Bearpaw Lake Trail

Bearpaw Lake Trail is a 7.8-mile round-trip out-and-back from Leigh Lake Trailhead, following low-relief forest paths beside String and Leigh lakes to Bearpaw Lake. It’s a long walk with little climbing; allow about 4 to 5 hours at a relaxed pace, with time for the shoreline openings. The 7.8-mile figure turns around at Bearpaw. The park’s longer 9.2-mile Bearpaw-and-Trapper outing continues beyond it to Trapper Lake.

From Leigh Lake Trailhead, take the short paved access down to String Lake and turn right, heading north along its eastern shore. At about 0.9 mile, take the branch toward Leigh Lake instead of circling String Lake. Keep following the Bearpaw direction at the later split and turn back at Bearpaw; continuing to Trapper adds distance. There’s an unmarked junction near the start, so check your map when the paths divide.

The route is mostly forested, with roots and rocks underfoot and small ups and downs. You’ll get better lake views at a couple of shoreline openings: a rocky beach around 1.8 miles and a longer sandy stretch near backcountry camps around 2.3 miles. Around 2.75 miles, the trail reaches the edge of the area burned by the lightning-started Bearpaw Bay Fire in September 2009, which burned more than 2,900 acres. The burn was more visible east of the trail than along the lake.

Around 3.1 miles, the path turns away from Leigh Lake toward a meadow with views of Rockchuck Peak and Mount Woodring. At the Bearpaw–Trapper split, take the Bearpaw branch. The lake is smaller than String or Leigh, with grassy wetlands around much of its edge; the north end gives the best view toward Mount Moran’s lower slopes. Waterfowl or mule deer may use the wetland, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. Then retrace the same path to the trailhead.

Use Leigh Lake Trailhead, the third parking area after the String Lake lot and boat launch. Parking is often congested around midday, especially on weekends; restrooms are nearby. Day hikers don’t need a reservation or hiking permit, but the park entrance fee applies. Pets aren’t allowed. Teton Park Road is seasonally closed to this trailhead from November 1 through April 30; overnight backcountry stays require a permit.