Encompassing more than 300,000 acres, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming protects the picturesque Tetons, the youngest range in the Rocky Mountain chain. The 9-million-year-old mountains, still infants by geologic standards, contain gneiss and granite rocks that were formed 2.5 billion years ago and are among the oldest in North America. A strenuous day hike to Lake Solitude culminates in jaw-dropping views of the 13,770-foot Grand Teton.
Getting There
The strenuous 19-mile round-trip to Lake Solitude in Grand Teton National Park ascends 3,375 feet. You'll follow the north fork of the Cascade Canyon trial to 9,035 feet, where sweeping views of Mt. Owen, Teewinot and the Grand Teton may just knock you off your feet. You can trim about two hours (four miles) off your hike by catching the boat shuttle across Jenny Lake. Plan on eight to 10 hours to complete the journey, and an extra hour or two to re-energize by the lake.
Flora and Fauna
Moose, elk, bison, deer, coyotes, pronghorn antelope and bear live in Grand Teton National Park. You're not likely to spot a mountain lion, grizzly or wolf, though they may see you. Trumpeter swans live on the lakes year-round, and bald eagles soar overhead. Lodgepole pine and quaking aspens compete for space on the lower mountainsides, while silvery-green sagebrush covers the valley floor. In June and July, Indian paintbrush, lupine, arnica and blue camas bloom into a riot of color.
Preparation
Avoid cotton clothes and opt instead for materials like moisture-wicking polyester-based fabrics, silk or nylon. Long pants will protect your legs from the brush and keep you warmer at the higher elevations. Carry an extra pair of wool socks in your pack, plus fleece or wool layers for changing temperatures, which can fluctuate 40 degrees. If you have room, take along a pair of sport sandals for rest breaks to give your feet and boots a chance to air out. You'll also want rain gear, because the weather in the mountains can change in an instant. You'll need to carry at least 120 ounces of water, or a filter or iodine tablets if you plan to refill from streams or lakes along the way. It's also a good idea to stow some powdered electrolytes in your pack in case you become weak or dehydrated on the trail. You won't find any services once you leave Jenny Lake, so carry enough food and high-energy snacks like nuts, raisins and protein bars to last all day. It's always a good idea to bring along more than you think you'll need.
Practical Considerations
Check with park rangers before you set out to get the latest information on trail conditions. Always let someone know where you're going and the time you expect to return. Depart from the trailhead early, no later than 8 a.m. to give yourself plenty of time to hike back out before dark, which doesn't happen until close to 10 p.m. in mid-summer. You'll have to pay a fee to enter Grand Teton National Park: $25 per vehicle for a seven-day pass in 2010.
Precautions
Pace yourself, especially in the thin air at higher elevations, and be sure to apply sunscreen frequently throughout the day, even if it's cloudy. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the high-altitude sun. Make noise by singing, talking loudly or clapping your hands to let bears and other animals know you're in the area---most attacks occur when a person surprises an animal. If you do come across wildlife, try to keep 300 feet between you and the animals. Though cell phone service is spotty in the park, more than one mountain rescue has occurred after a lost or injured visitor called 911 from a cell phone. You might want to bring yours just in case, but don't turn it on unless you really need it.
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