Pros & cons
PROS
- Ranger-led walks add access and depth to the historic buildings.
- Shows a rare, current-powered cable ferry site at a single-channel river crossing.
CONS
- Buildings and ferry operations are seasonal; winter offers limited interpretation.
- Extremely short and not a wilderness experience—more a museum-style walk.
Park in the Menors Ferry Historic District/Chapel of the Transfiguration lot just north of the Moose entrance; the paved loop begins from the lot.
Historic interiors and the replica ferry operate seasonally; expect limited access and interpretation in winter. Surfaces are mostly paved with some compact dirt or gravel.
Overview
This short, interpretive loop explores the Menors Ferry Historic District along the Snake River near Moose. At just 0.3 miles total (a loop), it’s an easy, mostly paved stroll linking historic buildings and river viewpoints. Expect more history walk than wilderness hike—great for families and anyone curious about how early settlers lived and moved through Jackson Hole.
What You’ll See
You’ll pass Bill Menor’s original cabin and country store, the Maud Noble Cabin, and outbuildings that paint a vivid picture of valley life from the 1890s to the 1920s. The trail reaches the ferry site where a replica cable ferry shows how river current powered crossings—no engine required. The setting frames classic views of the Teton Range across sagebrush meadows, and the adjacent Chapel of the Transfiguration is a worthy add-on for both architecture and mountain views.
Why This Spot Mattered
Most of the Snake River in Jackson Hole braids into multiple channels, but here it narrows to a single, predictable channel—ideal for a ferry. That quirk of river behavior shaped travel routes and settlement. The Maud Noble Cabin also hosted a pivotal 1923 conservation meeting that helped lead to the creation of Grand Teton National Park.
Trail Experience
Surfaces are primarily paved with some compact dirt or gravel segments. The grade is flat, making it approachable for most visitors and strollers. Ranger-led walks are offered in season and can unlock buildings and stories you might otherwise miss. Plan about 20–40 minutes for a self-guided loop, or up to an hour with a ranger program.
Best Time to Hike
Late spring through fall is prime: buildings and interpretive displays are open, and ranger programs run in peak season. In winter the loop may still be walkable, but most interiors and displays are closed, and the experience is more about scenery than interpretation. For photos, morning and late-afternoon light flatter both the Tetons and the historic structures. It’s usually calmer than the park’s headline trails, making it an easy, low-stress stop.
Logistics
Turn off Teton Park Road north of the Moose entrance and park in the Menors Ferry/Chapel lot; the paved path begins from the lot. No special permits are needed for a day visit. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails. Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.
Where it starts
43.6591, -110.7127Near Menors Ferry Historic Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayMenors Ferry Historic DistrictPioneer river crossing with a restored ferry and historic cabinsTrailhead · Parking
0 mi awayMenor’s General StoreAuthentic pioneer store on a quick, quiet historic loopExhibit · Parking
0.1 mi awayMaud Noble's CabinHistoric cabin where the park’s preservation story took shapeExhibit · Parking
0.2 mi awayChapel of the TransfigurationTiny log chapel with a window to the TetonsParking · Restroom
2.6 mi awayBradley-Taggart Lake LoopTwo sparkling lakes, big Teton views, and manageable miles.Moderate · 6 mi · 2.5 hr
2.6 mi awayTaggart Lake LoopClassic short Teton loop to a glassy lake beneath big peaksEasy · 3.8 mi · 2 hr
2.6 mi awayTaggart–Bradley Lakes LoopTwo glassy lakes, big Teton views, and a mellow 6-mile loop.Moderate · 6 mi · 2.5 hr
3.4 mi awayDeath Canyon Shelf TrailA high, windy bench with nonstop canyon views and real solitude.Challenging · 4 mi · 0 min
