Love Jenny Lake? Try This Hidden Wyoming Lake Instead

Jenny Lake is easily one of my favorite places to visit in Grand Teton National Park. This crystal-clear lake with Teton Mountain views appears more like a painting than real life—the natural beauty you find here is hard to describe. Jenny Lake is also one of the most popular destinations in the park, drawing in thousands of people every year. Fortunately, when you want to escape the crowds, I have discovered Leigh Lake, the best hidden lake in Wyoming. It is a less crowded alternative in Grand Teton and just as stunning.

Why Jenny Lake Becomes So Crowded

In the summer, it doesn’t matter what time of day you visit Wyoming’s Jenny Lake; you can expect a crowd. This lake, approximately 2.2 miles long and 1.2 miles wide, lies along Teton Park Road, one of the park's main roads. There are no hard hikes to capture its beauty, and it is home to trailheads for popular destinations like Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, drawing in even more visitors.

However, one of the biggest reasons Jenny Lake becomes so crowded is the amazing views it offers. This lake was carved by glaciers and features crystal-clear water surrounded by the jagged, breathtaking Teton Mountains. Trails surround the lake, making it easy to capture different views, or you can even ride a shuttle that takes you across the water, leading you to even more trailheads and overlooks.

The Lake You Should Visit Instead

Yes, Jenny Lake is a destination you certainly need to visit at least once, but you don’t need to spend all your time there. In fact, despite its large parking lot, it can be extremely difficult to find parking even if you arrive early in the day. That’s why I love to recommend Leigh Lake.

To visit Leigh Lake, you will need to put on your hiking boots and tackle an easy, fairly flat trail. The Leigh Lake Trail is approximately 1.8 miles round trip and family-friendly. This lake is just north of Jenny Lake, and you will hike along the eastern shore of String Lake, which can also be busy due to its easy accessibility.

However, once you reach Leigh Lake, it’s much easier to find quiet in this national park. When you arrive at the water, be prepared to stop and stare at the breathtaking beauty surrounding you. The panoramic mountain views create the perfect backdrop—a backdrop that makes this national park rise to the top of your list of favorites (it is mine!).

Non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake, and it’s the perfect destination for kayaking or paddling on stand-up paddleboards. Make note that you will either need to carry your kayak and equipment along the trail, or you can paddle up String Lake. However, if you choose the String Lake route, you will still need to carry your boat approximately 0.25 miles to Leigh Lake. And because this area is quieter and more secluded, it is easier to spot wildlife here than in popular places like Jenny Lake. Just make sure that you have bear spray with you at all times.

Tips for Visiting Leigh Lake

One of the biggest drawbacks to visiting Leigh Lake is that you will need to park in the String Lake parking lot to access the trailhead. This parking lot can fill up on the weekends and holidays. It is best to arrive early in the day to avoid parking hassles.

Additionally, make sure that you are always prepared for a wildlife encounter. Always carry bear spray and make noise as you hike along the trails—bear bells are strongly encouraged. As mentioned before, if you plan to paddle on Leigh Lake, you will need to carry your boat along a short path from String Lake to Leigh Lake.  

Is it Worth Skipping Jenny Lake?

Jenny Lake is a destination in Grand Teton National Park that you don’t want to miss. However, you don’t need to stop there during every visit. Many underrated lakes in Grand Teton offer stunning views and solitude, such as Leigh Lake. Jenny Lake requires a little extra planning to visit, due to its crowds and parking hassles, but it will steal your heart. However, Leigh Lake offers just as much beauty—you’ll never want to leave.

For more information about Leigh Lake and other quiet lakes in Grand Teton, visit the National Park Service website. I also recommend checking out my 6-hour itinerary, where I spent an afternoon in the park and chose to skip Jenny Lake to visit another beautiful body of water.