![]() Thankfully, after a few minutes the storm clouds passed, the rain stopped and the blue skies reappeared-relieved, we happily trekked on to 10,700 foot Paintbrush Divide, now just 1.3 miles away.Īdmittedly, the climb up Paintbrush Canyon to Paintbrush Divide is a strenuous endeavor, but the grand-did someone say Teton?-scenery is beyond compare, truly breathtaking. Once back on the Paintbrush Canyon Trail proper, it started to rain, nothing threatening, just a slight shower-nonetheless, in preparation for what might come, we broke out the rain jackets and backpack covers. After a brief 15-minute rest at the lake, we continued climbing along the Holly Lake Trail for another 0.3 miles to rejoin the Paintbrush Canyon Trail-ever vigilant of the approaching weather system. Shortly after reaching Holly Lake, a few ominous clouds began rolling in from the west-not what we wanted to see, especially since we were now almost above timberline and exposed to the full force of the elements. When you reach the south end of Holly Lake, grab a comfy spot to sit and enjoy the view-this is also the perfect place to eat some lunch-we made ourselves at home on a large lakeside boulder, ditched the backpacks for a while and soaked in the sunshine as we snacked on trail goodies. If you wish to see Holly Lake, which we highly recommend, take a right at the junction for a fairly steep 0.5-mile climb to the beautiful waters of Holly Lake nestled within the shadow of Mount Woodring. ![]() Continuing up canyon, crossing several tributary streams from Mount Woodring, we zigzagged our way up a series of switchbacks to the Holly Lake Trail junction-the junction is located 5.8 miles into the hike. Another highlight along this section of the trail, approximately 3 miles into the hike, is a great view of Paintbrush Creek as it crashes its way down the canyon-as you explore the creek, be sure to look for Lewis Monkeyflowers, a pink blooming flower, which thrives near the water’s edge.Īs we left the towering grandeur of the lodgepole pines, Englemann spruce and Douglas fir and entered the high-walled canyon the views became progressively more spectacular-lichen covered boulders, wildflowers, and seasonal waterfalls combined for a dramatic landscape. As we climbed, the forest gradually thinned out, granting us nice down-canyon views of Leigh Lake and Jenny Lake-don’t forget to pause and turn around as you climb or you will miss this view. ![]() Immediately upon entering the mature forest, we felt at home and eager to accomplish one of the country’s best day hiking loops-0.7 miles later, and 1.6 miles from the trailhead, we began the gradual-for now- ascent up Paintbrush Canyon. Awe inspired, we continued to the north end of String Lake-now 0.9 miles into our long day hike, we crossed the inlet of the lake via a long footbridge and headed for the Paintbrush Canyon Trail. A bald eagle even made an appearance, soaring silently above the magnificent alpenglow and adding a regal air to an already unbelievably majestic scene. ![]() Hiking the loop in this counterclockwise direction-you can hike up Cascade Canyon if you choose-is usually preferred, because for most people it is easier to ascend a steep canyon than to descend it, and by descending Cascade Canyon, you get the benefit of terrific front-on views of the Cathedral Group.Įarly in the predawn hours of Augwe stepped onto the dusty trail that skirts the eastern shore of String Lake, and as we made our way towards the mouth of Paintbrush Canyon we were treated to a breath-taking sunrise-the pink sunlit peaks of the Teton Range reflecting in the calm waters of the lake. The Paintbrush Canyon/Cascade Canyon Loop begins at the Leigh Lake Trailhead, climbs up Paintbrush Canyon-the steeper of the two canyons-on its way to Paintbrush Divide and then descends via Cascade Canyon. There are many beautiful and easy hikes in the park, but we wanted something truly exceptional-cue the premier Grand Teton hiking trail -the 21.4 mile Paintbrush Canyon/Cascade Canyon Loop. Despite the miles of spectacular backcountry destinations, many visitors spend only a few hours touring the park, gazing at the fantastic mountains from their car or at the many scenic turnouts, but the best way to truly appreciate the park is on foot. ![]() The focus for most visitors is, of course, the jagged Teton Range that rises abruptly above the sage-covered valley, creating a panorama known around the world. Grand Teton National Park, located in northwestern Wyoming, is home to a landscape beyond compare-abundant wildlife, pristine lakes, waterfalls, and majestic mountains round out the incredible vistas. ![]()
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