Death Canyon Camping Zone — Grand Teton National Park

Head into Death Canyon for spectacular views of Phelps Lake and the surrounding peaks. Starting from the Death Canyon Trailhead, hikers will climb to the Phelps Lake Overlook before dropping down to Phelps Lake then climb back up into Death Canyon. The trail winds through forests and up rocky slopes before reaching the patrol cabin in Death Canyon.

Several moderate-very strenuous trails leave from the Death Canyon Trailhead. To access trails, drive down the Moose-Wilson road and follow signs to the Death Canyon Trailhead. The Moose-Wilson Road is closed to RVs and trailers and occasionally has closures. The Death Canyon Trailhead is located one mile down a rutted, dirt road. The road is not recommended for vehicles with low clearance. Exercise caution when driving down the Death Canyon Road and pull fully off of the road if parking on the shoulder.

Multiple hikes from Death Canyon include access to backcountry campsites. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry.

Always be prepapred when hiking in Grand Teton. Carry water for every member of your group, be alert to your surroundings, and understand your limitations on distance and elevation gain. Several trails from the Death Canyon Trailhead can hold snow until mid-July. Hikers should use caution when traveling over snow and not attempt trails unless they have previous snow experience and the proper equipment.

All reservations are processed through Recreation.gov in real-time. To facilitate your reservation experience, please establish an account on Recreation.gov prior to the advance reservation season.

A non-refundable service fee of $45 will be charged for each reservation (fee is per trip, not per person). One-third of the sites are reserved in advance, leaving two-thirds available for walk-in permits. Walk-in permits will be assessed a $35 fee per trip.

Some camping zones fill quickly. Download the backcountry trip planner to review regulations and a map showing the authorized camping zones. Individual party reservations can consist of up to six people. Groups of 7-12 people must camp in designated group sites indicated on the brochure map. View maps of the backcountry camping zones.