Teton Traverses
Overview
Teton Traverses
The Tetons are home to some of the most sought-after alpine linkups in North America. Routes like the Cathedral Traverse, Grand Traverse, and Cloudveil Traverse connect multiple summits, ridges, and technical climbing sections into a single unforgettable mountain adventure.
Why Traverse?
- Link multiple iconic Teton peaks in one climb
- Experience sustained alpine ridge travel and technical climbing
- Enjoy continuous movement through spectacular mountain terrain
- Develop efficiency, route-finding, and mountain skills
- Complete some of the most coveted objectives in American alpinism
Who It's For
- Experienced climbers looking for a bigger challenge than a single summit
- Alpine climbers seeking long, committing days in the mountains
- Climbers preparing for larger objectives in North America or abroad
Featured Traverses
- Cathedral Traverse
- Grand Traverse
- Cloudveil Traverse
Guided by AMGA-certified guides, Teton traverses offer a unique opportunity to experience the finest ridgelines and alpine terrain that make Wyoming's Teton Range legendary among climbers.
Grand Traverse
The Grand Traverse is one of the most demanding alpine routes in North America. It's a committing, technical ridge traverse linking the summit of Teewinot Mountain to the Grand Teton across seven major peaks and over 20,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain. Combining sustained 5th-class rock climbing, exposed mixed terrain, and serious route-finding, this iconic Teton objective demands fitness, and advanced alpine climbing skills. Typically completed in 3 long days the Grand Traverse is the ultimate test for climbers seeking the full measure of the Teton Range.
Cathedral Traverse
The Cathedral Traverse is one of the premier alpine ridge traverses in the Teton Range. It's a two day multi-pitch mountaineering route linking the summits of Teewinot Mountain, Mount Owen, and the Grand Teton across some of the most dramatic high alpine terrain in the American West. Featuring exposed 5th-class rock climbing, intricate route-finding, and committing technical sections above 13,000 feet, this classic Teton objective demands strong climbing fitness and experience moving efficiently through complex mountain terrain. For climbers ready to step beyond single summit objective, the Cathedral Traverse delivers an unforgettable high-route experience in the heart of Grand Teton National Park.
Cloudveil Traverse
The Cloud Veil Traverse is an exceptional introduction to Teton ridge traversing — a two day moderate, high alpine route linking the South Teton to Cloudveil Dome across exposed, airy terrain that delivers a true mountaineering experience without the full commitment of the range's longer objectives. Featuring straightforward 5th-class climbing, stunning above treeline approaches, and sweeping views of the central Teton skyline, this accessible alpine traverse builds the technical skills and high altitude movement efficiency that form the foundation for bigger objectives like the Cathedral Traverse and Grand Traverse. For climbers ready to move beyond single summit days and step into the world of Teton alpinism, the Cloud Veil Traverse is the ideal proving ground.
2 day traverse - 1:1 $3,300
3 day traverse - 1:1 $4,500
Traverses are booked as 1:1 climbs due to the complex nature.
Please read through our policies by visiting this page.
CLICK HERE to submit an inquiry and discuss further. Traverses are best done during drier periods of the Summer from July 15 to the end of August.
Footwear
Objective Dependent – Scarpa footwear is available at Jackson Hole Mountain Guides for rent. JHMG also carries a selection of rock shoes for rent.
- Sticky Rubber Approach Shoes: required for all mid-summer climbs (mid-July through Sept). Guide Pick: Scarpa Crux (Available for rent)
OR
- Mountain Boots: Most trips before July 15 and all Gannett Peak Climbs, require a crampon-compatible mountain boot – Guide Pick: Scarpa Zodiac Tech (Available for rent)
- Rock Shoes for technical rock routes (Available for rent)
- Socks: 2-4 pairs: sized for your boots and blister prevention
Upper Layers
- Synthetic/Wool Long Underwear Top
- OR
- Synthetic/ Wool Sun Hoody
- Synthetic T-shirt
- Insulating Jacket: lightweight fleece or synthetic
- Soft Shell: fleece or pile
- Rain Jacket: waterproof/breathable with hood.
Bottom Layers
- Synthetic/Wool Long Underwear Bottom
- Hiking Short or Pant for approach
- Synthetic Climbing Pant
- Rain Pant
Accessories
- Hat: lightweight to medium-weight warm hat – sleek enough to be worn under a helmet
- Gloves: BRING TWO PAIR – one lightweight to medium weight pair – synthetic or fleece material. If snow route, shell also recommended.
On the trail
- Alpine Climbing Pack – Internal frame only. 45 to 5O L for 2 or 4 day trip. Large enough to fit all your personal gear plus ten pounds of food and water.
- Sleeping Bag
- Water Bottles (2-3 L/Qt.) or H2O hydration system
- Water Treatment – Steripen or other
- Closed-toed camp shoes (optional)
- Stuff Sacks: zip lock bags
- Dark Sunglasses
- Extra Contact Lenses
- Sun Hat or Visor
- Sunscreen (35+SPF)
- Lip Balm
- Headlamp and Fresh Batteries
- First Aid – minimal: blister care, analgesic, etc.
- Dinner, Lunch, snacks & drink mix.
- Misc Items: minimal: light knife, camera,
bandana, camp suds, washcloth, etc.
Some trips require (please inquire with JHMG):
- Sleeping Pad: Closed-cell foam or Thermarest
Recommended & Optional Items
- Trekking Poles
- Camera and batteries, spare memory card
- Insoles: custom or aftermarket
- Insect Repellent (Ask the office if this is necessary)
- Headnet (Ask the office if this is necessary)
- Camp Shoe – lightweight
Cold Weather Considerations:
Early and late-season temperatures require warmer clothing. You may consider additional clothing if you get cold easily or if it is unusually cold or windy.
- Buff or neck gaiter
- Extra down vest or jacket
- Expedition weight long underwear
- Extra gloves
**The Mountain Guides supplies all the rock climbing gear, harnesses, helmets, locking carabiners & belay/rappel devices, crampons, and ice axes. However, you are welcome to bring your own equipment. Please coordinate with our office for gear checks. Backpacks, rock shoes, and boots can all be rented & purchased in our Jackson office.
For your safety and comfort, bring synthetic and or natural fiber clothing for insulation. Cotton
is NOT recommended and down must be kept dry. Clothing should be able to layer without
encumbering movement.
Grand Teton National Park is located roughly 30 minutes from our Jackson, WY headquarters. Our Jackson office is located in the south part of Jackson at 1325 S. Highway 89, Suite 104 and shares a parking area with Smith’s. Our phone number is (800) 239-7642 or (307) 733-4979. Most trips and classes will meet at this office for gear checks, preparation, and classes. The Jackson Hole airport is the closest, but Idaho Falls (a 2 – 2.5 hour drive) is a cheaper option and Salt Lake City (4 – 5 hour drive) are also air travel options. It is helpful to arrive a couple of days prior to your trip/class in order to acclimatize. Otherwise, you should arrive the day before and stop by our office for an equipment check. Do not plan on traveling the day after a significant climb – you will be tired and there are no guaranteed times when we will return to the trailhead. Plan on having accommodations for the night prior to and the night you return from a significant climb. There are a plethora of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts in Jackson and the surrounding area. Accommodations near our office make your transitions convenient. It is highly advisable to make reservations as early as possible. Lodging recommendations and many more details can be found in the downloadable document below.