Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake which includes mountains and a lake or waterhole
Jenny Lake which includes mountains, hiking or walking and tranquil scenes
Jenny Lake featuring rapids and a river or creek
Jenny Lake showing forest scenes, 4-wheel driving and tranquil scenes
Jenny Lake featuring rapids and a river or creek


Discover one of the most popular areas of Grand Teton National Park via boat tours, scenic lookouts and walking trails. 

Marvel at the serene natural beauty of the snow-capped mountain peaks that rise from a shoreline of forested valleys when you visit Jenny Lake. Embark on family-friendly adventures on foot and by boat to get close to the remarkable landscapes of the Teton Range. Jenny Lake is a 12,000-year-old glacial lake set at the base of Cascade Canyon. It’s one of only two lakes in Grand Teton National Park where motorized boating is allowed.

The southern section of the lake is the more developed. Browse exhibits on the ecology, geology and wildlife of the national park at Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Pick up park maps and find out about ranger-led tours. Purchase backcountry permits and check the status of trails at Jenny Lake Ranger Station.

Join a 1-hour scenic boat tour of the lake and hear stories about the local plants, animals and landscapes. Gaze in awe at the Cathedral Group, a mountain range that includes the soaring peaks of Grand Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot. Rent a canoe or kayak and set your own leisurely pace.

From the Jenny Lake Trailhead, the Jenny Lake Trail skirts the lake’s southern banks and leads to the base of Cascade Canyon. Follow Cascade Canyon Trail through thick woodland to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point lookout. Adventurous visitors might want to continue to the Forks of Cascade Canyon trails. Alternatively, reach the canyon by catching a shuttle boat.

North of Jenny Lake Trailhead, the waterfront pathway has access to several viewpoints. This route can also be traveled by bike or car. Whichever route you choose, watch for black and grizzly bears, deer, marmots and moose.

The lake is a 30-minute drive north of Jackson and 40 minutes from Teton Village. Be aware of pedestrians when driving on the Jenny Lake Scenic Drive. Use the free parking at the visitor center. Jenny Lake Campground is a great place to pitch a tent after a day of exploring. Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Jenny Lake is accessible year round, although closed to car traffic from November through April. Boat tours and rentals operate from May through September.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Jenny Lake Lodge

Jenny Lake Lodge

4 out of 5
N Jenny Lake Jct, Moose, WY
Jenny Lake Lodge
Jackson Lake Lodge

Jackson Lake Lodge

3.5 out of 5
101 Jackson Lake Lodge Road, Moran, WY
Jackson Lake Lodge
Colter Bay Village

Colter Bay Village

2.5 out of 5
11 Miles North Of Moran Jct, Highway 89, Moran, WY
Colter Bay Village
Grand Targhee Resort

Grand Targhee Resort

2.5 out of 5
3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta, WY
Grand Targhee Resort
Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole

Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole

5 out of 5
7680 Granite Loop, Teton Village, WY
Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole
Gravity Haus Jackson Hole

Gravity Haus Jackson Hole

3 out of 5
3345 West Village Drive, Teton Village, WY
Gravity Haus Jackson Hole
The Hostel

The Hostel

1.5 out of 5
3315 Village Dr, Teton Village, WY
The Hostel
Snake River Lodge - Amenities at Sister Property

Snake River Lodge - Amenities at Sister Property

4 out of 5
7710 Granite Loop Rd, Teton Village, WY
Snake River Lodge - Amenities at Sister Property
Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa

Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa

4.5 out of 5
3385 Cody Lane Drive, P.O. Box 564, Teton Village, WY
Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Jenny Lake

At Jenny Lake, visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking along stunning trails and observing local wildlife. The area offers excellent skiing options for those seeking a winter adventure, alongside additional recreational pursuits to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful hike or a leisurely day in nature, Jenny Lake promises an unforgettable experience amidst Wyoming's breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

Discover the quaint Colter Bay Campground store, located 17.7km from Jenny Lake, for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, 32.2km away, is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere. Westbank Angler, 27.4km from Jenny Lake, offers a range of outdoor gear.

Recreation

At Climbers Ranch, enjoy the serene surroundings with nature walks and meditation sessions, just 6.4km from Jenny Lake. Experience rejuvenation at Teton County-Jackson Recreation Center, 32.2km away, offering wellness classes and relaxation spaces. For outdoor sports enthusiasts, Targhee Village Golf Course, located 24.1km away, provides invigorating golf amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

Grand Targhee Resort offers exhilarating skiing and snowboarding experiences, located 17.7km from Jenny Lake. For hiking enthusiasts, the Jenny Lake Trailhead, a mere 1.3km away, presents stunning views and scenic trails. Meanwhile, the Blackfoot Ski Lift, also 17.7km away, provides thrilling ski adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Jackson Hole Playhouse, a charming theatre 32.2km from Jenny Lake, offering culture and romance. Alternatively, visit the Pink Garter Theater, also 32.2km away, where you can enjoy entertaining performances in a family-friendly atmosphere. Both venues promise a delightful evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake, located in the stunning surroundings of Moose, Wyoming, offers a plethora of attractions for every type of adventurer. From breathtaking mountain views to scenic lookouts within the national park, visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities and nature’s beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a tranquil escape, the area promises an unforgettable experience filled with picturesque landscapes and thrilling pursuits.

  • Grand Teton National Park: A stunning expanse of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, Grand Teton National Park offers unparalleled outdoor adventures. Explore scenic trails, indulge in photography, and enjoy breathtaking views that capture the essence of the American West, all located a mere 4.8km from Jenny Lake.
  • Jenny Lake Visitor Center: Situated just 1.6km from Jenny Lake, this visitor centre serves as a gateway to exploration. With informative exhibits and friendly staff, it's perfect for families seeking adventure. Discover hiking routes and local wildlife while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
  • Teton Range: Towering majestically 9.7km from Jenny Lake, the Teton Range is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy hiking, climbing, and stunning vistas that showcase the dramatic beauty of the mountains, making it an unforgettable experience.

Best time to go to Jenny Lake

The best time to visit Jenny Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Jenny Lake falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Jenny Lake falls in December, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January14.5°F (-9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February17.1°F (-8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March25.0°F (-3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April31.8°F (-0.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
May41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August60.8°F (16.0°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
September52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October36.7°F (2.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
November22.5°F (-5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
December13.8°F (-10.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Jenny Lake

To save money on your trip to Jenny Lake, consider visiting in April or October to November when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance or exploring last minute deals on platforms like Expedia can lead to significant savings, especially if you book for a Tuesday. Utilise Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly hotels and sort prices from lowest to highest. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can yield further discounts. Look for the green banner on Expedia for the best deals and rates.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Jenny Lake are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Jenny Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Jenny Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Jenny Lake is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save money by combining your Jenny Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.