Two Ocean & Emma Matilda Lakes Inside Loop

This 9.4-mile loop starts at Two Ocean Lake and uses the south shore, climbs to Grand View Point, then follows the north side of Emma Matilda Lake before returning on the cutoff trail. It is the inside route through the connected trail network, not the park’s 13.2-mile Two Ocean–Emma Matilda loop, which circles the north shore of Two Ocean Lake. Allow about five to seven hours with breaks; expect a long day and roughly 1,175 feet of climbing. The regional route description walks it counterclockwise.

From the far end of the parking area, take the right fork along the south shore. The path spends long stretches in dense forest and brush, with thimbleberries and cow parsnip. A meadow about 1.8 miles in opens the best south-shore view of Two Ocean Lake. Around mile 2.1, continue straight through the willow and across the creek rather than following the faint left-hand social path; after that, the lake drops out of view as the trail crosses a ridge.

At about mile 3, turn toward Grand View Point and stay on the main trail past the Pilgrim Creek branch. The climb gains close to 550 feet over roughly eight-tenths of a mile. From the point, look east across both lakes. A short side path beyond it reaches a bare knoll with a westward view of Jackson Lake and the Tetons; the meadow on the descent opens another mountain panorama. Keep the main route at the spur to the Grand View Point parking area.

Join the north leg of Emma Matilda Lake around mile 5.8, then climb roughly 375 feet over six-tenths of a mile. The path follows a bluff above the lake for about a mile, with intermittent Teton views. Later it crosses a burn area from a 1994 lightning-caused fire, then opens into meadow and aspen groves with the Tetons beyond. At the fork around mile 8.4, take the left branch back toward Two Ocean Lake; the right branch continues around Emma Matilda and adds a different route.

NPS describes narrow trail and dense underbrush, with marshy, muddy ground after spring snowmelt. Mosquitoes can be heavy around the lakes; early to mid-summer also brings wildflowers. Bears are present in this area. Carry bear spray, make noise, and avoid hiking alone. Pets are not allowed on the route.

Two Ocean Lake Trailhead is at the end of Two Ocean Road. Reach Pacific Creek Road from the Moran Junction area, then turn onto Two Ocean Road and follow about 2.4 miles of gravel to the lot. The standard park entrance fee applies; NPS lists no separate activity fee or reservation requirement. The 6.4-mile Two Ocean Lake shoreline loop is a shorter alternative, but it is a separate route.