If you’re looking for one of the most rewarding hikes in the Grand Teton area, the Table Rock hike should be at the top of your list. This trail sits on the Idaho side of the Tetons, starting from the small town of Driggs.
The numbers tell an important story: 13 miles round trip, 4,156 feet of elevation gain, and views that will take your breath away. From the summit, you’ll see Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and countless other peaks spread out before you.
Plan your trip between July and September when the trail is most accessible. This hike demands good fitness and proper planning, but the payoff at the top makes every step worth it.
Table Mountain Trail Overview
The Table Rock hike covers 13 miles round trip, climbing from 6,950 feet at the trailhead to 11,106 feet at the summit. This trail earns its strenuous rating through constant elevation gain and challenging terrain near the top.
Most hikers take 5 to 6 hours to reach the summit and another 3 to 4 hours to get back down. The trail sits within the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness in Targhee National Forest, giving you that true backcountry feel.
You’ll start from the North Teton trailhead in the Driggs parking area. The trail climbs steadily through forests and meadows before hitting steep switchbacks and rocky sections near the summit.
Getting to the Trailhead
From Driggs, head east on Little Avenue until it becomes Ski Hill Road. Turn right onto Teton Canyon Road and follow it for 4.4 miles to the first trailhead parking area. The North Teton trailhead sits at the southeast end of the parking lot.
If you’re coming from Jackson, take Route 22 West through Teton Pass. This route brings you over the mountains and into Driggs. The drive takes about 45 minutes from Jackson.
The parking area fills up quickly on summer weekends, so arrive early. There’s limited space, and this is a popular trail for good reason.
Trail Route and What to Expect
Here’s what you’ll find as you make your way up this incredible trail.
Starting (0 to 2.8 miles)
The trail starts with a steep climb up the north side of the valley through beautiful aspen groves. At 1.1 miles, you’ll reach your first meadow, often filled with colorful wildflowers in mid-summer. Keep going straight at the Beards Wheatfield Trail junction at 1.4 miles.
By 2.2 miles, you’ll get your first views of North Fork Creek below. At 2.8 miles, you’ll need to cross a stream where an old bridge used to stand. Depending on the season and water levels, you might need to wade through.
Mid-Trail Section (2.8 to 4.6 miles)
A large meadow opens up at 3.2 miles, giving you your first clear views of Table Mountain itself. This is a good spot to take a break and enjoy the scenery. At 3.6 miles, you’ll enter a beautiful basin surrounded by towering rock walls.
The trail gets much steeper at 3.75 miles as you climb switchbacks up the east-facing headwall. Push through this section, and you’ll reach the ridge crest at 4.6 miles. From here, Grand Teton and Mount Owen come into full view.
Final Push to Summit (4.6 to 6.5 miles)
At 5.0 miles, you’ll see the Face Trail junction. Skip this route unless you’re an experienced scrambler, as it’s extremely steep and exposed. The standard route continues up a broad ridge starting at 5.4 miles.
Watch for large cairns marking the path through a boulder field at 5.75 miles. The final section crosses very steep talus slopes and rock ledges. At 6.5 miles, you’ll reach the summit block with its incredible 360-degree views of Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, Grand Teton, Middle Teton, and South Teton.
Best Time to Hike Table Mountain
Plan your table rock hike Tetons between mid-July and September for the best conditions. Snow covers this trail most of the year, making it dangerous or impossible to complete outside this window.
Even in late July, you might run into deep snow on the upper sections. By mid-September, you’ll find manageable conditions with some mud and patches of snow near the summit. Don’t attempt this hike earlier than July or later than October.
Start your hike between 7:00 and 8:00 AM to make sure you finish before dark. The ridge is completely exposed with no cover if thunderstorms roll in, which happens frequently in the afternoons during summer.
Essential Gear and Preparation
Proper gear makes the difference between a great day and a dangerous situation on this trail.
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support for rocky terrain
- Warm layers, including a jacket (the summit is windy and cold even in summer)
- Multiple liters of water per person (bring more than you think you need)
- Substantial snacks and lunch to keep your energy up
- Navigation tools (the trail can disappear in rock fields near the top)
- Trekking poles for the steep sections going up and down
- Stream crossing gear if hiking early in the season
This is a strenuous hike that requires good physical conditioning. Train on hills before attempting this trail, and know your limits.
Wildlife and Safety Considerations
Bears are active on this trail, especially in the meadow sections. Store your food properly in bear-resistant containers or bags, and make noise as you hike to avoid surprising wildlife.
Stream crossings early in the season can be tricky with high water levels. Take your time and use trekking poles for stability. The steep, rocky terrain near the summit demands careful foot placement with every step.
The weather can change quickly in the mountains. If storms develop while you’re on the exposed ridge sections, turn around immediately. Pack a first aid kit and know basic wilderness first aid before heading out.
What You’ll See: Views from Table Mountain Summit
The summit of the Table Rock hike Tetons offers some of the best mountain views in North America.
- Cathedral Group: Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, and Grand Teton (just 2 miles away)
- Middle Teton and South Teton rise to the south
- Cascade Canyon and the upper South Fork cut through the range
- Mount Moran and Thor Peak to the northeast
- The Continental Divide stretches south toward Hurricane Pass
- Mount Wister and Buck Mountain to the southeast
- Mount Meeks and the peaks around Death Canyon
- The Teton Shelf and countless surrounding summits
- Paintbrush Divide cutting across the landscape
A protected cove on the right side of the summit block shelters you from the constant wind. This is the perfect spot to rest, eat lunch, and soak in the views before heading back down.
Conclusion
The Table Rock hike tetons stands out as one of the most spectacular hikes in the entire Teton Range. Yes, it’s difficult. Yes, it requires serious preparation and good fitness. But the views from the top make every challenging step worthwhile.
Come prepared with proper gear, start early, and know what you’re getting into. This isn’t a casual day hike, but for well-conditioned hikers, it’s an experience you’ll remember forever.
Respect this wilderness area by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on the trail, and help preserve this special place for future hikers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Beginners Hike Table Mountain?
This trail is rated strenuous and not recommended for beginners. You need excellent fitness, mountain hiking experience, and comfort with steep, rocky terrain. Build up your skills on easier trails first.
Is Table Mountain the Same as Table Rock?
Yes, locals sometimes call this hike Table Rock, but the official name is Table Mountain. Both names refer to the same trail and summit on the Idaho side of the Tetons.
Are There Restrooms at the Trailhead?
Basic restroom facilities are available at the Teton Canyon parking area. Use them before starting your hike, as there are no facilities along the trail itself.
Do I Need a Permit to Hike This Trail?
No permit is required for day hikes on this trail. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness, you’ll need to obtain a wilderness camping permit from the Forest Service.
What’s the Difference Between the Face Trail and the Huckleberry Trail?
The Face Trail is shorter but much steeper with exposed scrambling sections. The Huckleberry Trail (the standard route described here) is longer but more gradual with better footing. Most hikers choose the Huckleberry route.
