Drive, hike or bike to one of the most popular viewpoints in the park to observe majestic mountains and a serene lake.
Signal Mountain stands apart from the extended ridgeline of the Grand Teton Mountains, offering exceptional views of the craggy peaks and neighboring valley and lake. Enjoy a scenic ride or hike to the summit and gaze at the towering giants, capped by snow almost all year.
Hiking, biking and driving to the summit generally starts from Signal Mountain Lodge on the eastern shoreline of Jackson Lake. The moderately strenuous hike is about 6.8 miles (10.9 kilometers) round-trip with 850 feet (260 meters) of elevation change. Look for deer, elk or moose amid tall pine trees, with eagles and hawks soaring overhead as you travel to the summit.
The mountain rises 7,727 feet (2,355 meters) above sea level. Hike through forest and open areas filled with seasonal wildflowers, including purple lupine, yellow sagebrush and orange Indian paintbrush.
Alternatively, enjoy the challenge of driving up a narrow, winding road, with several pull-offs available along the 5-mile (8-kilometer) stretch. The summit has a restroom.
No matter how you access Signal Mountain, be sure to visit the Jackson Lake Overlook as well. From the small parking spot at the hairpin turn about 0.3 mile (0.5 kilometer) before reaching the summit, walk less than 100 feet (30 meters) southwest to this viewpoint.
Use the facilities at the lake level trailhead before or after your summit visit. Signal Mountain Lodge offers restrooms, showers, laundry, gas, marina docks and a convenience store, gift store, restaurant and chapel. Before your visit, reserve lodge accommodations or a campsite just south if you wish to stay overnight.
Drive to Signal Mountain Lodge in about 45 minutes from Jackson or 20 minutes from Colter Bay Village. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the round-trip hike from the lodge, including time to soak up the views.. Drive from the lodge to the summit in 15 minutes or bike up in 40 minutes. The summit drive generally closes in October and reopens in late May. You’ll need to pay the Grand Teton National Park entrance fee to visit the Signal Mountain area.
