Paintbrush Divide/Lake Solitude Loop

Hike Name: Paintbrush Divide/Lake Solitude Loop Location: northwest WY Length: 20 Submitted by: Alan Smith Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Wyoming trail reviews Wyoming national parks Wyoming state parks
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Description
This loop through the Grand Tetons was the best hike I have done in my life. From abundant wildlife to high alpine scenery, it really doesn't get any better than this. Although it is recommended that you do this as an overnighter, we did it as a long day hike. Holly Lake and North Forks past Lake Solitude appeared to have some good campsites. We started at String Lake, at the Leigh Lake trailhead, and walked in a semicircle 1.7 miles around the lake, before reaching a trail junction that takes you up into Paintbrush Canyon, at which the trail begins climbing. After walking through forest, the canyon really opens up with impressive views towards the divide, and back towards the valley floor. We saw a black bear walking along the meadows going up into the canyon, about 60 yards away. We reached Holly Lake after a little more than 6 miles, but had climbed all the way to 9,400 ft. Holly Lake is a true alpine lake, and a great spot for a lunch break or campsite. From there, its another 1.7 miles of climbing up to the Paintbrush Divide. This section is very steep, narrow, rocky, and icy even in mid summer, but the views are incredible and it really gives you an adrenaline rush. At 10,700 feet, Paintbrush Divide sits right at the midpoint of the Teton range. We scrambled up a side peak to the right of the divide, which gave us an unbelievable 360 view, with the Grand Teton right in front of us. It felt like we were on top of the world. After leaving Paintbrush Divide, you drop 2.5 miles down to Lake Solitude, which is another beautiful alpine lake. Past Lake Solitude, we saw a couple of bull moose down by the river, one of which was huge. The descent down Paintbrush Divide and past Lake Solitude, which at this point is part of the Teton Crest Trail, gives you incredible views looking right at the Grand Teton. After another 3 miles past Solitude, you turn left into Cascade Canyon which takes you all the way to Inspiration Point, Hidden Falls, and Jenny Lake. Even though its way overcrowded, Hidden Falls is definitely something work your time. After you pass the falls, you walk for another 2 miles along the shore of Jenny Lake back to the String Lake parking lot. Whether done as a long day hike or overnighter, its a strenuous trip, but an unforgettable one that will give you the experience of a lifetime.

Its best to wait at least until mid-July to do this hike, unless you have an ice-axe. I went on July 19 and the rangers said it hadn't been accessible without an axe until just a few days before.

Directions to Hike
From Jackson, take US 89/191 north 12 miles to Moose Junction, then take a left and pass the park headquarters. From there, its another 10 miles to String Lake Junction, where you'll take a left and go another 1.5 miles to the String Lake parking area. The trailhead is at the very end of the parking lot

Contact Information
Grand Teton National Park
PO Box 170
Moose, WY 83012

(307) 739-3300

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