Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide variety of activities available in each season.
In the winter, the area is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, while the spring brings opportunities for hiking and fishing. The summer is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and white water rafting, and the fall is known for its stunning foliage and hunting season. No matter the time of year, there is always something to do and see in Jackson Hole.
Winter Activities
Winter in Jackson Hole is cold, with average temperatures ranging from 20-30°F (-6 to -1°C). The area gets a lot of snow, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The ski season typically runs from November to April. On average, the area ski resorts receive around 450 inches (11 m) of snow per year.
World-Class Skiing & Snowboarding
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Jackson, WY – USA
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one of the hardest ski areas in the country. It ranks in the top 10% of most-difficult ski resorts in all of North America, mostly due to the fact that it has 50% of its trails rated as expert-level, and a vertical drop of 4,139 feet.
Summit: 10,450′
Vertical: 4,139′
Base: 6,311′
Trails: 133
Lifts: 13
Acres: 2,500
Beginner: 10%
Intermediate: 40%
Expert: 50%
More Information…
Skiing in Jackson, Wyoming is excellent, with a long ski season and a variety of ski resorts in the area. The ski season here typically runs from November to April, depending on the snow conditions. The area receives an average of around 450 inches (1143 cm) of snow per year, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the most popular ski resort in the area. The resort is located just outside of the town of Jackson and offers over 2,500 acres (1,012 hectares) of skiable terrain, with a vertical drop of over 4,000 feet (1,219 meters). The resort has a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, as well as terrain parks and backcountry access. Other ski resorts in the area include Snow King Ski Resort and Grand Targhee Resort.
Jackson Hole Snowmobile Tours
Snowmobile tours typically take place in the winter months around Jackson Hole, when the snow is deep enough to support the vehicles. The tours can last anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the company and the specific tour. Prices for snowmobile tours in Jackson Hole can vary, but you can expect to pay around $150-300 per person for a half-day tour, and around $300-500 per person for a full-day one.
Here are some of the companies that offer snowmobile tours around Jackson Hole:
- Jackson Hole Snowmobile
- Grand Teton Snowmobile
- Hoback Sports
- Teton Backcountry Rentals
Summer Activities
In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the summer months are typically June, July, and August. During these months, the weather is warm, with average temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (15 to 27°C). These months are a popular time to visit the area for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and white water rafting.
Alpine Slides in Jackson Hole
An alpine slide is a long, steep slide that is typically made of concrete or fiberglass and is located at a ski resort. Riders sit in a sled-like cart and control their own speed as they slide down the track.
The only alpine slide in Jackson Hole is the one at Snow King. This exhilarating slide zooms, dips, and curves you around Snow King Mountain with incredible views of the Tetons and the town of Jackson! The half-mile track has a vertical drop of 350 feet and reaches speeds up to 25 mph. You can purchase tickets for the slide here.
Zip Lines in Jackson Hole
The Snow King Ski Resort in Jackson Hole offers a zip line park as well. For the uninitiated, zip lining involves riding on a cable suspended high above the ground, going from platform to platform. The fantastic views around Jackson Hole will look a whole lot different from up there, too! Snow King Mountain’s ZipTour is an extreme activity that involves heights of over 100 feet off the ground and speeds over 30 mph.
Jackson Hole Whitewater Rafting
The Snake River, which runs through the Jackson Hole valley, offers a variety of whitewater rafting opportunities. The river has Class II-IV rapids, making it suitable for both novice and experienced rafters. Class II rapids are for the novice rafter, which include straightforward rapids with some small waves and rocks. Class IV rapids are for the advanced rafter, and include long, difficult rapids with high, irregular waves and large rocks.
There are a couple of companies in Jackson Hole that offer guided whitewater rafting tours down the Snake River. These tours typically operate from May to September, depending on the water levels and weather conditions. Here are some of the companies in Jackson Hole that provide whitewater rafting excursions:
Fishing in Jackson Hole
Fishing is allowed in the Snake River and its tributaries in Jackson Hole. The Snake River is known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of fish species including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, brook trout, and mountain whitefish.
Fishing season in Jackson Hole typically runs from May to September, depending on the specific waterway and species of fish. A Wyoming fishing license is required to fish in the state, and can be purchased online or at a local sporting goods store.
Guided fishing trips are also available for those that would prefer the help.
Jackson Hole Golfing
There are five golf courses in and around Jackson, WY. However, Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club is the most popular golf course in the area, and located just a few miles outside of Jackson. The public course is an 18-hole, par 70 layout that winds through the beautiful Teton mountain range. The course is open to the public and offers a pro shop, driving range, and practice facilities.
Ride the Arial Tram or Gondola in Jackson Hole
There are a few ways to see the Grand Tetons from the sky in Jackson Hole. All are at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and all have restaurants at the top.
The Aerial Tram glides skyward 4,139 vertical feet to the mountain top. The summit offers staggering 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley, and surrounding mountain ranges.The prices for the tram range from $20-$35, and you can score a discount by ordering online ahead of time.
