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South Shore Jenny Lake
South Shore Jenny Lake – 3.8mi / 6.1km
This tour of the south shore of beautiful Jenny Lake features a beautiful waterfall, an overlook of the lake, and prime moose habitat. After taking the boat shuttle across the lake, start from the boat dock and work your way up Cascade Creek as it cascades through a pleasant forest. The network of trails in this area can be a bit confusing, so pay attention to the signs and follow them to Hidden Falls. Cross a bridge where a short spur trail takes you to the base of the lovely Hidden Falls.
After the falls, continue on the trail as it begins to climb up a trail hewn from the rocky cliffs. The trail is fairly wide, but features steep drop-offs which may be too much exposure for those with a fear of heights. As you climb through this section you get your first vantage of the lake from one of the switchbacks; a fantastic preview of what is to come. Summits of the mountains further up the canyon also begin to appear and are breathtaking. The trail leads to the aptly named Inspiration Point which is a popular and busy destination. The views of Jenny Lake and out to Jackson Hole are fantastic. Head back down across the bridge and past the Hidden Falls Spur Trail. Stay on the south side of Cascade Creek as you follow the signs down to the Jenny Lake Loop Trail. The trail quickly arrives at the shoreline.
As it heads south, it spends much of its time looking east over the picturesque lake. Shortly after the trail leaves the lake’s shore at the southern end, take the spur trail for Moose Pond. Aptly named, the ponds and surrounding willows are prime moose habitat. It is common to see moose feeding in the murky waters of the ponds. (For your safety and the safety of the animals, always make sure you keep your distance from these seemingly docile animals.) Return back up to the Jenny Lake Loop Trail and take a right to continue. The trail parallels the shoreline once again, alternating between filtered and open views of the lake. Just before crossing the bridge at the outlet of the lake, take the spur trail out on a peninsula which gives you incredible views of the lake and the majestic, jagged Tetons. Return to the trail, and continue across the bridge, passing the boat dock, back to the visitor center parking area.
Trailhead: Head west towards the Jenny Lake Visitor Center at the South Jenny Lake Junction and turn right into the Jenny Lake Visitor Center parking area. Head to the boat dock at the west end of the parking lot and take the boat shuttle for a nominal fee.
Elevation Gain: 750ft / 225m – Elevation Loss: 750ft / 225m
Click here for blogs and video on the South Shore Jenny Lake
