Pros & cons
PROS
- Quieter summit than its famous neighbors
- Big, dramatic views of the Grand and Middle
- One of the easier major Teton summits
CONS
- Long, strenuous day with big elevation gain
- Loose scree and boulder fields near the top
- Lupine Meadows parking fills early on busy days
Overview
South Teton is a 12,514-foot summit tucked above the South Fork of Garnet Canyon. It’s part of the historic Trois Tetons trio and, while overshadowed by the Grand and Middle, it often offers a quieter summit experience with equally jaw-dropping views. Many consider it one of the easier major summits in the range, but don’t underestimate it—this is real alpine terrain.
Route & Difficulty
Most parties approach from Lupine Meadows up Garnet Canyon to the South Fork. The regular line is the Northwest Couloir. Expect a big effort—roughly a 6,000-foot climb—on a route that shifts from trail to talus and scree with Class 2–3 scrambling. From the saddle between Middle and South Teton, a faint scree path weaves to the ridge; plan on under an hour to tag the summit and about 45 minutes back to the saddle if conditions are dry.
What You’ll See
From the top, the Grand and Middle Teton dominate the skyline, with Cloudveil Dome and the western Teton Basin sprawling beyond. It’s a panorama that feels close to the heart of the range without the usual crowd that flocks to the Grand.
Season & Conditions
Prime season runs June through September, but lingering snowfields can stick around well into summer. Start early to bank daylight and dodge typical afternoon thunderstorms. Weekdays tend to be quieter, and the Lupine Meadows trailhead is popular enough to fill early on weekends.
Logistics & Permits
No permit is required to climb South Teton as a day trip. If you plan to overnight in Garnet Canyon, you’ll need a backcountry camping permit. There are no amenities at or near the peak—no restrooms, water, or facilities—so carry everything you need and be prepared to treat or pack in water.
Wildlife
This is classic high-alpine country. Keep an eye out for small alpine mammals and soaring raptors, and use standard backcountry awareness on the approach through Garnet Canyon.
Best Time to Visit
- June–September for best access and longer days.
- Early starts for safer weather windows and easier parking.
- Midweek for more solitude and a calmer summit vibe.
Where it is
43.7185, -110.8185Tips for South Teton
- 01Start before dawn to beat afternoon storms and secure a parking spot.
- 02If you plan to camp, reserve a Garnet Canyon backcountry permit in advance.
- 03From the Middle–South saddle, expect 45–60 minutes on faint scree paths to the top.
- 04Bring solid navigation for the upper boulder fields where the route is indistinct.
- 05Go on a weekday for a better shot at a quiet summit.
Amenities
Near South Teton
All places →All trails →
0.9 mi awayMiddle TetonIconic Teton summit with big views via a stout Class 3 scrambleScenic Viewpoint
1.6 mi awaySchoolroom GlacierTextbook glacier with a turquoise tarn near Hurricane Pass
2 mi awayAmphitheater LakeHigh alpine cirque lake capping a tough, classic Teton hikeScenic Viewpoint
2.2 mi awaySurprise LakeQuiet alpine tarn below towering Teton peaks, reached by a tough climbScenic Viewpoint
4 mi awayAmphitheater Lake TrailSteep switchbacks to two stunning alpine lakes beneath granite wallsChallenging · 9.9 mi · 6.5 hr
4 mi awayDelta Lake TrailTurquoise glacial tarn beneath the Grand Teton via rugged scrambleChallenging · 8 mi · 6 hr
4 mi awayGarnet Canyon TrailSteep, spectacular canyon hike to the Tetons’ granite heart.Challenging · 8.4 mi · 5 hr
4 mi awaySurprise and Amphitheater Lakes TrailRelentless climb to two turquoise cirque lakes with huge Teton viewsChallenging · 10.1 mi · 6 hr
