Death Canyon

Death Canyon is a deep gorge in Grand Teton National Park with steep granite walls and multiple hiking trails that lead to Phelps Lake. The valley features a U-shaped profile bordered by towering rock faces on both sides.

The gorge was carved approximately 15,000 years ago when glaciers retreated at the close of the last ice age, creating the distinctive U-shaped valley. Ranchers later settled in the area and left behind evidence of early occupation and land use.

The Death Canyon Barn is a historic structure that hikers encounter along the trails, standing as a reminder of the ranching era when families worked this remote valley. The building shows how settlers adapted to life in such isolated mountain terrain.

Access is via Moose-Wilson Road, which leads to trailheads offering routes ranging from moderate to strenuous hikes. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and prepare for changing mountain weather conditions.

The Death Canyon Shelf is a narrow level plateau running through the gorge that provides access to extensive Whitebark Pine forests. This flat terrain amid steep slopes is a surprising geographic feature that many hikers overlook.