Open Canyon - Granite Canyon Loop

Dogs No Dogs

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

Open Canyon looks like, well an "open book". Unlike the U-shaped canyons the Tetons which were carved by glaciers, open-book canyon is "V" shaped and carved primarily by streams. Because of its "V" shape, Open Canyon does not stick out to the eye and is often overlooked. This route described can be turned into a big adventure, exploring peaks and alpine lakes far from the crowds. A few favorite deviations from the route are scrambling up Mount Hunt and exploring the incredibly scenic Coyote Lakes at the head of the canyon. The route crosses over Mount Hunt Divide, connecting Open Canyon with Granite Canyon, another a less-visited area of the Tetons.

Backcountry camping within the national park requires a permit and is specific to a designated camp site, camping zone, or region. Review rules and regulations on the NPS website here.

This is a great long mountain run. Keep alert for wildlife.

This route can be done in a big day run or a 2-3 day backpacking trip. My description is for 3 days/2 nights and includes worthwhile excursions from the route.

From Granite Canyon Trailhead, follow the trail as it slowly climbs through the sagebrush to a junction, and take the Valley Trail northward. Now forested, the trail skirts the foot of the mountains until the turn for Open Canyon trail. Once in the canyon, the trail crosses the main creek and then back into the woods. Soon after, the first sets of designated backcountry sites appear, about 5.5 miles from the TH.

On day 2, you'll continue the somewhat mellow grade switchbacks towards Mount Hunt Divide. There is a bowl just prior to the divide. If you wish, drop your packs here and skirt the northern side of Mount Hunt to the Open Book headwaters. After walking off trail for a mile or so, head up right (north) to Coyote Lakes. Back on the trail, continue up the last switchbacks to Mount Hunt Divide. If you're interested in climbing Mount Hunt, drop your packs and scramble the 3rd-class southeast ridge to reach the summit.

The trail skirts the south side of Mount Hunt, now in Granite Canyon. About 2 miles from the divide, there is a small creek which spills from Indian Lake above. Fill up here, as there may not be a source of water for the next 2 miles. The trail descends to Granite Creek, where the Upper Granite backcountry sites are located. The Lower Granite backcountry sites are about 2 miles down trail from here.

On the last day, follow the sometime meandering, sometimes cascading Granite Canyon downhill to the junction for Open Canyon and then back to the TH (6-8 miles).

I have spooked bears and moose in Open Canyon. Carry bear spray and be alert.