Paintbrush Canyon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leigh Canyon |
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Mount Saint John and Rockchuck Peak at left flank Paintbrush Canyon as does Mount Woodring at center. Leigh Canyon and the southern slope of Mount Moran are at right
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| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | Wyoming |
| County | Teton |
| Lake | Leigh Lake |
Paintbrush Canyon is a beautiful place located in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, United States. This amazing canyon was carved out by huge sheets of ice called glaciers. These glaciers slowly moved away about 15,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age.
The canyon is surrounded by tall mountains. To the south, you'll find Rockchuck Peak and Mount Saint John. To the north, there's Mount Woodring. At the bottom of the canyon to the east is Leigh Lake. Higher up, in the middle of the canyon, you can find the lovely alpine Holly Lake.
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Exploring Paintbrush Canyon
Paintbrush Canyon is a very popular spot for hikers. Many people enjoy exploring its trails and seeing the stunning views.
Popular Hiking Trails
One famous hike is a long loop that covers about 19.2 miles (30.9 km). This hike is considered very challenging because it goes up and down a lot. Hikers gain about 3,845 feet (1,172 meters) in elevation. The trail leads up to a high point called Paintbrush Divide, which is 10,720 feet (3,267 meters) high.
Views from Paintbrush Divide
From Paintbrush Divide, you can see incredible sights. You'll get a great view of Lake Solitude, which is also part of the loop hike. To the north, you can see Mount Moran. To the south, you'll see the impressive Cathedral Group of mountains, including the famous Grand Teton.
Safety on the Trail
If you plan to hike in early summer, you might need special gear. An ice axe can be helpful for crossing snowy or icy patches. Always be prepared for mountain weather.
Connecting Trails
The main path through the canyon is called the Paintbrush Canyon Trail. This trail is part of a much longer route known as the Teton Crest Trail. The Teton Crest Trail stretches for about 39 miles (63 km). It goes from Teton Pass (near Wyoming Highway 22) all the way to String Lake. This trail lets you explore a large part of the Teton Range.
