While autumn in Wyoming is, in some ways, all too short, thanks to our state’s geographical diversity, fall colors in the Cowboy State can be found all season…so long as you know where to look! Grand Teton National Park is easily one of our state’s most magical destinations year-round, but with summer long-faded, the sights somehow get even more spectacular. As autumn sweeps through the Grand Tetons, a symphony of colors emerges, painting the landscape in shades of gold, crimson, and amber. Among the park’s hidden treasures is Paintbrush Canyon, a trail that winds through this natural masterpiece, and yet is surprisingly overlooked in Wyoming’s colder months. This hike is a breathtaking journey, offering not only a kaleidoscope of fall foliage but also stunning vistas, pristine lakes, and an invigorating sense of wilderness. Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to be enchanted as we embark on this unforgettable seasonal adventure.
The Paintbrush Canyon Trail is a moderate to strenuous 12-mile loop that showcases the splendor of the Teton Range. It's one of the state's most beloved hikes, and if you haven't taken the journey yet, fall is a magical time to do so.
Starting at String Lake, the Paintbrush Canyon trail ascends through pristine forests and alpine meadows, culminating in an exhilarating descent into Cascade Canyon before circling back. This loop provides hikers with a diverse range of landscapes, from serene lakeside strolls to challenging mountain climbs.
Another option would be to park at Jenny Lake and utilize the boat ride across the water to save some time and energy, or park at the Leigh Lake Trailhead and hike next to String Lake for the first portion of the trail.
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But first, an important note: while the Paintbrush Canyon trail is accessible to many hikers with a moderate level of fitness (and some endurance!), it's important to be prepared for Wyoming's unpredictable mountain weather.
Layers of clothing, sturdy footwear, and adequate hydration are essential. Due to its elevation (nearly 11,000 feet), the trail may have dustings of snow even in the early fall, so hikers should be cautious and check for trail conditions before setting out. It's also advised to carry bear spray, as this area is known to be grizzly bear habitat.
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You'll start by journeying through the lower part of Paintbrush Canyon, which is beautifully shaded. This portion of the hike is relatively flat and easy, but as soon as you're through the pine trees, the climb begins!
As you ascend the trail, the forest canopy shifts from vibrant green foliage in late summer to an absolutely dazzling array of reds, oranges, and yellows as you climb in altitude. The quaking aspen trees, with their heart-shaped leaves, steal the show, creating a shimmering curtain of gold. Richly hued towering pines and deep green firs offer a dramatic and soothing contrast against this natural canvas.
Along the way, you'll cross a number of trail footbridges and sharp switchbacks, as well as encounter a great deal of rough, rocky terrain throughout the whopping over 4,000-foot elevation gain. You'll also encounter a pretty massive scree field, so trekking poles are a good idea.
The trail is a grueling one, not to mention dangerous. We definitely don't recommend this hike for novices and certainly not for casual or spontaneous hikers. Fortunately, Paintbrush Canyon is popular in summer, which means the path is clear and relatively easy to follow in fall.
If autumn weather conditions allow you to hike all the way to Paintbrush Divide, after crossing a stark, exposed portion of the mountainside, you'll also get to experience sweeping views of the canyon from above, as well as panoramic views of Mount Moran, Mount Woodring, and Rockchuck Peak.
Paintbrush Divide is the high point of the hike, and at an elevation of 10,700 feet, you'll feel like you're on top of the world. The rugged peaks stretch as far as the eye can see, and the alpine tundra that is typically awash with vibrant wildflowers in the warmer months is a sea of fall color.
Other notable sights along the hike through Paintbrush Canyon include Holly Lake, a pristine alpine gem nestled amid rocky crags about five miles into the hike. The deep blue waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a postcard-worthy scene. Take a moment to rest here and savor the tranquility.
Descending from Paintbrush Divide, assuming you can reach the summit in fall, the trail leads into the awe-inspiring Cascade Canyon. Towering granite cliffs frame this glacially-carved wonder, and the tumbling waters of Cascade Creek provide a melodic soundtrack. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as this area is frequented by moose, elk, and even the occasional black bear.
Being in the heart of the canyon is absolutely spectacular, and you'll truly feel the majesty of nature from this vantage point.
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All said, hiking through Paintbrush Canyon in the fall is a journey into a world of vivid hues and natural wonders. The trail's challenging terrain is rewarded with breathtaking vistas, serene lakes, and encounters with the untamed beauty of the Tetons.
As you stand on Paintbrush Divide, gazing at the rugged peaks, you'll be reminded of the awe-inspiring power of nature. So, embrace the crisp mountain air and let the colors of autumn guide you through this extraordinary corner of Grand Teton National Park. The challenge of the full loop is worth it, but there's no need to hike the entirety for brilliant rewards!
In fact, you can enjoy the magic of this thrilling hike without ever leaving home. Check out this video from YouTube user The Mountain Matt:
Have you ever hiked Paintbrush Canyon before, regardless of the season? Do you have any tips to share?
Important Reminders: While fall is a glorious time to hike Paintbrush Canyon, it’s important to be aware of potential seasonal restrictions. As mentioned earlier, the higher elevations will likely experience an early snowfall (up to a few feet deep), so hikers should check trail conditions, adhere to road closures, and be prepared for widely varying weather with spikes, poles, etc. Additionally, wildlife activity may be more pronounced during the fall months, so maintaining a safe distance and carrying bear spray is crucial. Camping in the area requires a permit, and NO pets are allowed. If you encounter snow, this hike will certainly take two days or more, so come prepared with a plan and a GPS app.
While we love the Tetons in all of their memorable, sawtooth-like glory, Wyoming is home to more than a few memorable trails with fantastic endpoints and overlooks. For another stunning canyon hike in the Tetons, you’ll want to check out Death Canyon as well. Or, for more seasonal goodness, check out a few fall festivals while you’re out and about.
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