Phelps Lake
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The climb back from the lakeshore to the overlook is significantly harder than the descent — budget twice as much time for the return, carry more water than you think you need, and watch for signs of altitude fatigue if you're visiting from lower elevations.
This is active bear country, particularly in late summer when berries ripen along the trail — carry bear spray accessible on your chest or belt, not buried in your pack, and make noise on blind corners through the forest sections.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Start from the Death Canyon trailhead rather than the Rockefeller Preserve — it's less trafficked and gives you the overlook approach, which is the more dramatic way to first see the lake.
Once you reach the lakeshore, walk south along the east shore for about ten minutes to find flat granite slabs perfect for swimming access — the main junction area gets most of the foot traffic.
Hit this trail in late September when the aspens in the surrounding draws turn gold — the contrast against the dark lake water and grey canyon walls is one of the most underrated fall color scenes in the Tetons.
Photos
NPS Photo/A. Falgoust
