Heron Pond-Swan Lake Loop Trail

This is the 3.1-mile Colter Bay loop that links Heron Pond and Swan Lake. Starting at the Hermitage Point Trailhead, follow the route to Heron Pond, continue to Swan Lake, then return to Colter Bay. It winds through forest and wetland, with views toward Mount Moran and the Tetons. The park calls it easy, lists 320 feet of gain and gives a 1–3 hour range. The grade is mostly gentle, but exposed roots and rocks keep it from feeling like a sidewalk; allow about two hours if you want time at both ponds.

From the south Colter Bay parking area, follow the paved access road toward the boat landing to the signed foot-trail start. Junctions connect with the longer Hermitage Point route, and one turn is unmarked. Keep a map handy at forks so you don’t carry on toward Hermitage Point or take the nearby Cygnet Pond branch by mistake.

A short side path reaches the pond edge. Lodgepole pine and grass frame the water, with Mount Moran and Bivouac Peak beyond and Half Moon Bay farther back. For a photo, keep the lily pads low in the frame and leave the mountains room above them.

Swan Lake is partly covered by lilies and grass, so it can look more like a wetland than an open lake. Both ponds are habitat for birds and other wildlife; the shore is the place to look as you walk past.