7 Hikes In Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park Where You Can Dodge The Summer Crowds

Our nation's National Parks draw millions of visitors each year. While Yellowstone is one of the most popular parks in the country, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming gets a reputation for being a bit overlooked. Most first-time visitors stop in on their way to Yellowstone and they soon find out how badly they want to return to spend a little more time in the mountains. If you want to get to know Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming without getting overwhelmed by the crowds, plan to embark on any of these beautiful hikes!

1. Lake of the Crags Trail

Lake of the Crags Trail is a 4.5-mile trek with 2,800+ feet of elevation gain, so it's only for hikers who really want to work up a sweat. It's far less trafficked than the nearby Cascade Canyon, and every single step is worth the remarkable view you'll find when you stumble upon the Lake of the Crags. Check out the official trail AllTrails page for all the details.

2. Moose Ponds Trail

The Moose Ponds Trail is a 3.2-mile hike that takes you in a loop from Jenny Lake to the Lupine Meadow. If you love wildflowers and wildlife, this is one of the best places to stop and stretch your legs. Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

3. Bear Paw and Trapper Lake via Leigh Lake Trail

Bearpaw and Trapper Lake Trail is a 7.8-mile out-and-back hike that follows the quiet Leigh Lake trail from the String Lake parking lot. When you arrive at Bearpaw Lake, take some time to rest and absorb the wonder of nature that surrounds you. Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

4. Flagg Canyon, John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway

Flagg Canyon Trail is a 5.1-mile easy hike that's technically just beyond the boundary of the park, between Grand Teton and Yellowstone. It's a great place to hop out of the car and take in some fresh air before continuing your drive up north. Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

5. Shadow Mountain

Shadow Mountain is a 4.3-mile lightly trafficked trail that starts just steps away from the park's official boundary. It's hard to top these views of the Tetons! Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

6. Phelps Lake Trail

Traveling through Death Canyon along the Phelps Lake Trail takes you about 4.5 miles all the way to Phelps Beach. You'll have an amazing overlook along the way. Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

7. Middle Teton's Southwest Couloir

If you're up for a two-day trek (or a truly intense day hike), plan to tackle the Middle Teton. It's one of the easier summits to reach in the range, with no technical climbing necessary. The views from atop the mountain will take your breath away. This is a 12.7-mile hike that begins at the Lupine Meadows trailhead. Check out the official AllTrails page for all the details.

Which hike is your favorite? Have you explored any of the hikes we mentioned above? Let us know in the comments!