My first stop in Wyoming was the town of Jackson, which lies in the valley of Teton County. This beautiful town is a major tourist hub for people visiting Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. It is also surrounded by several popular ski resorts. After stopping for dinner, we headed over to Gros Ventre Campground for the night. A couple I met in Idaho had stayed there recently and recommended it to me.
The next morning, we headed to Phelps Lake. I found out about the lake online while searching for things to do in the area. It was only about a 30 minute drive to the trailhead from our campsite. After parking at the trailhead, I filled up my water bottle, threw a couple snacks in my backpack and started the hike. It’s about 4 miles round trip, but it gets a little steep at some points. The trail winds through a beautiful stretch of woods and provides some breathtaking views.
A little further down the trail you’ll begin passing a series of backcountry campsites, and at just over 3 miles, will reach the northern shore of Phelps Lake where you’ll find a small sandy beach.