Bearpaw Lake

Bearpaw Lake is a small glacial lake in Grand Teton's backcountry, between Leigh Lake and Trapper Lake. It's one stop on a long walk from String Lake, not a drive-up view. If you're already hiking toward Trapper, pause here; if you're choosing one lake beyond Leigh, continue to Trapper for its open meadow and Mount Moran views. The full out-and-back to Trapper is 9.2 miles, with 460 feet of gain, and takes about four to six hours. Bearpaw is partway along that route.

Start at the String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead and follow the eastern shore of String Lake, through forested shoreline past Leigh Lake. The trail has little overall climbing, but it's long and has plenty of small ups and downs, roots, and rocks. Getting down to the water can be awkward in places, so don't count on an easy open shoreline. If you reach the flower-filled meadow beside the lake, it gives you a natural foreground with the evergreen tree line across the water.

Bearpaw sits near the eastern base of Mount Moran and is about a fifth of a mile long. Snow and meltwater from Skillet Glacier feed the lake. The hike is listed for spring through fall; check current trail conditions before committing, especially in shoulder season. Pets aren't allowed on the route, and overnight backcountry stays require a permit.