Hurricane Pass Trail

Overview

This is one of the Tetons’ great sufferfests—with a massive payoff. Most hikers start near String Lake or South Jenny Lake, then head up Cascade Canyon and into the South Fork to reach Hurricane Pass at 10,338 feet. Expect roughly 20+ miles round trip, depending on exactly where you start and whether you use the Jenny Lake shuttle. It’s a long, strenuous alpine day that rewards you with classic, close-up views of Grand, Middle, and South Teton.

The Route & Scenery

You’ll ease into it on good tread through Cascade Canyon before the grade steepens in the South Fork. The terrain is a mix of dirt and rocky singletrack with bridges, narrow sections, and switchbacks as you break into the high country. At the pass, views explode in every direction—down Cascade Canyon to the north and across to the Alaska Basin to the west. A short detour of roughly 100 yards brings you to Schoolroom Glacier, a small, textbook alpine glacier that’s a highlight of the day. Strong hikers and backpackers often continue along the Teton Crest Trail toward Sunset Lake (about 1.7 miles beyond the pass).

Difficulty & Who It’s For

Make no mistake: this is a very strenuous outing with significant elevation gain and thin air. Count on 9 or more hours for most parties. If you want the alpine drama without the full toll, turning around somewhere in the South Fork of Cascade Canyon still delivers big scenery with fewer miles.

Best Time to Hike

June through September is the typical window. Early summer can hold lingering snowfields; late summer often brings clear trails and wildflowers. Start at dawn for cooler temps, better wildlife sightings, and to dodge afternoon thunderstorms that commonly build at high elevations. Photographers will love the crisp morning light on the Teton summits; late-day light can be spectacular too—just leave ample time for the long descent.

Tips & Logistics

• Use the Jenny Lake shuttle to cut 3–4 miles off the round trip; check schedules before you go.
• Parking fills early at Jenny Lake/String Lake—arrive very early or aim for shoulder hours.
• Pack like it’s a mountain climb: extra layers, rain shell, warm hat/gloves even in summer, plenty of calories, and more water than you think you need. Weather at the pass is often windy and changes fast.

Nature Notes & Safety

This landscape is glacially carved—Cascade Canyon is a classic U-shaped trough—and Schoolroom Glacier is a living reminder of the forces that shaped these peaks. Watch for moose in the willows, marmots sunning on talus, squeaking pika, and the possibility of bears. Carry bear spray, make noise in brushy stretches, and know your etiquette around wildlife. If you’re staying out overnight, you’ll need a backcountry permit.