Overview
Phelps Lake sits in a glacially carved basin on the southern edge of Jackson Hole, tucked between the steep walls of Death Canyon and the rolling terrain of Bridger-Teton National Forest. The 7-mile loop visits the lake from both sides, crossing between Grand Teton National Park and the national forest in the process. The loop is well-marked, moderately graded, and rewards hikers with a combination of mountain lake scenery, Teton Range views, and some of the most productive moose habitat in the greater Jackson area.
Most hikers complete this loop in 3 to 4 hours, making it a solid half-day trip from Jackson. The trailhead fills early on summer weekends, so a 7 or 8 AM start is strongly recommended. If the lot is full when you arrive, the park offers overflow parking areas at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center, which connects to the same trail system via a short connector path.
The Route
Starting from the Death Canyon Trailhead, the most common direction is counterclockwise: drop to the lake via the Valley Trail on the east side, circle the south shore, climb briefly to the overlook bench, and return on the west side. Total elevation change is modest at 700 feet spread over 7 miles, but the descent to the lake and the climb back out each account for 300-plus feet.
The first mile descends from the trailhead through aspen and conifer forest to the lake's east shore. A sandy beach area here is popular for breaks and, for those willing, a cold swim. The trail continues around the south end of the lake through open meadows and willow flats, which are prime moose territory from May through August. Slow down in these sections and scan the willows before moving through.
The west side of the loop climbs slightly through denser forest before returning to the trailhead elevation. A spur trail at the lake's southwest corner leads into Death Canyon proper for those wanting to extend the day into Grand Teton backcountry. The loop itself stays well below treeline. Trail surfaces are packed dirt and root-laced in places; good footwear is helpful.
When to Visit
The trail is typically snow-free by mid-June most years, though north-facing sections can hold snow patches into early July. July through September is the prime window. Wildflower blooms along the meadow sections peak in late June through mid-July. The lake is warmest for swimming in August.
September brings excellent conditions: fewer people, cooler temperatures, and aspen color beginning in the valley. The elk rut is audible in the surrounding hills through late September and into October. First significant snow can arrive by late October. After the first snowfall, the trail becomes muddy and potentially icy without microspikes.
Check air quality before visiting in July and August, as smoke from regional wildfires can reduce visibility and make strenuous hiking uncomfortable. The Checking Conditions Before You Go resource covers monitoring tools for air quality and trail conditions.
What to Bring
Seven miles at moderate elevation requires standard day hike preparation: at least one to two liters of water (the lake is not recommended for untreated drinking without a filter), sunscreen, and layers. The lake basin can be noticeably cooler than Jackson when afternoon clouds build. A light rain shell is worth carrying from mid-July through August.
This is active bear country. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. The willow corridors around the south shore are exactly the kind of habitat where surprise encounters with grizzly bears and moose happen. Hike in a group and make noise. For food storage requirements if you extend into Grand Teton backcountry, see bear canister requirements.
Practice Leave No Trace principles on this trail, particularly around the lake shore where vegetation is fragile and fire rings are not permitted.
Getting There
From Jackson, take US-89 north into Grand Teton National Park and pay the entry fee at the Moose Entrance Station. Continue north, then turn left (west) on Moose-Wilson Road. After about 3 miles, turn left (south) on the paved road to Death Canyon Trailhead. The lot is small; arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends. The drive from Jackson is approximately 20 minutes.
For a broader overview of the surrounding national forest, see Bridger-Teton National Forest. If you are new to the distinction between national park land and adjacent national forest land, National Forest vs. National Park covers what that boundary means in practice. Veterans should check America the Beautiful Pass for Veterans for information on reduced or free entry.