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12,513 ft · Teton Range, Wyoming

South Teton

South Teton is a 12,513 ft peak in the Teton Range, Wyoming. The standard route is the Northwest Couloir: 13 mi, 5,782 ft of gain, Class 4.

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South Teton in the Teton Range, Wyoming

South Teton at a glance

  • Elevation12,513 ft3,813 m
  • RouteNorthwest CouloirClass 4
  • Distance13 mi5,782 ft gain
  • Time14 – 16 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeTeton RangeWyoming

Climbing the Northwest Couloir

From Jackson, take US 191 north to Moose and the Teton Park Road to the Lupine Meadows Trailhead. Hike into Garnet Canyon to the Meadows and climb the South Fork to the saddle between Middle and South Teton. The Northwest Couloir route crosses a steep permanent snowfield on the north slopes, then scrambles a short gully of mostly Class 3 rock with a few Class 4 moves to the summit ridge. Carry an ice axe (crampons early season) for the snowfield and a helmet for loose rock. Start before dawn to beat afternoon storms on this long single day. A Grand Teton entrance pass is required.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (35–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy
  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Rope
  • Belay Device
  • Carabiners

What to watch for

  • Loose rock
  • Rockfall
  • Snow near summit
  • Storms

Quests with South Teton

Peaks near South Teton

  1. Middle Teton

    Middle Teton

    12,803 ft · 0.9 mi away

  2. Nez Perce Peak

    Nez Perce Peak

    11,900 ft · 1.1 mi away

  3. Mount Wister

    Mount Wister

    11,486 ft · 1.2 mi away

  4. Veiled Peak

    Veiled Peak

    11,338 ft · 1.3 mi away

Frequently asked questions

How tall is South Teton?

South Teton is 12,513 feet (3,813 m) tall. It is in the Teton Range, Wyoming.

How does South Teton rank among the Teton 11,000ers?

At 12,513 feet, South Teton is the 5th highest of the 28 Teton 11,000ers. The highest is Grand Teton.

How hard is it to climb South Teton?

The Northwest Couloir is Class 4, which means exposed scrambling, where many parties bring a rope. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 13 miles with 5,782 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb South Teton?

Most people take 14 – 16 hours round trip on the Northwest Couloir, covering 13 miles with 5,782 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Is South Teton dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a rope to climb South Teton?

Most parties bring one. The Northwest Couloir is Class 4, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.

Will you get altitude sickness on South Teton?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and South Teton reaches 12,513 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start climbing South Teton?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 14 – 16 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.

When is the best time to climb South Teton?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb South Teton with Yak

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