Hidden Falls – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Hidden Falls is a breathtaking 100-foot cascade located within Grand Teton National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, this waterfall is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Learn more about Wyoming’s stunning waterfalls in our Wyoming Waterfalls Guide.
Getting to Hidden Falls
By Car and Boat
- Location: Hidden Falls is located in Cascade Canyon within Grand Teton National Park, near Jenny Lake.
- Directions: From the town of Jackson, take US-191 North for about 12 miles to the entrance of Grand Teton National Park. Follow the signs to Jenny Lake.
- Parking: There is a designated parking area at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center. Parking is free for visitors, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is advisable.
By Boat
- Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat: One of the most popular ways to reach Hidden Falls is by taking the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake. The boat ride is a scenic and enjoyable way to start your adventure.
- Boat Schedule: The shuttle operates from late May to late September, with frequent departures throughout the day. Tickets can be purchased at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center or online in advance.
Hiking to Hidden Falls
Once you reach the west shore of Jenny Lake, there are two main options to hike to Hidden Falls:
Via Shuttle Boat
- Trail Description: After disembarking from the shuttle boat, the hike to Hidden Falls is a relatively easy 1-mile round trip. The trail is well-marked and maintained.
- Highlights: The trail meanders through a beautiful forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Cascade Canyon. The hike is suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities, providing a peaceful and scenic experience.
Via Jenny Lake Loop Trail
- Trail Description: For those who prefer to hike the entire way, the Jenny Lake Loop Trail offers a more challenging 5.2-mile round trip hike. This trail takes you around the south end of Jenny Lake and then up to Hidden Falls.
- Highlights: This longer hike offers breathtaking views of Jenny Lake, the Teton Range, and the surrounding wilderness. The trail is well-maintained but includes some steep sections and uneven terrain, making it suitable for more experienced hikers.
Exploring Hidden Falls
Hidden Falls offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some highlights:
The Waterfall
- Description: Hidden Falls features a dramatic 100-foot cascade over a series of rocky ledges into a clear pool below. The waterfall is particularly impressive during the spring melt and after rainfall when the water flow is strong.
- Highlights: The viewing areas around the falls offer excellent vantage points for photography and sightseeing. The sound of the cascading water and the peaceful surroundings create a calming atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Inspiration Point
- Description: Just a short hike beyond Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point offers stunning panoramic views of Jenny Lake, the Teton Range, and the surrounding wilderness.
- Highlights: The hike to Inspiration Point adds an additional 1 mile round trip to your journey but is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views. The trail includes some steep and rocky sections, so be prepared for a more challenging hike.
Tips for Visiting Hidden Falls
- Timing: The best time to visit is during the late spring, summer, and early fall when the weather is warm, and the water flow is strong. Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes with good traction, especially if you plan to hike the longer Jenny Lake Loop Trail or continue to Inspiration Point.
- Safety: Stay on the designated paths and be cautious around the waterfall. The rocks near the falls can be slippery, and the trails can be steep and uneven.
- Hydration: Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike and explore the area for an extended period.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty of Hidden Falls by carrying out all trash and respecting the environment.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
While visiting Hidden Falls, consider exploring other attractions in Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding area:
Jenny Lake:
Enjoy boating, fishing, and scenic views of one of the most beautiful lakes in the park.
Cascade Canyon:
Continue your hike into Cascade Canyon for even more breathtaking scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife.
String Lake:
A nearby lake offering swimming, kayaking, and picnicking opportunities.
Moose Wilson Road:
A scenic drive with opportunities to see wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Teton Village:
A nearby resort offering dining, shopping, and outdoor activities year-round.
Other Wyoming Waterfalls
Fairy Falls:
Fairy Falls is a popular 200-foot waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, accessible via a scenic hike.
Firehole Canyon Falls:
Firehole Canyon Falls is a picturesque waterfall along the Firehole River in Yellowstone National Park.
Gibbon Falls:
Gibbon Falls is a wide, 84-foot waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, located along the Gibbon River.
Lewis River Falls:
Lewis River Falls is a stunning waterfall on the Lewis River in Yellowstone National Park, featuring both upper and lower cascades.
Lower Falls:
Lower Falls is the iconic 308-foot waterfall in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, offering breathtaking views.
Moose Falls:
Moose Falls is a charming 30-foot cascade in Yellowstone, near the park’s southern entrance.
Mystic Falls:
Mystic Falls is a beautiful 70-foot waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, located near Biscuit Basin.
Rustic Falls:
Rustic Falls is a 47-foot waterfall along the Golden Gate Canyon in Yellowstone National Park.
Silver Cord Cascade:
Silver Cord Cascade is a breathtaking waterfall in Yellowstone, plunging 1,200 feet into the Yellowstone River.
Undine Falls:
Undine Falls is a scenic 60-foot cascade in Yellowstone National Park, visible from the park road.
Upper Falls:
Upper Falls is a powerful 109-foot waterfall in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, located upstream from the Lower Falls.
Beartooth Falls:
Beartooth Falls is a dramatic cascade in the scenic Beartooth Mountains, surrounded by alpine forests and rugged terrain.
Shell Falls:
Shell Falls is a stunning waterfall along Shell Creek, located in the Bighorn National Forest.
Clear Creek Natural Bridge:
Clear Creek Natural Bridge is a unique natural bridge formed by Clear Creek, located near Pinedale in western Wyoming.
Porcupine Falls:
Porcupine Falls is a picturesque 200-foot waterfall in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, reachable by a steep trail.
Bucking Mule:
Bucking Mule Falls is a stunning 600-foot waterfall in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, accessible via hiking trails.
Plan Your Visit
- Trail Details: Moderate trails suitable for hikers of most skill levels.
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, and shuttle services are available.
- Nearby Dining: Dining options are available in Moose or Jackson.
Additional Resources
Conclusion
Hidden Falls is a gem of Grand Teton National Park, offering a serene escape into nature and unforgettable views. Whether you hike, photograph, or simply relax by the falls, this destination promises an enriching experience. Plan your next adventure today with Waterfalls Guide, your ultimate resource for discovering breathtaking waterfalls across the United States!
Accommodations for Hidden Falls
Accommodations for Hidden Falls are available in the following areas
- Alpine
- Cody
- Dillon MT
- Pinedale
- Jackson and Jackson Hole
- Teton Village
- West Yellowstone MT