After our long Paintbrush Canyon to Cascade Canyon Loop hike, we knew we needed a few slower days to recover. We spent them exploring the Jackson Lake Lodge, wandering through Teton Village, and enjoying a peaceful walk to Taggart Lake. Matt fished the Gros Ventre River while I happily read a couple of books. But there was one hike we’d heard about from fellow hikers that we just couldn’t skip. Delta Lake.
We set out early from the Lupine Meadows Trailhead, knowing parking would fill fast. The trail to Delta Lake is unofficial meaning it’s not maintained and requires some off-trail navigation and steep rock scrambling. We’d been warned, but we were excited. The first mile of trail was cool and shaded, an easy warm-up. As we began climbing, we were treated to stunning views of Taggart and Bradley Lakes behind us. Around mile three, we broke off the main trail and began the ascent toward Delta Lake.
The route was steep, with loose dirt, exposed roots, and fields of boulders. Matt navigated using his GPS, guiding us carefully up the rugged terrain. Eventually, we crested a ridge and there it was: a glacially fed turquoise lake cradled beneath the Grand Teton. The surreal color of the water comes from glacial silt, and for a short time, we had it nearly to ourselves. We found a spot on a rock, took in the view, snacked, and let the moment sink in. As more hikers began arriving, we packed up and decided we felt pretty good. Rather than return, we pushed farther up to Surprise Lake and Amphitheater Lake. The switchbacks felt endless, but the reward was more than worth it. Surprise Lake was a quiet, reflective spot nestled among boulders and trees, and just beyond it, Amphitheater Lake was tucked beneath towering granite cliffs, rimmed with wildflowers and subalpine forest.
I soaked my tired feet in the cold water while we shared snacks in the peaceful, alpine silence. Knowing this would be our final hike of the trip, I felt a wave of thankfulness for the time and the healthy to explore places like this.
The descent was quick; our pace surprised us after such a long day, and we passed several other hikers. In just a few hours, we were back at the trailhead. We clocked 11 miles and 3,400 feet of elevation gain. Matt had promised me pizza and I made sure he kept that promise. What an unforgettable day, and the perfect way to end an incredible trip.
Lake big hike of the trip – Delta Lake
Matt at Taggart Lake
The view from Jackson Lake Lodge
Moose and calf
Mama Moose
Campfire
On our way to Delta Lake looking back at Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake
Delta Lake
Amphitheater Lake