Grand Teton National Park: Lower Saddle via Garnet Canyon Trail
The standard approach for GT climbers, this 6-mile, 5,000-foot trek to the Lower Saddle yields divine views.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
INFO For information on permits, current trail and camp conditions, and wilderness guidelines, go to nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/things2know.htm.
PERMIT A wilderness permit is required for all overnight camping in the backcountry. Reservations accepted ($20 administrative fee for permits during peak season). nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/back.htm
CONTACT Grand Teton National Park, (307) 739-3300; nps.gov/grte/
Trail Facts
- Distance: 19.2
Waypoints
GCT001
Location: 43.734608, -110.741673
Head S through forest, watching for elk; trail turns W and uphill
GCT002
Location: 43.726173, -110.756779
R at 3-way; forest opens as trail switchbacks gently up ridge
GCT003
Location: 43.726251, -110.76519
L at 3-way at top of switchbacks; side trail leads R to Amphitheater Lake, a worthy 30-min. (each way) detour if you’re camping in Garnet
GCT004
Location: 43.723196, -110.770082
Sudden killer views of Middle Teton and Nez Perce rising above steep-walled canyon
GCT005
Location: 43.726111, -110.789995
Good lunch/layering spot before windy section; beware snack-grabbing marmots; to find lower campsites, stay in valley bottom
GCT006
Location: 43.726863, -110.792495
Rest stop and reliable water a third of the way up steepest section
GCT007
Location: 43.731213, -110.797707
Jackson Hole Mtn. Guides camp; say hey, follow cairns W across boulders towards Lower Saddle
GCT008
Location: 43.734608, -110.806217
Head of lateral moraine; Middle Teton Glacier to L; stay R, use fixed rope to ascend cliff band
GCT009
Location: 43.732996, -110.809522
Lower Saddle (11,692 ft.): Sterling views of jagged peaks; summit requires ropes/rock-climbing expertise; retrace steps to car