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Death Canyon and Static Peak Shuttle
Trail Running Route
Hard
18.61 mi
4,715 ft
An epic traverse through the heart of the Tetons, best run as a shuttle.
Second only to the [Teton Crest Trail]( this is one of the most epic trail runs in all of the Teton Mountains. Only possible as a shuttle, this run begins with a popular overlook of Phelps Lake, then climbs its way through Buck Mountain Pass, quickly skirting along the edge of Albright, Static, and Buck Mountain Peaks. After crossing the Teton Crest Trail, it continues into a lush, vibrant basin that drains into Teton Canyon near its namesake campground. With an abundance of wildlife, summer wildflowers, and even wild edibles, this run is nothing short of spectacular and is a must-do for the seasoned trail runner looking for a challenge.
This epic is most often completed east to west, beginning at the Death Canyon Trailhead. The trailhead is slightly north of Phelps lake and just a quick drive from Teton Village. In addition to the Death Canyon Trail, many hikers depart for an out-and-back to Static Peak, an epic ~15+ mile run with a short scramble to the 11,200' summit. Those completing the route as mapped have the option to make the side trip to the official peak. Many proclaim it as one of the best mountaintop vistas in all of the Tetons, with much of the Teton Massif within view from its perch.
The western terminus for this run shares a trailhead with the [Table Mountain Loop]( another excellent trail run with impeccable views of the western faces of the Teton Massif. The trailhead offers plenty of parking, including adequate space for RVs, trailers, and otherwise large vehicles. In addition to the abundance of campsites near each trailhead, both Jackson Hole and Grand Targhee Resorts are just a short drive from their respective trailheads.
As mapped, nearly all the climbing comes in the first 7 miles and can be extremely steep at times. Trekking poles are highly recommended, and proper gear is crucial. The National Forest recommends running in groups of 2-3 to deter wildlife encounters, and items such as bear bells and bear spray come highly recommended. A light, locator beacon, emergency blanket, and proper layering are other essential items recommended by those who have completed the route.
Except along Buck Mountain Pass Trail between Death Canyon and the Alaska Basin, water is abundant. Filter what you plan to drink, and be mindful of the higher elevations and how they affect your hydration. This route traverses remote backcountry, and there is no quick way off the trail should you battle dehydration or hypothermia. Expect complete autonomy, and don't underestimate the difficulty of this run.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Second only to the [Teton Crest Trail]( this is one of the most epic trail runs in all of the Teton Mountains. Only possible as a shuttle, this run begins with a popular overlook of Phelps Lake, then climbs its way through Buck Mountain Pass, quickly skirting along the edge of Albright, Static, and Buck Mountain Peaks. After crossing the Teton Crest Trail, it continues into a lush, vibrant basin that drains into Teton Canyon near its namesake campground. With an abundance of wildlife, summer wildflowers, and even wild edibles, this run is nothing short of spectacular and is a must-do for the seasoned trail runner looking for a challenge.
This epic is most often completed east to west, beginning at the Death Canyon Trailhead. The trailhead is slightly north of Phelps lake and just a quick drive from Teton Village. In addition to the Death Canyon Trail, many hikers depart for an out-and-back to Static Peak, an epic ~15+ mile run with a short scramble to the 11,200' summit. Those completing the route as mapped have the option to make the side trip to the official peak. Many proclaim it as one of the best mountaintop vistas in all of the Tetons, with much of the Teton Massif within view from its perch.
The western terminus for this run shares a trailhead with the [Table Mountain Loop]( another excellent trail run with impeccable views of the western faces of the Teton Massif. The trailhead offers plenty of parking, including adequate space for RVs, trailers, and otherwise large vehicles. In addition to the abundance of campsites near each trailhead, both Jackson Hole and Grand Targhee Resorts are just a short drive from their respective trailheads.
As mapped, nearly all the climbing comes in the first 7 miles and can be extremely steep at times. Trekking poles are highly recommended, and proper gear is crucial. The National Forest recommends running in groups of 2-3 to deter wildlife encounters, and items such as bear bells and bear spray come highly recommended. A light, locator beacon, emergency blanket, and proper layering are other essential items recommended by those who have completed the route.
Except along Buck Mountain Pass Trail between Death Canyon and the Alaska Basin, water is abundant. Filter what you plan to drink, and be mindful of the higher elevations and how they affect your hydration. This route traverses remote backcountry, and there is no quick way off the trail should you battle dehydration or hypothermia. Expect complete autonomy, and don't underestimate the difficulty of this run.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Death Canyon Trailhead Climb | 1.00 mi | 427 ft | 8.0% |
| Death Canyon TH up to Static Peak Divide ridge | 7.22 mi | 3,471 ft | 8.9% |
| Death Canyon Trailhead to Static Peak Divide | 7.93 mi | 4,062 ft | 9.5% |
| N Granite Ridge Rd Climb | 1.66 mi | 1,115 ft | 12.7% |
| Moose Wilson Road Climb | 0.32 mi | 148 ft | 8.5% |
| Alaska Basin Trail Climb | 1.67 mi | 1,161 ft | 13.1% |
| cabin to static divide | 4.06 mi | 2,910 ft | 13.5% |
| Alaska Basin Trail climb to Static Divide ridge | 3.29 mi | 2,339 ft | 13.5% |
| Alaska Basin down the South Fork | 7.27 mi | -2,434 ft | -6.3% |
| ABT: Devil's Staircase to TH | 2.72 mi | -486 ft | -3.4% |