Lake Solitude

An Epic Journey to Lake Solitude

Perched at the back of Cascade Canyon, Lake Solitude is a challenging out-and-back hike starting from Jenny Lake. It offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Grand Teton, Teewinot, and Mount Owen, collectively known as “the Cathedral Group.” However, these spectacular vistas come at a cost: the full round-trip hike to Lake Solitude spans 18 miles and involves nearly 3,000 vertical feet of climbing. For those opting for the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake, the journey becomes a 14-mile round trip with a 2,670-foot elevation gain. Despite its difficulty, visitors assert that the hike is well worth the effort for the stunning scenery and frequent wildlife sightings.

Scenic Variations and Wildlife Encounters

Throughout your trek, you may glimpse the majestic Cathedral Group and even spot a moose along the way. Being in Cascade Canyon, the trail features numerous waterfalls that feed into Cascade Creek, which you will parallel and cross multiple times via wooden bridges. At about 2 miles away from Lake Solitude, you’ll cross the final bridge where the North Fork of Cascade Canyon opens up, revealing dramatic mountain vistas surrounding you. Although the Cathedral Group will be behind you at this point, the reflections on Lake Solitude and the views during the descent offer remarkable perspectives.

Trail Options and Starting Point

Whether you choose to start your hike with the shuttle boat or not, your adventure begins at South Jenny Lake. Hikers can either traverse around the lake for the full 18 miles or take the shuttle boat to trim 4 miles off the trek. Once on Jenny Lake’s western shore, the trail ascends approximately 600 vertical feet to Inspiration Point. About 4 miles beyond this point, the trail forks—take the right path to continue through Cascade Canyon towards Lake Solitude. The trail steepens significantly about 2 miles below Lake Solitude.

Planning Your Hike

Several factors influence how long the hike to Lake Solitude will take, including personal fitness levels, acclimation to the park’s elevation, trail conditions, frequency of rest stops, and possible wildlife encounters. Generally, plan for the hike to take between seven and ten hours. Be aware that snow may linger on the final 2 miles of the trail below Lake Solitude into early July. For the latest trail conditions, check-in with a park visitor center or ranger station and pick up a map. Traction devices like Microspikes are recommended for snowy stretches. For more information on this demanding yet rewarding hike, visit the park’s website.