String Lake Loop, Grand Teton NP

String Lake is a great place to spend time in Grand Teton National Park. There are many options for fun here including kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and picnicking. The warm, shallow waters make it a great lake for families, and there are many options for hiking here, from easy to difficult.

This trail-head is the starting point for the loop around the lake as well as the access point for the Leigh Lake and Paintbrush Canyon Trails, among others. If choosing to do the loop in the morning, start in a counter-clockwise direction for better views of the mountains. The hike around the lake provides beautiful views of the cathedral group (Teewinot, Grand Teton, and Mt. Owen) and later Mt. Moran. After about 1.4 miles, you will cross a bridge and head into the beautiful lodge-pole pine forest. Upon leaving the forest, you will be treated to beautiful views of the lake below. Wildflowers are abundant here in Summer.

This is a fun, easy hike for the whole family with options for longer, more strenuous hikes if desired. You may even see a few critters on the trail, including the yellow-bellied marmot, who seems to enjoy posing for pictures, but please keep a safe distance from all wildlife on this trail, and do not feed them. In addition, please pack out all food you bring into this area, as unattended food attracts black bears. Mosquitoes can also be an issue around the lake so bring the bug spray if hiking here in the Summer or Fall.