Overview
Garns Mountain sits on the eastern edge of the Teton Valley immediately west of the national forest boundary, offering one of the most accessible full-day ridge walks in the Driggs area. The 8.5-mile loop climbs 1,800 feet to a ridgeline that runs north-south above the valley floor, providing continuous views of Teton Valley and, across it, the western face of the Teton Range.
For visitors based in Driggs or Victor, Garns Mountain is the local go-to trail when the higher routes are still buried in snow or when a full-day approach to Teton Canyon doesn't fit the schedule. It functions as both a workout and a viewpoint, delivering genuine ridge terrain and big-sky perspectives without requiring the 3,000-foot commitment of the Teton Canyon route.
Caribou-Targhee National Forest manages the trail within the national forest boundary near the top of the loop. The lower section crosses private land where an easement permits public access; stay on the designated trail to respect the land agreement.
The loop is also a reliable early-season option. The south-facing aspects on much of the route mean snow clears earlier here than on north-facing Teton approaches, and by late May or early June the trail is usually in good shape.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: Valley Approach and Initial Climb
The trail begins at the Garns Mountain Trailhead (approximately 6,400 feet) and climbs east through open sagebrush terrain and scattered aspen groves. The gradient is consistent rather than steep in the lower section, and the views of Teton Valley open almost immediately behind you as the trail gains the first bench.
An easement through private property in the lower section requires hikers to stay on the marked trail. Signs indicate the boundaries. The terrain transitions from sagebrush meadow to open lodgepole pine and aspen forest by mile 2.
Miles 2.5 to 5.0: The Ridge
The loop reaches the main ridgeline at approximately mile 2.5 and follows it north for 2.5 miles. This is the most scenic section: an open, exposed ridge with views east across Teton Valley to the Teton crest and west across the broader valley toward the Snake River Plain. The Grand Teton is directly visible to the east on clear days.
The ridge is exposed to wind, which can be significant. Wind layers are worth carrying even on warm days. Wildflowers on the open ridge in late June and early July include balsamroot, penstemon, and Indian paintbrush.
Miles 5.0 to 8.5: Descent
The loop leaves the ridge and descends through forest on the north side of the mountain, returning to the valley floor on a different route than the ascent. The descent is gradual and the trail runs through pleasant lodgepole and aspen forest. The final 2 miles return across the valley floor to the trailhead.
When to Visit
June through October. The lower elevations allow earlier access than the Teton high-country routes, typically by late May in normal years. Fall color in the aspen groves peaks in late September and early October, making this an excellent autumn destination.
What to Bring
Water sources are limited to nonexistent on this loop. Many hikers carry:
- 2-3 liters of water for the full loop; do not count on natural sources
- Wind layers for the exposed ridgeline section
- Sun protection for the open ridge
- Trekking poles for the descent
- A light snack for the ridgeline rest
Individual needs vary depending on temperature and exertion level.
Practical Details
No permit is required as of 2026. No trailhead facilities. Cell service is limited near Driggs and generally absent on the upper trail. Dogs are permitted on leash.
Leave No Trace principles apply, particularly regarding staying on designated trails through the private land section in the lower loop.
Getting There
From Driggs, drive east on Ski Hill Road (the main road toward Grand Targhee Resort) approximately 5 miles. The Garns Mountain Trailhead is signed on the right (south) side of the road before the main resort entrance. Parking is a dirt lot with room for roughly 15-20 vehicles. The road is paved to the trailhead.