Today we started out by heading to Moose Junction, which is about 20 miles south of Colter Bay. Judy needs to pick up her mail at the US post office there, and we will go to Jenny Lake after that. On the way down there we stop several times for “photo ops” and even a geocacher or two. There are many virtual caches in the park as the NPS does not allow physical caches.
Peter likes to ride in the truck with Gene and Judy and so it’s just me, Sharon, and Kyle in the Escape. So far the Escape has done very well on this trip. Gas is a bit spendy up here, about $2.50 a gallon in the park.
When we arrive at Jenny Lake it is fairly busy. Most of the Grand Teton guides books have this destination listed as a “must see” when you are visiting. I check my GPS and discover there is a cache at Inspiration Point on the other side of the lake. It is a mile hike, uphill. But the trick is getting to the other side of the lake. You can either hike the 2.5 miles or you can take the shuttle boat over. We opt to take the shuttle to save time and to get out on the lake.
Jenny Lake is located almost right next to the Teton range but is much smaller than Jackson Lake where we are staying, but it is a true jewel. It reminds us of a small Tahoe without all the development, as it is crystal clear, at very high elevation and the landscape is similar sub alpine and very rocky.
The trip across the lake is about 10 minutes and we chat with the driver to get some background. After he drops us off we head up to Hidden Falls, the first destination. The weather is perfect, just warm enough for a short hike. As we proceed, my camera is out and I am gobbling memory up fast with all the photos. Seems like every turn has a new scene! A roaring, narrow river is just off the trail, no doubt coming from the many snowpacks and glaciers above us.
The falls are impressive and just off the trail about 75 feet. Not very hidden at all! Many people are at the view site taking pics and looking like they never walk uphill for a half mile! After a brief rest for the boys, we head on up to Inspiration Point, another half mile of steep gain. The effort is very rewarding, with a wonderful 180 degree view of the lake (check out the photos). We spent a bit of time there just taking things in and getting inspired.
Wow I can’t believe we have only one more full day here – there is just so much to do!
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