Granite Lakes to Green Lakes Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fishing · Geological Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

This loop explores a not-so-visited region of the Tetons, so if you're looking for solitude consider this one. It can be done in two or three days as an enjoyable backpack, or one BIG day for the ambitious hiker or trail runner. The route ascends through forests and wildflower-rich meadows to the serene Granite and Green Lakes Basins, nestled between Green Mountain and the Continental Divide. Like most routes in the Tetons, there is a good deal of elevation gain.

A few things to consider: While no permits are required for day hikes, overnight backpackers should obtain a free wilderness permit from the Targhee National Forest. As always in these mountains, carry bear spray and practice proper food storage techniques.

Starting at South Leigh trailhead, run the South Leigh Trail and enter the Jedediah Smith Wilderness. The trail is easy as it follows South Leigh Creek for about 3.7 miles before ascending switchbacks on the south wall of the canyon towards Granite Basin. After the junction with the Andy Stone Trail, there are relaxing alpine meadows to enjoy the view of South Leigh Creek canyon below. Not much farther is the Granite Basin Lakes (~7.5 miles from the TH), a good ending point for the day. Granite Lakes are nestled between Littles Peak (10,689 ft) and a satellite peak just off the western edge of the Continental Divide.

Continue past Granite Basin Lakes towards the divide and around the satellite peak to the junction for Teton Crest North Trail. Going either left or right at this junction will meet at the same point down basin, although right is much more scenic. If going right on the Teton Crest North trail, make a left at the Green Lakes junction and pass through one small lake before reaching the larger and more accommodating Green Lake. Green Mountain (9,609 ft) hovers overhead. Green Lake is also another pleasant place to camp and only 11.5 miles from the trailhead.

The trail skirts Green Mountain, overlooking the adjacent North Leigh Creek drainage before switchbacking down Tin Cup Creek. At the bottom of the trail, take Tin Cup Trail at the junction and cross the creek. Just after the crossing is a flat bench which provides a good option for camping.

After a short time on Tin Cup Trail, cross the major gully via Beaver Creek Trail and ascend the north ridge of Beard Mountain. This trail circumnavigates the mountain, offering views of Teton Valley before dipping back into the woods and rejoining the South Leigh Trail.