Last updated: May 16, 2022
Thing to Do
Hurricane Pass
NPS Photo/A. Falgoust
Take a hike down the South Fork of Cascade Canyon for some of the most spectacular views in the park. After starting at the Jenny Lake Trailhead, hikers may either walk around the southern end of the lake or take a shuttle boat across the lake to access Cascade Canyon. Hikers will then head down the relatively flat canyon, before taking a left at the forks of the canyon. From there begins a 5.3 mile uphill climb, passing Schoolroom Glacier, and ending at the 10,400 ft Hurricane Pass. Here, hikers have panoramic views of "Les Trois Tetons" (Grand, Middle, and South Teton), as well as an aerial view of Schoolroom Glacier. Stop by the Jenny Lake Ranger Station to speak with a backcountry ranger before heading out, as the pass can retain snow until mid-July.
Details
Duration
12-16 Hours
Hurricane Pass Via Shuttle Boat
Hurricane Pass is a very strenuous, 20 mi (32.2 km) RT out and back hike with 4,120 ft (1,260 m) of elevation gain.
If you are planning on using the shuttle boat, check their hours and prices. Tickets are purchased directly at the boat dock.
Hurricane Pass Via South Jenny Lake Loop Trail
Hurricane Pass is a very strenuous, 23.9 mi (38.5 km) RT out and back hike with 4,370 ft (1,330 m) of elevation gain.
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
A general fee is charged to enter Grand Teton National Park.
Location
Jenny Lake
To access trails, drive down the Teton Park Road and turn at South Jenny Lake. Jenny Lake is a popular area and parking fills in mid-summer. Arrive before 9am to guarantee a parking spot. Pull fully off the road if parking along the shoulder.
Reservations
No
Permits are required for those planning to stay overnight in the backcountry. Visit the backcountry page to learn about obtaining a permit.
Season
Summer, Fall
Hurricane Pass is best accessed in summer after the snow melts and in fall before the first snow arrives. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt Hurricane Pass unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
Hurricane Pass Via Shuttle Boat
Hurricane Pass is a very strenuous, 20 mi (32.2 km) RT out and back hike with 4,120 ft (1,260 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 9%.
Hurricane Pass Via South Jenny Lake Loop Trail
Hurricane Pass is a very strenuous, 23.9 mi (38.5 km) RT out and back hike with 4,370 ft (1,330 m) of elevation gain with an average slope of 9%.
The trail crosses several bridges. Trail obstacles include steps, exposed roots and rocks, narrow sections, and steep switchbacks.