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Grand Teton Lower Saddle (Lower Saddle - Grand Teton National Park)
Hiking Trail
Hard
12.21 mi
5,018 ft
Epic trek to the saddle in between the Middle and Grand Teton.
If you are looking for a thrilling day hike in the Tetons, you have found the right adventure. Trekking to the Lower Saddle between the Middle and Grand Teton is not for the faint of heart. It requires endurance and commitment. Yet, the entire journey is extremely rewarding, as the views start early and get better throughout. Starting off with a gentle ascent, you work your way to the Valley Trail junction. Along the way, look back to the valley for expansive views. Once you ascend a few gentle switchbacks, you step into an alpine wonderland after veering left into Garnet Canyon. The Middle Teton looms above you as you traverse through the Canyon. Take some extra time to marvel at the grandeur of the Middle Teton. This section of the route requires some scrambling over large boulders, requiring full attention and presence. The trail then toughens once you get past "The Meadows," but the sense of adventure grows with each step. The elevation really picks up from here on out but the adrenaline keeps you going. The trail is clear most of the way and the open vistas are simply awesome. The higher you ascend, the more you get a sense for your perspective in the Tetons. When you think it can't get harder, you must use a fixed rope to pull yourself up a steep rock wall to reach the Lower Saddle. Reaching the Lower Saddle is a gratifying moment. Nothing but pure joy! So much work has been put in, and now the view is the payoff. Take it all in and then head back down whenever you are ready. This route is perfect for someone who is not a serious climber but is looking for something more challenging than a standard on-trail day hike. The route goes through multiple ecosystems and features a nice combination of on and off trail hiking. Another plus is you encounter some individuals climbing the Grand, getting a sense for their demanding task. This is definitely one of the best hikes the Teton Range has to offer. Written by Jason Weiss
If you are looking for a thrilling day hike in the Tetons, you have found the right adventure. Trekking to the Lower Saddle between the Middle and Grand Teton is not for the faint of heart. It requires endurance and commitment. Yet, the entire journey is extremely rewarding, as the views start early and get better throughout. Starting off with a gentle ascent, you work your way to the Valley Trail junction. Along the way, look back to the valley for expansive views. Once you ascend a few gentle switchbacks, you step into an alpine wonderland after veering left into Garnet Canyon. The Middle Teton looms above you as you traverse through the Canyon. Take some extra time to marvel at the grandeur of the Middle Teton. This section of the route requires some scrambling over large boulders, requiring full attention and presence. The trail then toughens once you get past "The Meadows," but the sense of adventure grows with each step. The elevation really picks up from here on out but the adrenaline keeps you going. The trail is clear most of the way and the open vistas are simply awesome. The higher you ascend, the more you get a sense for your perspective in the Tetons. When you think it can't get harder, you must use a fixed rope to pull yourself up a steep rock wall to reach the Lower Saddle. Reaching the Lower Saddle is a gratifying moment. Nothing but pure joy! So much work has been put in, and now the view is the payoff. Take it all in and then head back down whenever you are ready. This route is perfect for someone who is not a serious climber but is looking for something more challenging than a standard on-trail day hike. The route goes through multiple ecosystems and features a nice combination of on and off trail hiking. Another plus is you encounter some individuals climbing the Grand, getting a sense for their demanding task. This is definitely one of the best hikes the Teton Range has to offer. Written by Jason Weiss
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trailhead to Lower Saddle of the Grand | 6.42 mi | 4,728 ft | 13.9% |
| Valley Trail & Garnet Canyon Trail Climb | 1.69 mi | 673 ft | 7.5% |
| Teton Park Rd Climb | 1.01 mi | 351 ft | 6.5% |
| bear? | 0.90 mi | 666 ft | 13.9% |
| End Highlands Rd Climb | 1.37 mi | 784 ft | 10.8% |
| End Highlands Rd Climb | 0.32 mi | 364 ft | 21.1% |
| Teton Park Rd Climb | 1.37 mi | 1,007 ft | 13.9% |
| End Highlands Rd Climb | 0.27 mi | 157 ft | 11.0% |
| Teton Park Rd Climb | 0.53 mi | 384 ft | 13.1% |