Skip to main content

Jenny Lake

Boat Ramps
1
Access Points
1
Campsites
18

Jenny Lake, located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, offers paddlers a scenic mountain experience on nearly two square miles of pristine water. The lake is divided into North and South zones, with the South area providing more amenities including a visitor center, ranger station, campground, and docks.

Paddlers can launch from the Jenny Lake Boat Launch at the south end of the lake. Canoe and kayak rentals are available from Jenny Lake Boating for $35 per hour or $140 per day, offered on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-June through mid-September. All motorized and non-motorized boats require a permit, which can be purchased at visitor centers.

The best time for paddling is during summer months, with mornings typically offering calmer waters. Wind tends to pick up in the afternoons, and weather can change rapidly, so paddlers should be prepared for varying conditions. The lake is 256 feet deep at its deepest point and reflects the surrounding Teton Range, providing stunning views of peaks like Teewinot Mountain and Mount St. John.

A popular paddling route is the 1.5-mile journey from the south shore to the west shore boat dock, which serves as a trailhead for Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. This trip takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on conditions and paddler experience.

Wildlife sightings may include moose, bear, and otters. Paddlers should maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and be aware of bear safety protocols. The lake's glassy waters offer excellent opportunities for viewing the diverse ecosystem of the Snake River watershed.

Facilities at Jenny Lake include a general store and the Jenny Lake Lodge. The area has significant cultural history, with the lake named after a Shoshone woman who assisted in a 19th-century expedition. Paddlers should note that the Teton Park Road, which provides access to Jenny Lake, is closed from November to May.


Water access, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Jenny Lake. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Paddle smarter with real-time insights

Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.

Recreational permits for Jenny Lake

What you need to float or boat Jenny Lake, and when to apply.

Grand Teton boat permit

Boater pass · All boaters · Required year-round

Every watercraft on Grand Teton's lakes and the Snake River needs a park boat permit, $25 non-motorized and $75 motorized.

Checked Nov 4, 2026 with Grand Teton National Park

Find Places to Paddle

Over 400,000 Places to Paddle

Every user gets free access to launch points, boat ramps, and public property parcels.

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to paddle Jenny Lake and check the forecast before you go.

No forecast data available.


Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.

Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.