Middle Teton

Hello All,
I'm not sure this is the right place to post this as this site seems more tailored towards rock climbers vs backpackers but I will be in the Tetons July 26-30 and was thinking about doing a 2 night hike up Middle Teton. I have some mountaineering experience but the more I read about it, the more having a partner or two makes sense (especially with the wildlife). I am not looking to do any actual climbing or rapelling involving ropes so I'd be looking at doing the Southwest Colouir route.

Any suggestions on other places to look for partners or other options around the park that are good for solo travel?

Thanks

Shaaarrrp wrote:I am not looking to do any actual climbing or rapelling involving ropes so I'd be looking at doing the Southwest Colouir route.

Two nights would be a long trip for that route, but, a nice relaxing one. Folks bust it out car-to-car quite commonly as well as an overnighter. Camping space can be tough to come by at the Meadows.

I've done it solo a bunch (sans rope but usually with partners). Its the standard ascent and descent route on the mountain. There's some exposure and loose rock to take care with, but, its not a hard scramble although steep in spots.

There's a GOB of traffic in that area in late July, as, its prime time. You won't be alone.

Thanks for the input....it somewhat alleviates my concern about hiking alone but a little company would still be nice.

I'm not sure I am up to doing the full hike in 1 day....we did Hagues Peak in CO last year in two nights and it felt like the perfect length so I was aiming for a similar 3 day/2night trip.

As I understand it 2/3 of the backcountry sites (I assume designated) are first come/first serve? So, if I showed up really early one morning should I be ok?

Is the meadow a seperate place where a bunch of people with backcountry permits setup in undesigated locations?

Thanks again

Shaaarrrp wrote:As I understand it 2/3 of the backcountry sites (I assume designated) are first come/first serve? So, if I showed up really early one morning should I be ok? Is the meadow a seperate place where a bunch of people with backcountry permits setup in undesigated locations?

Something like that. The Meadows is a nice spot and crowded, deservedly so. You wouldn't need to stay there since you're going up the south fork. There's some pretty nice camps just out of the Meadows per se in that direction.

I think the Meadows books up fairly quickly. And, that weekend you mentioned is a big one especially for us Utards as it falls near pie and beer day (the whole state is pretty much on vacation the 24th for Pioneer Day). Two night limit for the Meadows I dimly recall.

Worth givin' a shot. Scenery can't be beat.

If you want to get a walk-in permit for camping at the Meadows it's best to show up the day before you plan to hike up there. At busy times of year there's a lineup at the Jenny Lake Ranger station even before they open (not sure but I think 8am). Permits for the S Fork of Garnet Canyon are easier to come by.

Thanks for the advice on the backcountry permits...I have about 5 days to explore so I don't think showing up a day early would be a problem to increase my chances of getting aw walkin permit. Is the Jenny Lake Ranger Station just on a road or do I need to hike there? I guess I'll call them to get more details on when to show up.

Thanks again!

Here's more information about backcountry permits, ranger station hours etc.

nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/…
nps.gov/grte/planyourvisit/…

Plus one for the South Fork, for that route.

Look for partners at the Climber's Ranch?

E Face or E Ridge of Buck is a nice day. Also, The Jaw.

My wife and I showed up at the Jenny Lake ranger station early the morning before our intended climb up the Southwest Couloir on an August morning. The line developed behind us but we had dibs on the Meadows and it worked out perfectly. If you were ready, ie. packed and acclimatized, etc., you could get your permit and hike up to the Meadows that same day, set up camp, and relax til the following early morning start. As far as the route itself goes, there is some talus and loose rock so a helmet is advisable but ropes or gear are unnecessary. Bring a camera for sure because the views over into Idaho and of the Grand Teton are amazing :) Have fun!!