Blacktail Butte

This trail offers unique and impressive perspectives of the Grand Teton Range, Gros Ventre Range, and the entire Jackson Hole valley. Its isolated position provides distinct viewpoints not found on other trails, particularly towards the Gros Ventre River and Range. It's also often less crowded than other trails in Grand Teton National Park.

The trail traverses diverse landscapes, including beautiful wildflowers, sagebrush meadows, and dense woodlands of lodgepole pine and aspen. You'll experience a mix of open slopes and forested ridges. As you ascend, the path can become rocky with scree in some sections, and some parts involve aggressive climbing up steep draws without switchbacks. Be prepared for uneven terrain.

Yes, the primary highlight is the Blacktail Butte summit itself, which offers stunning panoramic views. The southern end of the butte provides fantastic vistas of the Gros Ventre Wilderness and River to the east, and the town of Jackson to the south. Throughout the hike, you'll find numerous opportunities to enjoy panoramas through tree breaks and from open meadows.

The area is known for abundant wildlife. You might spot elk, moose, mule deer, bison, bighorn sheep, wolves, and bears. It's crucial to carry bear spray and know how to use it, as bear encounters are possible.

The Blacktail Butte trail is primarily an out-and-back route, approximately 7.3 miles (11.3 km) long with about 1,500 feet (450 meters) of elevation gain. However, a looped option is also possible, which typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete.

The trail is ideal for hiking from May to October. However, it also offers year-round appeal; it can be snowshoed in winter for spectacular views of the snow-covered landscape, and some sections are suitable for intermediate to advanced cross-country skiing.

The Blacktail Butte trail is located in Grand Teton National Park near Gros Ventre. Specific trailhead parking information can vary, but generally, there are designated parking areas within the park for trail access. Given that this trail is often less crowded, parking may be more readily available compared to more popular park destinations.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on hiking trails within Grand Teton National Park, including Blacktail Butte. Pets are typically allowed only on paved roads, in developed areas, and within 30 feet of a road. Always check current park regulations before bringing your pet.

Yes, Blacktail Butte is located within Grand Teton National Park, so an entrance fee is required to access the park. This fee covers all occupants of a single vehicle for seven days. You can purchase passes at park entrance stations or online via recreation.gov. No separate hiking permits are typically needed for day hikes on established trails.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the North 89 Pathway and the GTNP Pathways. These intersections can offer options for extending or connecting your hike with other areas of the park.

The Blacktail Butte trail is generally graded as moderate to intermediate. While it offers rewarding views, some sections are described as steep and challenging with aggressive climbing and uneven terrain. Beginners or families with very young children might find it strenuous. It's best suited for hikers with some experience and good physical condition.