Hidden Falls – Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point/Hidden Falls – 1.8mi / 2.8km

This short, popular hike features a lovely waterfall and a great overlook of Jenny Lake. 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 towards the boat dock the way you came, or continue on up Cascade Canyon to explore the canyon and a variety of other destinations. (See Forks of Cascade Canyon, Lake Solitude, Hurricane Pass, and Avalanche Divide for descriptions.) Take the boat shuttle back, or hike the south shore of Jenny Lake and visit Moose Ponds which adds 2.4mi/3.9km. (See South Shore Jenny Lake for description.)

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. A longer stroll around the south end of Jenny Lake avoids the boat shuttle. It starts near the boat dock, and adds 2mi/3.2km each way. A third alternative, starts at the String Lake Trailhead and bypasses both the boat shuttle and Inspiration Point. It is 1.1mi/1.8km longer each way and follows along the northwest shore of Jenny Lake.

Elevation Gain: 500ft / 150m – Elevation Loss: 500ft / 150m

Click here for blogs and video on Hidden Falls

Click here for blogs and video on Inspiration Point

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