First Tetons trip: is this 5-day backpacking route “good enough” to fully experience the Tetons?
Hey everyone,
I just bought my permits for my first trip to Grand Teton National Park this July I’ve put together a 5-day backpacking route. This might honestly be my only time visiting the Tetons, so I’m trying to make sure I’m not missing too much of the experience.
Backpacking Plan (July 9–13):
• Night 1: Granite Canyon / Mt. Hunt area
• Night 2: Alaska Basin (USFS side)
• Night 3: Alaska Basin (explore / reposition day)
• Night 4: Phelps Lake campsite
• Day 5: Hike out (July 13)
(I also attached my routes with mileage and elevation)
From what I understand, this route hits places like Alaska Basin and possibly Death Canyon Shelf, which seem amazing but a bit more “off the beaten path” compared to the classic routes.
My main concern:
I know this route skips Cascade Canyon, Paintbrush Divide, and Lake Solitude, which seem like the iconic Tetons highlights. Since this is probably my only visit, I’m wondering:
Is this still a “full” Tetons experience, or will I feel like I missed the best parts?
Plan after backpacking:
The day after we hike out, I’m planning to spend time around Jenny Lake, possibly taking the boat across and hiking into Cascade Canyon for a day hike to at least see that area.
Questions:
1. How practical/logical is this backpacking route overall? Any red flags?
2. Is Alaska Basin + this loop “good enough” for a first/only Tetons trip?
3. Does adding a Jenny Lake / Cascade Canyon day make up for missing the core loop?
I’d really appreciate any feedback — just trying to make this a no-regrets trip.
Thanks!