Emma Matilda Lake

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Circle Emma Matilda Lake on this shoreline-hugging trail as it takes you to some of the best Teton Range vistas in the park.

This trail and lake are named after the wife of William O. Owen who was among the first four climbers to ascend to the summit of Grand Teton in 1898. The natural lake is 2.7 miles long and can be reached by way of a 1 mile route from a parking area at Two Ocean Lake or via a slightly longer trek from Jackson Lake Lodge.

The northern shore of Emma Matilda Lake winds uphill for a half-mile from the parking area to a large meadow favored by mule deer. The trail continues along the north shore of the lake through a dense pine forest sitting 400 ft. above water level before dropping down to an overlook where you'll enjoy awe inspiring views of the Tetons, Jackson Lake, and Christian Pond. The trail along the southern shore travels through another densely populated forest filled with spruce and fir trees.

The aquatic habitats along the lake and its adjacent forests, marshes and meadows fulfill the needs of many forms of wildlife. Diverse and abundant vegetation offers excellent food and cover. Look for moose, river otters, beavers, muskrats, coyotes and mule deer.