Taggart Lake–Bradley Lake Loop

The Taggart Lake–Bradley Lake Loop is a 5.6-mile lollipop loop from Taggart Lake Trailhead, with a 1.2-mile approach that you walk in and out and a circuit between the two lakes. It climbs over a ridge to Bradley Lake, returns by the Valley Trail to Taggart Lake, then retraces the first stretch. Allow about 2 to 3 hours; 2 hours 45 minutes is a reasonable plan if you stop at both shores. The changing lake and mountain views make the extra miles worthwhile if you want more than the shorter Taggart-only walk.

From the parking area, cross open ground with the Tetons ahead. At the Beaver Creek junction, turn right; the route follows a gravel road briefly before narrowing to a footpath. A footbridge crosses Taggart Creek, with cascades just upstream, then the trail climbs beside the stream through aspen. At about 1.2 miles, take the Bradley Lake branch to the right. This is where the two-lake circuit begins; the left-hand route continues toward Taggart Lake on a shorter hike.

The Bradley branch gains the ridge between the two lake valleys. The climb is steady and there are rocks underfoot, but the overlook before the crest is a good reason to pause: Taggart Lake sits roughly 300 feet below. After crossing the ridge, the trail descends through thicker pine and spruce to the Valley Trail junction above Bradley Lake. Short paths reach the shore. Across the water, look for Mount Wister, Nez Perce, Middle Teton, Grand Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot rising behind the forest.

After visiting Bradley, return to the Valley Trail and head south. It climbs back over the ridge, opens briefly at a small meadow, then descends toward Taggart Lake. The trail follows the lake's east shore, where short side paths reach the water and the view shifts toward the southern Teton peaks. At the upper end of the lake, turn left onto Taggart Lake Trail and follow the familiar approach back to the lot.

This is a moderate hike, but it is not a flat walk between lakes: the route gains and loses height several times, with narrow stretches, dense underbrush and large rocks. The official page gives 860 feet of elevation gain, while its accessibility details give 890 feet; either way, expect a few real climbs. If you want a shorter outing, stop at Taggart Lake instead of taking the Bradley branch.