Cascade Canyon Trail

Route Description for Cascade Canyon Trail

Featuring a lovely boat ride, a beautiful waterfall, and mesmerizing mountain views, the Cascade Canyon Trail is a truly magical adventure. Demanding a valiant effort, this trek is recommended only for intermediate hikers and families with older children. Traveling deep into the Teton wilds, bears and moose are sometimes seen in the area. Before heading out, make sure at least one person in your party has a can of bear spray and knows how to use it properly. Note the Teton National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

The Cascade Canyon Trail is one of the most beautiful trails in the National Park. Wander amongst the looming Cathedral Group through the metamorphic rock and granite bound corridor and marvel at the remarkable views of the surrounding Teton Mountains. Bisected by Cascade Creek, huckleberry bushes, and pristine conifer forests, the beauty is unrivaled. Enjoy sights of curious pikas as you climb past polished glacial erratics and hanging cirques that are reminiscent of its glacial formation.

Once your camera is charged, begin your adventure along the Cascade Canyon Trail from the Jenny Lake Shuttle Dock. Enjoy the photogenic boat ride across Jenny Lake, then begin your hike along the North Cascade Creek Trail. Wander this route east beneath the coverage of looming conifers and over Cascade Creek. When you reach the path’s end, merge onto the South Cascade Creek Trail before diverting onto the Hidden Falls Trail. You will likely be in the company of several explorers here as Hidden Falls is a popular tourist destination.

Admire the beauty of the 61 m cascade that surges over the craggy rock face bound by lush conifers. Backtrack along the route, then veer left onto the Inspiration Point Trail. Hike up the switchbacks to incredible views of Cascade Canyon, the Cathedral Group, and Jenny Lake. Take the rightmost section of the loop, then venture into Cascade Canyon via the Cascade Canyon Trail.

Trekking west, the incline will relax, boasting a more peaceful experience as you explore the u-shaped glacial canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, pika, and bears as you progress through the rugged wilderness. Appreciate the beauty and the meditative sounds of Cascade Creek trickling over the rocky stream bed. Climbing into the backcountry, the looming Teton peaks will shade the valley, providing a much-needed break from the beating sun.

Admire the grandeur of the bounding mountainscape as you near the canyon’s end. You will ultimately reach the trail’s end at the T junction with the North and South Fork of the Cascade Canyon. From here, head back the way you came to Inspiration Point, keeping right along the Inspiration Point Trail and onto the South Cascade Creek Trail. From here, merge onto the Boat Dock Trail to the shuttle, which will float you back to your vehicle.

Trail Highlights

Cascade Canyon

A glacially carved u-shaped canyon, Cascade Canyon, passes through the Teewinot and Mount St. John. Bisected by Cascade Creek, this incredible canyon provides access to the Teton backcountry while boasting unrivaled views of the Cathedral Group—a collection of the tallest mountains in the range. Within the canyon, you will find the popular tourist destination—Hidden Falls, which cascades over 61 m through the metamorphic rock corridor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Cascade Canyon Trail?

The Cascade Canyon Trail is a 14.6 km out-and-back hike in the Grand Teton National Park.

Is the Cascade Canyon Trail difficult?

The Cascade Canyon Trail demands a modest effort and is rated as moderate-strenuous.