Get outstanding views of the Cathedral Group of mountains as you hike to and around String Lake in the central part of Grand Teton National Park. The view is doubly impressive because the beautiful mountains reflect clearly when the waters of the lake are still.
String Lake is near one of the park’s main roads. After a short walk to the lake, head north to get almost immediate views of the Cathedral Group of mountains, most of which are more than 12,000 feet (3,700 meters) tall. Three notable peaks are Teewinot Mountain, Grand Teton and Mt. Owen.
For a more gradual elevation increase, head south on the 3.7-mile (6-kilometer) partially paved loop along the water’s edge.
Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours on the leisurely walk, smelling pine scents carried on the fresh mountain air, watching reflections in the lake and looking for wildlife. When the forest opens, gaze up at Mount St. John and Rockchuck Peak as well as other views of the Jackson Hole Valley.
Bring supplies for a picnic under shady trees. Swimming and kayaking are popular lake activities. Launch kayaks at the southern end of the lake and paddle northward to the narrows at the opposite end. Make a short portage to the larger Leigh Lake, which is accessible only by hiking or non-motorized boat.
Stop at one of the park’s visitor centers before doing the String Lake walk or other hikes in Grand Teton National Park. Learn about park safety concerns and purchase any water, snacks or bear spray you might need.
Access the String Lake Trail from the small parking area north of Jenny Lake when the park’s western road is open from May through October. If you snowshoe or cross-country ski to Jenny Lake in winter months, you can continue the short distance to String Lake. Take proper precautions for hypothermia, avalanches and other winter risks.
Pay the park’s weekly entrance fee or purchase an annual pass allowing admission to Grand Teton National Park and more than 2,000 other federal recreation sites across the U.S.
