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A rolling hike providing great views of the mountains and a high probability of wildlife sightings.


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Map Key

10.2

Miles

16.5

KM

Loop

7,300' 2,225 m

High

6,815' 2,077 m

Low

714' 217 m

Up

708' 216 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

24%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly This hike is a little harder than Two Ocean Lake, but if your kids are up for a challenge, they'll love the solitude and possibility for wildlife sightings.

Overview

Circle Emma Matilda Lake on this shoreline-hugging trail as it takes you to some of the best Teton Range vistas in the park.

Description

This trail and lake are named after the wife of William O. Owen who was among the first four climbers to ascend to the summit of Grand Teton in 1898. The natural lake is 2.7 miles long and can be reached by way of a 1 mile route from a parking area at Two Ocean Lake or via a slightly longer trek from Jackson Lake Lodge.

The northern shore of Emma Matilda Lake winds uphill for a half-mile from the parking area to a large meadow favored by mule deer. The trail continues along the north shore of the lake through a dense pine forest sitting 400 ft. above water level before dropping down to an overlook where you'll enjoy awe inspiring views of the Tetons, Jackson Lake, and Christian Pond. The trail along the southern shore travels through another densely populated forest filled with spruce and fir trees.

Flora & Fauna

The aquatic habitats along the lake and its adjacent forests, marshes and meadows fulfill the needs of many forms of wildlife. Diverse and abundant vegetation offers excellent food and cover. Look for moose, river otters, beavers, muskrats, coyotes and mule deer.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 6 votes

#7

in Central

#4743

Overall
  3.5 from 6 votes
5 Star
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50%
3 Star
17%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
17%
Recommended Route Rankings

#7

in Central

#81

in Wyoming

#4,743

Overall
7 Views Last Month
1,292 Since Jan 29, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Hiking the Emma Matilda Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park, June 2018.
Dec 16, 2018 near Colter…, WY
Jackson Lake and Grand Teton
Oct 24, 2020 near Colter…, WY
Emma Matilda Lake from its southern shore.
Oct 24, 2020 near Colter…, WY
Hiking the Emma Matilda Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park, June 2018.
Dec 16, 2018 near Colter…, WY
Hiking the Emma Matilda Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park, June 2018.
Dec 16, 2018 near Colter…, WY
The eastern half of Emma Matilda Lake.
Oct 24, 2020 near Colter…, WY

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