Leigh Lake Trail

Leigh Lake Trail is an easy 1.8-mile round-trip out-and-back from String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead. It follows the east shore of String Lake, then reaches the south end of Leigh Lake before returning the same way. Allow one to two hours; the park describes about 110 feet of climbing. Choose it for a relaxed lakeshore walk with Teton views, not for a strenuous climb. The 1.8 miles includes the walk to Leigh Lake’s southern shore. Turning around earlier makes a shorter outing; continuing north along Leigh Lake is a separate extension.

Five or six stairs lead from the access area to the mostly level trail. A short paved stretch gives way to dirt tread with roots, branches and rocks. The path stays close to String Lake, with water on one side and limber pine on the other. It is a straightforward walk, though the uneven tread and initial stairs mean it is not step-free. At the north end, follow the continuation toward Leigh Lake rather than turning onto the String Lake loop.

The walk reaches the south end of Leigh Lake at a small portage launch, where paddlers carry canoes or boards between the two lakes. Steps lead down to the shallow water. Pause at the shore for clear water and the Teton range beyond the forested banks. For a photo, keep a strip of water in the foreground and the peaks above the far shore; it gives the lake and mountains a sense of scale. The route only visits Leigh Lake’s southern end. Walking farther north along its east shore adds distance, with more beach access and less obstructed views.

Start at String and Leigh Lakes Trailhead, reached from Teton Park Road by the North Jenny Lake Junction. Its shared parking lot commonly fills in midsummer; arrive before 9 a.m. for the best chance of a space. The hike has no separate activity fee or reservation, though park entry fees apply. Carry water; a potable source along the route was not established. Several trails in this area can hold snow into mid-July, so check conditions before setting out.

Pets are not allowed. Bears are active in the String and Leigh Lakes area, so give wildlife plenty of space and follow park guidance. An overnight stay in the backcountry requires a permit; the short day hike does not.