Jenny Lake | Jackson Hole

Jenny Lake is a natural freshwater lake situated in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA.

It is a glacial lake formed by the movement of glaciers during the last ice age.

Visual Characteristics

The lake's surface is approximately 1,151 acres. Water color ranges from deep blue to turquoise depending on light conditions and depth. The shoreline is primarily composed of granite and sand. Surrounding vegetation includes lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and various subalpine wildflowers. The Teton Range forms a prominent backdrop to the west.

Location & Access Logistics

Jenny Lake is located within Grand Teton National Park, approximately 15 miles north of Jackson, Wyoming. Access is via Teton Park Road. The Jenny Lake Scenic Drive provides access to parking areas. Parking is available at the South Jenny Lake Day Use Area and the West Jenny Lake Day Use Area. These lots can fill quickly during peak season. Public transport is not available directly to the lake; visitors typically use personal vehicles or park shuttles operating within the park during summer months.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Jenny Lake was carved by glacial activity. The Teton Range itself is a fault-block mountain range, with the eastern face rising abruptly from the valley floor. The lake's formation is a direct result of the erosive power of glaciers that once covered the area.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boat shuttle service operates across the lake, facilitating access to hiking trails. Hiking trails include the Jenny Lake Trail (loop around the lake), Hidden Falls Trail, and Inspiration Point Trail. Kayaking and paddleboarding are permitted on the lake. Fishing is allowed with a valid Wyoming fishing license.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the South Jenny Lake and West Jenny Lake visitor areas. Shade is provided by surrounding trees. Cell phone signal is intermittent and generally unreliable within the immediate vicinity of the lake. Food vendors are not present at the lake itself, but facilities are available at nearby visitor centers and lodges.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun on the Teton Range. The best months for visiting are July and August, offering the warmest weather and full accessibility to trails. The lake is generally ice-free from late May or early June through October, depending on winter snowfall. High tide is not a relevant factor for this freshwater lake.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests the lake is named after a Shoshone woman named Jenny, who was said to have died of a broken heart after her lover was killed in battle. While romantic, historical records indicate the lake was likely named by surveyors in the late 19th century, possibly after a woman named Jenny who was associated with the area.

Nearby Landmarks

• Grand Teton National Park Visitor Center (0.8km South)
• Moose Junction (5km South)
• String Lake (1.5km North)
• Leigh Lake (2.5km North)
• Oxbow Bend (8km Northeast)