Imagine a hike that has incandescent lakes 💙, stunning mountain views, and is perfect for the whole family. If that sounds ideal to you, then get ready to embark on the Bradley and Taggart Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park.
If you only have time for one hike in the park then I highly recommend this one! ⭐️⭐️ It’s got everything you could possibly want including the chance to see wildlife. So, add this trail to your Grand Teton itinerary.
Having had the pleasure of doing this hike twice- once amid the summer’s heat and again on a trail blanketed in snow- I can attest to its charm. The first visit included exhilarating lake swims, while the second had a surprise moose encounter 😲! Both experiences were extraordinary and left me yearning for a repeat. It’s the ultimate day hike in the Grand Tetons!
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Table of Contents
Bradley & Taggart Lake Trail Guide
Below, you’ll discover my comprehensive guide, covering everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience on the Bradley and Taggart Lake Trail. This detailed resource outlines the best time take on this adventure, essential items to pack 🥾 for a seamless hike, and crucial information about the trail’s unique features.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the most of your journey. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tetons and conquer this amazing trail!
Quick Hike Info
Distance: 3-8.8 miles
Elevation: 350-760 feet of gain
Type: Out and Back or Loop
Length: 1.5-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Bradley & Taggart Lake Loop Location
Bradley & Taggart Lakes are conveniently located right off of the Teton Park Road in Grand Teton National Park.
Nestled in the Northwestern corner of Wyoming, this park stands out as one of the most breathtaking places 🤩 in the country. The austere mountains rise majestically above you, creating an awe-inspiring sight. Fortunately, this trail offers abundant views of these iconic peaks, along with the added allure of two vibrant glacially carved lakes.
How to Get to the Trail
The most convenient way to explore the Tetons is by car as the park does not provide any shuttles. The Tetons are approximately a 4 hour drive from Bozeman’s Airport ✈️, a 4.5 hour drive from Salt Lake City’s airport, or just a 30 minute drive from Jackson Hole. However, travel costs are typically higher to Jackson Hole.
It’s very easy to find this trail if you are already exploring the Tetons. From Jackson, it’s a brief and picturesque 25 minute drive 🚗.
Head North on US 191 North past the Grand Teton park sign. Continue on the road until you reach the turn for Teton Park Road. Turn left and drive for 2.5 miles until you see the Taggart Lake sign on your left .
Best Time to Hike Taggart and Bradley Lake Loop
Luckily, Taggart & Bradley Lakes offers a year round hiking experience. The Teton Park road closes seasonally 🚧 just after the trailhead, ensuring continuous access to this scenic path.
The best time of year to hike the trail depends on your preferences.
Summer is ideal because the trail is snow-free, allowing for a refreshing swim, however, it also gets fairly crowded. Conversely, spring and fall are less crowded, but you spikes or traction devices may be required with snowy conditions ❄️. Winter is a fantastic time to go snowshoeing, making it a great time for winter trail enthusiasts!
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Things to Know Before You Go
💵 Grand Teton National park has a $35 entrance fee per personal vehicle. It covers 7 days, but you can also use the America the Beautiful Pass if you have it.
🚗 There is parking at Taggart Lake Trailhead. In the peak seasons, it fills up and you may have to park further on the road or in a different lot. So, go early to claim a spot!
☀️ Weather changes quickly up in the mountains, so make sure that you are prepared with layers and proper gear.
⛺️ There are multiple campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park. They are only open seasonally and you’ll have to make reservations in advance on Recreation.gov. There is also free dispersed camping in Bridger Teton National Forest.
🐻 There are grizzly bears and moose in the Tetons! So, pack bear spray and if you see any animals on the trail keep a safe distance away.
🦮 Pets are not allowed on trails in Grand Teton National Park. So, you won’t be able to take them on this hike.
⚠️ Teton Park Road closes from the Taggart Lake Trailhead to the North from November 1 through April 30. So, you can access the trail from Jackson Hole, but you cannot go past it.
🍃 Remember to follow the Leave No Trace Principles. As always, you want to leave nature looking better than you found it.
Packing Guide for Taggart & Bradley Lakes
When gearing up for a mountainous hike, remember that weather conditions change rapidly 🌨. So, pack waterproof layers and prepare for a variety of temperatures.
This hike boasts two stunning lakes that are popular swimming destinations. So, don’t forget your swimsuit 👙 if you go in the summer! Below you’ll find a packing list for your excursion.
🎒Packing Guide for Bradley & Taggart Lake Loop
- Comfortable Hiking Boots
- Microspikes (if there is snow on the trail)
- Day Pack
- Hiking poles
- Water Reservoir
- 1-2 Liters of Water
- Snacks and Food
- First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Bear Spray
- Swimsuit (If you’re going in the summer)
- Towel (for the summer)
- Headlamp
- Rain jacket
- Light winter jacket
- Satellite phone
- Downloaded AllTrails Map
Bradley & Taggart Lake Trail Description
If you’re considering hiking the Bradley and Taggart Lake Trail, take a minute to read the detailed trail description below. This way, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect on this beautiful and family-friendly day hike!
Bradley Lake
The trail commences with a stretch along a flat, straight path. Proceed for a little over a quarter of 0.2 miles, then make a right turn onto the trail. As you cross the bridge, the sound of rushing water 💧 will accompany your steps.
Past the bridge, you’ll encounter horses on the right as you keep walking. Continuing straight, you’ll pass through an open valley with picturesque mountain views 🏔. If your destination is Taggart Lake, take a left to traverse a forested area.
For hikers aiming to reach Bradley Lake, maintain your course. The trail ascends, with the majority of the elevation gain leading to this striking blue lake. Ascend over the hill, where you’ll catch glimpses of Taggart Lake 👀 on your left.
After slightly over 2 miles into the trail, you’ll reach Bradley Lakes. Take a break here for lunch 🥪, a snack, or even a refreshing dip in the water. Then, follow the winding trail towards Taggart Lake.
On to Taggart Lake
f your destination is Taggart Lake, you’ll traverse a forested area 🌳. As the forest opens up, you’ll be greeted by the stunning shores of the lake. This brilliant body of water boasts a seafoam turquoise hue, with the Tetons towering directly above.
Taggart Lake is another fantastic spot for an invigorating lake dip 💦 or to relax along the shoreline and take in the breathtaking views.
For hikers who ventured to Bradley Lake, the journey involves a hilly walk until you reach the lake shores on your right.
Once at the lake, you have the option to either return via the direct path or continue on the counter-clockwise loop to reach the parking area 🅿️. This section of the trail is flat and easy, providing a delightful conclusion to your hike!
Final Tips for Hiking the Taggart and Bradley Lake Loop
Although this trail is family-friendly, do not take it on lightly. Remember that Grand Teton National Park sits at an elevation over 6000 feet. Therefore, consider waiting a couple days before embarking on the Bradley and Taggart Lake trail 🙌🏻. But once you do, it will certainly be a memorable hike!
Let me know in the comments if you enjoyed this trail guide
📍 Pin A Fantastic Grand Teton Hike: Bradley and Taggart Lake Trail Guide to Pinterest
Such a thorough yet easy to skim guide on this hike! The pics make me want to go 😍🌄🌄
Thanks Kristen! It’s a fantastic hike