![]() You can take another spur trail back to the main trail without retracing your steps if you continue on past the lake, making your distance a little shorter overall. (This could be a destination of it’s own if you do not want to continue on, or if you cannot due to snow cover.) Since you’re this close, there is no reason not to swing by and take a break. Once out of the tree line, wildflowers begin filling in the canyon if you hit the season just right.ĥ.8 miles into the hike, you’ll reach the trail for Holly Lake. ![]() You’ll begin your ascent into the canyon, with views of the lakes coming more and more into view. Once you cross, continue to the junction and onto the Paintbrush Canyon Trail. When you reach the north end of String Lake, cross the bridge instead of continuing along the eastern edge of the lakes. The trail can begin at Jenny Lake, String Lake, or Leigh Lake, but for the sake of consistency through the post, we will start from the Leigh Lake Trailhead and go counterclockwise. The hike is a loop, but the preferred route is to go up Paintbrush Canyon and down Cascade Canyon. The first time I attempted this hike we were not able to complete it due to snow, but it was still a nice hike up Paintbrush Canyon and back down (pictures at bottom of page).īeginning at dawn allows you the most time to optimize daylight so that you have plenty of time to complete the hike. It is best to wait until mid-July to attempt this hike, and maybe into August depending on the spring snowfall. The total elevation gain is over 4000 feet. This trail also includes Holly Lake and Lake Solitude. This is a 20-mile loop up Paintbrush Canyon, over Paintbrush Divide, and down Cascade Canyon. If you plan on spending the night in a backcountry camping area you will need to acquire a backcountry camping permit, available at the Craig Thomas Visitor Center in Moose or the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.If you can do the mileage and the elevation, this is a classic Teton hike with great views, wildflowers, and scenery. Stop by a park Visitor Center before you hike to determine if you need an ice ax or crampons to hike over the divide. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of layers. Notes: Paintbrush Divide is often covered in snow until mid-summer. ![]() When you reach Jenny Lake, turn left and follow the trail back to String Lake Trailhead. At the mouth of Cascade Canyon, take a moment to gaze out from Inspiration Point and visit Hidden Falls. From the divide, descend to Lake Solitude and down Cascade Canyon. The trail ascends to the stunning Holly Lake, a great resting point, and then continues over the steep Paintbrush Divide. Follow the trail around the lake and then head up Paintbrush Canyon (look for trail sign). The loop trail begins at String Lake Trailhead. Trail Overview: This strenuous loop hike can be completed as a long day hike or an overnight by camping in Paintbrush or Cascade Canyon backcountry camping areas.
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