![]() The resulting trail damage now poses safety hazards to hikers who often lose their route along the trail and end up in dangerous situations in the steep, loose terrain. The eastern slope is comprised of scree (a general term for a loose rock field) and over time, water flow from melting snow and yearly visitor use has eroded and shifted the trail. Paintbrush Divide is the highest point along the Teton Crest Trail at 10,700 feet in elevation. Many parts of the trail were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps dating back to 1934 but, due to its remote location, much of the trail has remained largely untouched by park maintenance crews since original construction took place. The Teton Crest Trail is a 45-mile long trail through the high country of the Teton Range. In partnership with Grand Teton, the Foundation is continuing to fund work along this iconic trail, improving sections that have fallen into disrepair. However each hike is so stunning that they warrant doing on separate days.As trail work near Hurricane Pass comes to a close, restoration efforts at another site along the Teton Crest Trail-Paintbrush Divide-is in full swing. Saw three black bears, three moose, pine martens, deer and tons of pikas. The Cascade Canyon part of the trail was very busy and not very scenery apart from the part closest to Inspiration Point. However, one option is to combine this hike with Cascade Canyon by descending to Solitude Lake, then taking the trail to Jenny Lake. The hike across the Paintbrush Divide from Holly Lake to Lake Solitude is as good as it gets with incredible views. Return the way you came and be careful on the scree slope. You will also be able to see a glimpse of Mount Owen and Grand Teton at the far end of the valley. Descending less than 100 m, look down to the right to find the larger Lake Solitude, and above it – below a cirque – the green Mica Lake. You can continue down part of the way towards Solitude Lake and get a view down the North Fork of Cascade Canyon. Looking down and to the left you can see the tiny, teal Grizzly Bear Lake, and the start of yet another canyon. Woodring will become apparent, as will the true expanse of the Teton Range, including the menacing face of “The Jaw” back the way you came. Upon arriving at the wide, gentle plateau that is Paintbrush Divide you will be readily rewarded with stunning views down Paintbrush Canyon. Because this is a north facing aspect expect snow early in the season, and come prepared with ice axe and crampons. The trail, however, is quite well managed and switchbacks up nicely. The last 2.5 km of the ascent to Paintbrush Divide is through a large screen slope. Grizzly and brown bears frequent the area past Holly Lake, so bring bear spray, hike in a group, and make some noise. Past Holly Lake you will be fully in the alpine, with unbelievable views of the jagged Teton Ridges that line your vision. Woodring in Holly Lake, however, is easily worth it. This deviation does not add extra distance to your hike, it only makes part of the trail a little steeper. The only deviation in the trail up to Paintbrush Divide is the small fork that leads to Holly Lake, which rejoins the main trail after less than 2.0 km. Ask any of them if you need motivation, and they will rave about the views from Paintbrush Divide. Odds are you will pass backpackers finishing the Teton Crest Trail. We saw several berry pickers out, grabbing wild huckleberries.įor approximately the first 7.0 km of the hike, you’ll climb through the forest with few views except the wealth of lush forest around you. The trail starts the climb through the forest, keeping you cool as you go. Now you are on the main trail up Paintbrush Canyon, and have no more major intersections to worry about. Again follow the signs for Paintbrush Divide and turn right. called US Topo that are separated into rectangular quadrants that are printed at 22.75'x29' or larger. The signs will point towards Paintbrush Canyon and Paintbrush Divide, and each intersection is well marked.Īfter crossing the bridge climb gently around the lake until you reach another junction. Geological Survey) publishes a set of the most commonly used topographic maps of the U.S. The snow slope leading to Paintbrush Divide: those ahead So, after affixing crampons we followed the steps of the other two climbers up and across the 500-foot snow slope. You will continue around the water, crossing a wide wooden bridge over the stream that connects Leigh Lake to String Lake. Regardless of where you park, head towards the lake and turn right. ![]() Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
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