In Backpacker Magazine’s “BEST HIKES IN AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS” series from this summer, number one is the Teton Crest Trail.
Last issue, I highlighted a trail in Olympic National Park that was number five in the series and delivers a view from mountain alpine to Pacific Ocean beach. Sounds unbeatable, right?
Well, The Teton Crest Trail comes with a warning that after trekking here, you just might be spoiled for any other trail. That’s a tall order for any trail, especially for someone like me who was born and raised in Crater Lake country, and The Coastal Redwoods.
But reading on, you will find out just why they can make that claim.
On the hike you’ll experience the following;
-The 36 mile trek starts in moose country and traverses up and down expansive canyons, staying pretty much above the tree line. This alpine trail is all views, all the time.
-Many of the camping sites just happen to be located for spectacular dusk and dawn views. You will come away with many more additions to your sunrise and sunset collection.
-The trail crosses Hurricane Pass at 10,732 ft where the Grand, Middle and South Tetons are all in view at once. This doesn’t happen in too many locations and is a spectacular photo op. Like a telescopic viewing of a white prune; wrinkles and crenellations everywhere that are actually all mountain peaks and ridges.
-The tiny Schoolroom Glacier
-Cascade Canyon
-Avalanche Canyon
-Lake Solitude
-The Grand. A 5,000 foot trough
- 10, 720ft Glacier Divide
-Paintbrush Canyon
This obviously is not a garden variety pup tent day hike. This one is for real so leave your bikes and DVD players at home. The serious hiker will enjoy plodding along up and down moderate to severe grades including loose scrabbly rock. Your best hiking boots and sock combos are needed here. If you are a one sticker, you might consider bringing the other stick.
Yes, at least one over night is involved and you won't be home for dinner. Cancel the Disney thing because this will certainly eat up all of your vacation time.
Length; 36 miles
Locations; Moose Junction on US Hwy 187/89 near Jenny Lake, and the Death Canyon Trail Head near String Lake.
Permits; 1/3 for reservations starting Jan.1, the other 2/3 for walk ups the day before your hike.
Contact; (307) 739-3309, www.nps.gov/grte
Tetons
Park Page; http://www.adventure-crew.com/parks/GrandTetons.asp