Phelps Lake

Phelps Lake is a hike-in lake in the southwestern part of Grand Teton, ringed by evergreen forest and steep, rocky slopes. This is a lakeshore outing, not a roadside stop. From Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, the Phelps Lake Trail reaches the south shore after about 1.3 miles. Turn back for a shorter visit or keep walking for a much longer loop. Phelps Lake Overlook is a separate destination if you only want the high view.

The south shore is rocky; the north shore has a small sandy beach. A large boulder above the water is often called Jumping Rock and rises roughly 30 feet over the lake. It is a landmark, but the nickname is informal, not a park recommendation to jump.

From the south shore, the view faces Death Canyon, Albright Peak and Prospectors Mountain. The steep, rocky slopes rise above the forest on the far side of the water. For a photo, include some of the rocky shoreline in the foreground with the canyon and peaks across the lake; a frame filled only with water loses the scale.

Glaciers carved the lake basin and much of the surrounding valley. The contrast is easy to see from shore: a broad, quiet stretch of water below steep, rugged slopes.

The trail passes through mixed evergreen forest and huckleberry patches. In summer, look for fireweed, western coneflower, yarrow, asters and Columbia monkshood along the route. Huckleberry areas are bear habitat, and visitors also report seeing mule deer and chipmunks. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

The preserve's parking lot is small and commonly fills during peak summer, so arriving early helps. Restrooms are available at the lot, visitor center and lakeshore; the lakeshore restroom has no potable water. There is no food service on the lake trail, and pets are not allowed on the hike. Overnight backcountry use requires a permit.