Jedediah Smith Wilderness

The Jedediah Smith Wilderness is a federally protected area in the Teton Range. The area encompasses around 123,451 acres, which is located within Caribou-Targhee National Forest, on the west slope of the mountains next to Grand Teton National Park. The area is located within the state of Wyoming and is managed by the United States Forest Service.

The area is known for its unique limestone geology, numerous caves, and stunning views of the mountains. As part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, this beautiful and delicate landscape is home to a variety of plants and animals, including black bears, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, wolverines, moose, and elk. 

SEASONS

The area receives heavy snowfall in the winter that sometimes remains on the trails through spring and early summer. Summer is the busiest season for hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing.

THINGS TO DO

• Hiking / Backpacking

• Camping

HIGHLIGHTS

• 175 miles of trails, including some that connect to Grand Teton National Park. 

• Teton Canyon 

  • The North Fork Trail 

  • Table Mountain

  • South Fork Trail 

  • Alaska Basin

• Darby Canyon Wind Caves

• The Teton Crest Trail is a north-to-south route that runs along the Tetons and crosses the Jedediah Smith Wilderness in the scenic Alaska Basin Area.

REGULATIONS

Visitors should do everything they can to protect these beautiful and wild spaces. This section contains some regulations specific to this area, however, it is highly recommended that you read the information provided at https://wilderness.net/visit-wilderness/? ID=275#area-management for more details. 

• Permits are required for overnight camping in Grand Teton National Park.

• Dogs are not allowed in the Wilderness. 

• Group size is limited to no more than 20 people.

• Campfires are prohibited at Sunset Lake, Alaska Basin, Moose Lakes Basin, and the Fox Pass area.

• Cutting switchbacks is prohibited. 

• Pack out EVERYTHING that you packed in (including garbage and other waste).

• Food and other scented items must be properly stored.

• No caching: Storing equipment, personal property, or supplies is prohibited.

• Possessing or placing salt for the purpose of attracting wildlife is prohibited. 

• Mechanical vehicles (including wagons, game carts, bicycles, and other vehicles) are prohibited.

• Camping is not allowed within 200 feet of lakes and 100 feet from stream banks. 

Reference: www.wilderness.net.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

USFS