Explore three stunning sub-alpine lakes nestled beneath the highest peaks in the Tetons.

Statistics

2 - 3

hrs

1,061

m

1,061

m

18

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Difficult

Description

Nestled along the eastern slopes of the Grand Teton itself, this run explores three stunning sub-alpine lakes and offers close-up views of the dramatic mountain peaks.

For hikers and backpackers, this route is often treated as two separate routes: one to Delta Lake, the other to Amphitheater Lake.

An experienced trail runner, however, should have no problem reaching both lakes on a single run. The run begins at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead, located at the end of a gravel road not far from Jenny Lake.

There is no turn-around for larger vehicles, and the trail's popularity means you should aim for an early morning start to avoid the crowd.

In the event that the main parking area is full, there is plenty of roadside parking available. Other than a short spur to Delta Lake, the entire run is on the Amphitheater Lake Trail, originally known as Glacier Trail.

There is only one other trail junction with Garnet Canyon where you'll want to keep right to continue to Surprise Lake, then Amphitheater Lake .25-miles later.

According to [TetonHikingTrails.com](http://www.tetonhikingtrails.com/amphitheater-lake.htm), both trails are "among the first hiking trails to be constructed in Grand Teton National Park." The article continues by stating how Amphitheater Lake also "served as a base camp for many historic first ascents along the north side of Grand Teton." Early expeditions to the summit continued up the western shores of the lake, but it didn't take long for mountaineers to realize there is a peak resting directly in front of the Grand Teton.

"The mountain now known as Disappointment Peak received its name in 1925 when two climbers reached its summit and discovered a deep chasm between it and Grand Teton."