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Mount Jedediah Trail

Targhee National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
9 mi
Elevation Gain
2,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Est. Time
6-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Summit views of the Teton Range, Snake River Plain, and Idaho mountains
  • Jedediah Smith Wilderness designation preserves the west slope
  • Subalpine wildflowers in July through August
  • Rocky summit ridge with dramatic drop to the east
  • Far less traffic than Wyoming-side Teton trails
viewssummitwildflowersalpine meadow

Overview

The Mount Jedediah Trail in Targhee National Forest ascends the western ramparts of the Teton Range to a summit that delivers some of the most expansive views in eastern Idaho. Named for mountain man Jedediah Smith, who explored this region in the 1820s, the route climbs through the wilderness that bears his name: the Jedediah Smith Wilderness, a 123,000-acre reserve protecting the quiet west face of the Tetons.

From the summit, the Teton Range stretches north and south in both directions while the Snake River Plain spreads west to the horizon. The Idaho approach means crowds are a fraction of those on Wyoming's side, making this one of the better options for hikers seeking Teton grandeur without Grand Teton National Park's visitor volume.

The Route

The trail begins at the Moody Creek Trailhead and climbs through open meadows and spruce-fir forest, gaining elevation steadily. The route enters the wilderness boundary about a mile from the trailhead. The middle section traverses rocky switchbacks through the subalpine zone before breaking into open terrain below the summit. The final push to the ridgeline involves some scrambling over loose rock.

What to Expect

The exposed summit is vulnerable to afternoon lightning. Departing the trailhead by 6 a.m. allows time to summit and descend before typical afternoon storm development. The rocky upper terrain requires sturdy footwear. Views on clear days extend to the Yellowstone Plateau to the north.

Nearby

The Teton Crest Trail South begins from a different trailhead but offers the most comprehensive exploration of this wilderness. Victor and Driggs, Idaho both provide full services and are less than 30 minutes from most Targhee trailheads.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The strenuous rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Targhee National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Moody Creek Trailhead off Forest Road 009 west of Victor. Gravel lot with room for 12 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Targhee National Forest

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Teton Crest Trail South

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Hike the southern section of the Teton Crest Trail through Targhee National Forest, Idaho. This strenuous 14.0-mile point-to-point crosses high alpine passes with dramatic views of the Teton Range.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Mount Jedediah Trail?
This 9.0-mile out-and-back is rated strenuous with 2,800 feet of elevation gain. The sustained climb on rocky terrain demands solid fitness. Most hikers allow 6 to 8 hours for the full round trip.
When is Mount Jedediah accessible?
The summit is typically snow-free by mid-July. Early season visitors may encounter snow on the upper slopes above 9,000 feet. Trail conditions change quickly; check with the Teton Basin Ranger District before visiting.
What is the Jedediah Smith Wilderness?
The Jedediah Smith Wilderness covers 123,451 acres on the west slope of the Teton Range within Targhee National Forest. Designated in 1984, it protects the Idaho side of the Tetons and shares a boundary with Grand Teton National Park.
Is there water on the route?
Several seasonal streams cross the trail in the lower and middle sections. The upper slopes above treeline have no reliable water. Carry enough for the full climb, and filter any water taken from trail sources.