Grand Tetons Friends Hiking Expedition
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Autumn
LOCATION
Grand Tetons, WY
DATE
Sep 13, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Teton Crest Through Hike
Primary Objective: through hike
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~39 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: large mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 7000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Phillips Canyon Trailhead, WY to String Lake Trailhead, WY
- GPS coordinates: 43.5882, -110.8281 to 43.7903, -110.7310
- Permits: Obtain via Grand Teton National Park's online reservation system
---
DAY 1: Phillips Canyon Trailhead to Marion Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8.1 miles, +2000 ft
- Terrain description: Forested areas leading to alpine lake
- Notable features or side quests: Views of the Teton Range
- Key water sources: Water available at Marion Lake
- Campsite location: Marion Lake Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for moose in the area
- Trail tip: Early start recommended to enjoy the lake sunset
---
DAY 2: Marion Lake to Death Canyon Shelf
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Rocky paths with open views
- Notable features or side quests: Explore Fossil Mountain
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Death Canyon Shelf Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear country; follow proper food storage
- Trail tip: Stay hydrated; limited shade
---
DAY 3: Death Canyon Shelf to Alaska Basin
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +500 ft
- Terrain description: Expansive meadows and ascents
- Notable features or side quests: Sunset over the Tetons
- Key water sources: Basin lakes and streams
- Campsite location: Alaska Basin Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Frequent bear sightings
- Trail tip: Enjoy a leisurely pace through the meadows
---
DAY 4: Alaska Basin to South Fork Cascade Canyon
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +1000 ft
- Terrain description: Steep climb over Hurricane Pass
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Schoolroom Glacier
- Key water sources: Lakes and cascading streams
- Campsite location: South Fork Cascade Canyon Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep distance from wildlife
- Trail tip: Trek lightly over rocky sections
---
DAY 5: South Fork Cascade Canyon to North Fork Cascade Canyon
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.4 miles, +700 ft
- Terrain description: Forested trails with creek crossings
- Notable features or side quests: Option to detour to Lake Solitude
- Key water sources: Abundant creek crossings
- Campsite location: North Fork Cascade Canyon Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Trail can be wet; caution advised
- Trail tip: Early rise to catch morning wildlife
---
DAY 6: North Fork Cascade Canyon to String Lake Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 3.5 miles, +0 ft
- Terrain description: Gradual descent with panoramic views
- Notable features or side quests: Mountain reflections in lakes
- Key water sources: None, fill up prior
- Campsite location: None (day hike out)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay alert for changing weather conditions
- Trail tip: Great spot for a final group photo at String Lake
---
CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Marion Lake (9000 ft), Death Canyon Shelf (9700 ft), Alaska Basin (9500 ft), South Fork Cascade Canyon (9300 ft), North Fork Cascade Canyon (9000 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check local guidelines
- Bear safety and food storage: Bear-proof canisters required
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Alaska Basin, Hurricane Pass
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderately busy
- Nearest water source: Vary by camp, check maps
---
WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 30-60°F in September
- Sun exposure: High UV at altitude
- Acclimatization tips: Gradual ascent days to adapt
---
GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Use trekking poles for stability; choose layers for diverse temperatures.
---
OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Hike to Lake Solitude
- Photo-worthy moments: Hurricane Pass vista
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Dinner in Jackson, WY
---
FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 5-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise early for cooler temperatures
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 35-45 lbs
---
Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
