden gem that is perfect for families seeking something a little different. This short loop takes you to a series of unique water-filled potholes formed by glacial activity. The terrain is easy to navigate, and the unusual landscape adds an element of curiosity for kids. It is a quick hike that delivers something memorable without requiring a big time commitment.

8. Lunch Tree Hill Trail

Trail Length: 0.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 91 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Loop

Lunch Tree Hill Trail offers a short but slightly more challenging climb that rewards families with sweeping views of the surrounding valley and the Tetons beyond. Located near the park’s visitor center, this trail is convenient and great for a quick outing. The uphill section may get kids’ energy out, while the open summit provides a perfect spot to rest, snack, and take in the scenery.

9. Cunningham Cabin

Trail Length: 0.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 6 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Loop

The walk to Cunningham Cabin combines light hiking with a bit of history, making it especially engaging for families. This easy trail leads to a preserved homestead that offers a glimpse into early life in Jackson Hole. Kids can explore the historic structures while parents enjoy the scenic backdrop of the Tetons. It is a short, educational outing that adds variety to a hiking-focused itinerary.

10. Jackson Point Overlook

Trail Length: 0.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 6 feet
Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
Route Type: Loop

Perched high above the valley on Signal Mountain, Jackson Point Overlook offers one of the most rewarding panoramic views in Grand Teton National Park. This may be the shortest of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park. From this scenic vantage point, you can take in sweeping views of the Snake River winding through the valley floor, the distant town of Jackson, and the dramatic peaks of the Teton Range rising in the background. It’s an especially stunning spot at sunrise or sunset, when the changing light casts a golden glow across the landscape. Easily accessible by car via the Signal Mountain Summit Road, Jackson Point Overlook is a quick stop that delivers unforgettable views with minimal effort.