How to Reach Inspiration Point in Grand Tetons National Park, Wyoming
Taking the Teton Park Road off U.S. 191 at either the Moran or Moose Junctions, drivers can access the foothill trails of the Grand Tetons at various spots. The road traverses open grasslands where Wyoming wildlife is plentiful. Located above the shores of Jenny Lake, Inspiration Point by name is somewhat misleading. One may expect sweeping views of the Grand Tetons from this point, but since Mount Saint John and Mount Owen tower behind with the three Tetons just to the south, the views are more of Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole, and the Bridger Range, all phenomenal in their own right. The point is actually in the foothills of the Teton Range. The Hidden Falls Trail begins of the western shores of the lake and follows up the Cascade Canyon to the falls. There are two ways to access this trail. A well maintained trail skirts the southern end of the lake and is a pretty level trek; however a concessioner provides fifteen minute boat rides to Hidden Falls Trail head for a nominal fee. Choose the option that best fits your schedule. Once across the lake—a trip worth the price—the falls are a short climb away. Above the falls, the trail will switchback somewhat strenuously for less then a mile to a designated outcropping known as Inspiration Point. The lake is below in most of its entirety, placid, mirroring the cloudless sky.
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Instructions
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Getting Inspired at Inspiration Point in Grand Teton National Park
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Passengers returning from Inspiration Point wave at the passing boat. At fifteen minute intervals, the hiker-friendly schedule allows one to spend as much time of the day officially in the Grand Tetons as needed.
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Reaching Hidden Falls, one realizes that the falls are a slight extension of the already cascading stream dropping at several points into the lake. Plenty of shade offers many opportunities to stop, relax, or picnic.
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Overlooking treetops and Jenny Lake from Inspiration Point, one can see in the far distance toward the south, Jackson Hole, often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Wyoming. Make of that what one will.
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Tips & Warnings
Depending on budget and time, a boat trip across a lake in the Tetons is always suggested if just for the experience.
Many hikes in the park involve serious elevation gain. Other than distance, the trail around the southern part of the lake is comparatively relaxing.
Many people boat across and hike to the falls. A few continue up to the point. If one decides to continue beyond that, the trail is virtually deserted.
