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A low angle, straightforward hike to Lake Solitude turned difficult if headed to Paintbrush Divide.


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Map Key

4.9

Miles

7.9

KM

Point to Point

10,626' 3,239 m

High

7,857' 2,395 m

Low

2,775' 846 m

Up

6' 2 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (6°)

42%

Max Grade (23°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Description

From the intersection with Cascade Canyon Trail and South Fork Cascade Canyon, follow Cascade Creek north and look for signs indicating North Fork Cascade Canyon.

The first half of this trail, all the way to Lake Solitude, is quite easy. It features low angle, very straightforward hiking, except for a few spots where you'll be crossing large talus fields. Finally, after dipping in and out of the woods multiple times, the terrain will open-up to views across Lake Solitude. Once here, be sure to take in the views of the Cathedral Group - Teewinot Mountain (12,330'), Mount Owen (12,928') and Grand Teton (13,775').

Take a deep breath... Lake Solitude is at 9,035', and North Fork Cascade Canyon trail only goes up from here.

From Lake Solitude, continue on North Fork Cascade Canyon and follow the trail as it bends to the east, then southeast. Other than a few stands here and there, you're now above treeline. Enjoy the spectacular views.

North Fork Cascade Canyon winds its way up this steep section on loose scree, so keep your balance! After the fourth switchback, the trail heads straight up and reaching Paintbrush Divide (10,720') and Paintbrush Canyon trail.

Flora & Fauna

If you're quiet, you might see a moose. You're guaranteed, however, to see a Pika - those suckers are loud!

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson with improvements by Tilman Giese

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 4 votes

#12

in West

#699

Overall
  5.0 from 4 votes
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Trail Rankings

#12

in West

#33

in Wyoming

#699

Overall
15 Views Last Month
4,301 Since Dec 19, 2014
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Photos

The Teton Peaks
Mar 30, 2020 near Alta, WY
Grand Teton as seen from a meadow on North Fork Cascade Canyon trail.
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Image by the National Park Service (NPS).
Dec 23, 2014 near Moose W…, WY
The hike back down from Lake Solitude has spectacular views of the Cathedral Group.
Aug 20, 2018 near Alta, WY
Hiker and Mica Lake along trail descending from Paintbrush Divide.
Feb 7, 2016 near Moose W…, WY
The view as you are hiking down to the start after leaving Lake Solitude.
Jul 27, 2020 near Alta, WY
This trail is absolutely beaultiful. Views like this from mile 2.2 (if you take the boat ferry) on!
Jul 27, 2020 near Alta, WY

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