Jenny Lake to Lake Solitude

Jenny Lake to Lake Solitude is a 30.4-mile out-and-back route through Paintbrush Canyon located within Grand Teton National Park. The hike begins and ends at the Jenny Lake Trailhead. It traverses around the shores of Jenny Lake and String Lake, and then heads into the Grand Teton backcountry, ascending up Paintbrush Canyon to reach Lake Solitude. This beautiful area offers stunning alpine scenery, colorful meadows, unique geology, and sparkling lakes. The Paintbrush Divide (10,700') is the highest point of this route, providing incredible panoramic views of the surrounding Teton Mountains, such as Mount Moran, Mount Woodring, Mount St. John, and Rockchuck Peak.This is a strenuous route that takes place at a high altitude with several steep sections of trail. From start to finish, the elevation ranges between 6,800 and 10,700 feet with an overall elevation gain of approximately 6,517 feet. It follows trails that are open to runners, hikers, and backpackers and is recommended as a 2-3 day backpacking trip (permit required, see below for details).DIRECTIONSStarting out flat, the route follows the Jenny Lake Loop Trail along the eastern shore of Jenny Lake. The trail circles east of String Lake, crosses an outlet, and heads towards Paintbrush Canyon. It ascends steeply through Paintbrush Canyon, passing numerous backcountry campsites, scenic vistas, and alpine lakes on the way. Around mile 11, you'll reach the Paintbrush Divide, and the high point of the route. After that, you'll continue along the trail to Lake Solitude. You'll find the turnaround point near the backcountry campsites south of the lake.Retrace your steps and descend through Paintbrush Canyon. After leaving the canyon, stay on the west side of String Lake and follow the String Lake Loop Trail to the Jenny Lake Loop Trail, which will take you around the west side of the lake until you return to the trailhead.ENTRANCE FEEGrand Teton National Park charges a fee to enter the park. Park passes can be purchased upon arrival or in advance. Discounts are available for qualifying individuals. For more information please visit https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/fees.htm. CAMPING AND PERMITSTeton National Park requires a permit for overnight camping in the backcountry. Permits can be obtained in advance online at www.recreation.gov, or at the park the day before. Permit availability can be seen online at recreation.gov. A limited number of permits are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Read through the information at https://www.nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/bcres.htm for more details. WHEN TO VISITSummer and fall are busy hiking seasons. During this time, parking lots tend to fill up quickly, so it is best to start your hike early.BICYCLES AND VEHICLESBicycles and vehicles are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry.PETSPets are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNPS - Grand Teton National Park