Paintbrush Canyon to Cascade Canyon Loop

The Paintbrush Canyon to Cascade Canyon Loop is widely regarded as the premier backcountry circuit in Grand Teton National Park, traversing two spectacular glacially carved canyons over Paintbrush Divide at nearly 10,700 feet. This challenging loop showcases the full grandeur of the Teton Range and rewards hikers with some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in North America.

The route typically begins at the String Lake Trailhead, ascending Paintbrush Canyon through wildflower meadows ablaze with Indian paintbrush, larkspur, and columbine in midsummer. The climb to Paintbrush Divide is relentless but offers increasingly spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Snowfields often linger on the north-facing slopes of the divide well into August. The descent into Cascade Canyon passes below the towering walls of Mount Owen and Teewinot Mountain before reaching Lake Solitude, one of the most beautiful subalpine lakes in the park. The lower section of Cascade Canyon follows a lush valley floor back to String Lake, passing through prime moose and black bear habitat. A backcountry camping permit is required for overnight trips and is highly competitive, with reservations opening online in mid-January. Day hikers occasionally complete the full loop but should plan for an extremely long and demanding day. The combination of elevation, distance, and terrain make this a route best suited to experienced and well-conditioned hikers.