Explore Delta Lake in Grand Teton National Park

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We spent this summer exploring several national parks and completing many hikes. We hiked to Grinnell Glacier and Avalanche Lake in Glacier National Park. We hiked Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park. We hiked to the Prismatic Spring overlook in Yellowstone. But the Delta Lake Wyoming hike in the Grand Tetons was definitely one of my favorites. This hike was the most challenging of them all, but so rewarding when we reached the emerald green lake at the end.

If you are interested in the Delta Lake Wyoming hike, I highly recommend you give it a shot. I hiked it with my husband and my kids–ages 12, 10 and 8. We didn’t see any other kids on the trail up, but once we arrived at the lake, we saw a few more, including a couple even younger than mine. If you are hiking with kids, check out my post about kids hiking essentials that will make it easier on all. And if you’re new to hiking yourself, check out my Amazon store for all my favorite hiking gear to get you started.

Check out my list of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park if you want to explore even more.

Delta Lake Hike Overview

• Length: A little over 8 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: About 2,300 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Trailhead: Lupine Meadows Trailhead, just south of Jenny Lake

When you start off at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead, you’ll see a board with hiking information on it, however, the Delta Lake hike in Wyoming doesn’t appear on that or on any of the trail markers along the way. I think it’s because this hike technically goes off trail to get to the final lake destination. But don’t be alarmed.

I used the AllTrails+ app to guide my way. It’s an awesome tool because it works even without cell service (as long as you download the map ahead of time). We missed the turnoff to go off trail, and shortly after, my phone was vibrating to let me know that we were going the wrong way. I highly recommend you use the AllTrails map to track your hike to keep you on track.

I also used this to read reviews up until the day we hiked. Because of that, I knew that there was still snow on the trail and that there had been recent bear activity on the trail, both at the entrance and on the switchbacks.

We did end up seeing a bear just off the trail on the switchback portion of the hike. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings, make noise as you hike and be sure to carry bear spray.

I got a picture of the bear, and later learned that it was a black bear and not a grizzly. Apparently the Tetons have a large population of cinnamon-colored black bears.

Parking & Trailhead Info For Delta Lake Wyoming

You’ll find a parking lot at the Lupine Meadows Trailhead. We arrived by 8:30 on a June morning and there were plenty of spots left. However, plan to arrive early as there are many popular trails here, so it definitely fills up.

There is a pit toilet at the trailhead as well.

Trail Overview

Starting off: The first part of the Delta Lake Wyoming trail is pretty easy, winding through forests and meadows with moderate elevation gain.

Switchbacks: As you continue on, the trail becomes steeper and features several switchbacks. You’ll be able to see views of the surrounding peaks and lakes as you complete the switchbacks, and this is the section where we saw the bear.

Off-Trail Segment: The trail continues on after the switchbacks, but you’ll actually follow a different trail that is a bit less defined. This section of the hike includes scrambling over boulders and a very steep final ascent to the lake.

Delta Lake, Wyoming: Upon reaching Delta Lake, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the emerald green water set against the backdrop of the rugged Teton range. My kids took the opportunity to do the polar bear plunge, but I simply put my feet in and that was enough for me. The water was frigid!

Tips for Hiking Delta Lake

• Fitness Level: The Delta Lake Wyoming hike is steep and strenuous, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers in good physical condition.
• Navigation: A map or GPS is helpful, especially since this trail goes off the main trail. I used the AllTrails+ app.
• Weather: Check the weather and make sure you start early if there are going to be warmer temperatures. Avoid hiking if there are thunderstorms in the forecast.
• Hiking Gear: Bring plenty of water and snacks. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots will be essential when crossing the boulders, and keeping you dry and stable if there is still snow on the trail. Dress in layers for warmth. Trekking poles can also be helpful for stability, especially if there is snow.
• Bear Safety: Grand Teton National Park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray, make noise, and be aware of your surroundings.
• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Pack out all trash and minimize your impact on the environment.

Where to Stay in Grand Teton

There are so many great places to stay in the Grand Teton National Park or even just outside it. There are several lodges in or just outside of the national park. These are my favorite:

• Jackson Lake Lodge – absolutely amazing views right on the lake; restaurants and shops on site; suites, cottages and hotel rooms available
• Signal Mountain Lodge – where we stayed; right on the lake; kitchenettes in room, beautiful views
• Headwaters Lodge & Cabins – conveniently located between Tetons and Yellowstone; on the Snake River
• Heart Six Ranch – a dude ranch experience located outside of the National Park, but gives you the true Wyoming Ranch experience

The city of Jackson also has several hotel options and is about a 30-minute drive to the Delta Lake Wyoming hiking trail. Some of my favorite hotel options in Jackson are:

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Jackson Hole
• The Lodge at Jackson Hole
• Rustic Inn Creekside

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