The Bridger Gondola gives riders a 12-minute ride in a safe and private gondola cabin that whisks you more than 2,700 vertical feet above the valley floor. The Sweetwater Gondola is slightly smaller, and it ascends 1,276 feet above the valley floor.
Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole
Horseback riding is a popular activity in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with several companies offering guided tours of the surrounding area.
The horseback riding tours typically take place in the summer and fall months, when the weather is mild and the trails are open. The tours can last anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the company and the specific tour. Prices for horseback riding tours in Jackson Hole can vary, but you can expect to pay around $100-200 per person for a half-day tour, and around $200-300 per person for a full-day tour. Prices may be higher or lower depending on the length and difficulty of the tour, as well as the time of year.
Some of the companies that offer horseback riding tours in Jackson Hole include:
Year-Round Activities
People visit Jackson Hole year-round. The area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are a wide variety of activities available in each season, as well as those activities that are available all year. There is always something to do and see in Jackson Hole, no matter the time of year.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park
Best Months: September, August, June & July
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, year round
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days
Learn More…
InGrant Teton National Park, sharp mountain ranges jut up from the landscape to dwarf everything surrounding it. This mountain range is the youngest in the Rockies, lending to the sharpness of the peaks.
The Jenny Lake Visitor’s Center in the middle of the park is only 20 miles or 30 minutes north of Jackson Hole.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Best Months: May, October & September
Hours: Open 24 hours in May-September. Many roads are closed in Winter
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days
Learn More…
Yellowstonewas America’s first National Park. Rumblings of a super-volcano below the earth’s crust creates a unique landscape that millions of visitors flock to from around the world. Steam rolls from vividly colored pools, muddy cauldrons burp smelly gasses, and spouts of hot water shoot hundreds of feet into the air. This amazing park has half of the world’s geothermic features.
The entrance to South Yellowstone is about an hour to 1.5 hours north of Jackson Hole. To see the famous Old Faithful Geyser, it is another hour further into the park. Winter closures are frequent due to heavy snowfalls, and in the summer traffic congestion begins by 8-9am.
Jackson Hole Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge is a protected area located in the Jackson Hole valley of Wyoming. It is adjacent to the town of Jackson and the Jackson Hole National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established in 1912 to provide a winter habitat for the area’s elk population, which can grow to over 7,000 animals during the winter months. The refuge covers approximately 25,000 acres (10,000 hectares) and is home to a variety of other wildlife, including bison, moose, pronghorn, and a variety of birds.
Jackson Hole Rodeo
The Jackson Hole Rodeo features a variety of rodeo events, such as bull riding, bronc riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. The rodeo is held at the Teton County Fairgrounds and is organized by the Jackson Hole Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. In addition to the rodeo events, the event also includes live music, food, and other activities.
The rodeo operates Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day excluding fair week (July 24-30). There are additional rodeos every Friday in July and August, with the season ending early September.
Wyoming
FAQs
What is the best month to go to Jackson Hole Wyoming? ›
The best times to visit Jackson Hole are the months of April, May, September and October, unless you're a skier, then winter is the season for you.
How many days do you need to see Jackson Hole? ›I recommend at least three days in Jackson Hole for your first visit, though you can see a good bit of Grand Teton National Park in just a day if you're passing through on a road trip.
How far is Jackson from Grand Teton National Park? ›How long is the drive from Jackson to Grand Teton National Park? The direct drive from Jackson to Grand Teton National Park is 23.6 mi (38 km), and should have a drive time of 40 mins in normal traffic.
How far is Jackson Hole from Yellowstone? ›How far is Jackson Hole from Yellowstone? Jackson Hole is about 57 miles from Yellowstone National Park's South Entrance. The route simply follows U.S. highway 89/191 through Grand Teton National Park, offering drivers scenic mountain views all along the way.
Is Jackson Hole the same as Grand Tetons? ›Grand Teton National Park, established in 1929, lies within the scenic mountain valley known as Jackson Hole.
What is Jackson Hole famous for? ›Jackson Hole, Wyoming is a vacation destination like no other. In fact, that's what Jackson Hole is famous for—it has skiing, fishing, rafting, ranches, fine dining, and more. There's something for everyone here and that's what makes it such a well-loved vacation spot.
What is the difference between Teton Village and Jackson Hole? ›The main difference between Teton Village and Jackson are the crowds. The summer months tend to draw a larger crowd of people to the town Jackson, while Teton Village offers a much more relaxed pace. We have a wide range of vacation homes, condos and cabins in the Teton Village area to fit every budget and family size.
Can you do Grand Teton in a day? ›Grand Teton NP can be easily explored in a day and many do this in order to have more time at Yellowstone NP. But the Tetons are just as wild and beautiful and offer so much for you to enjoy.
How long is the Jackson Hole tram ride? ›Ride the Tram
Pick up your lift ticket and ascend 10,000 feet in a 9-minute ride on the tram. At the top, start your descent on skis or take in the view while enjoying a world-famous waffle.
Do I Need a Car? If you are staying in Teton Village, you will inevitably travel to downtown Jackson to shop and dine. If you are staying in town, you will need transportation to and from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Do you need a car when visiting Jackson Hole? ›
Because of the START system's convenience, the abundance of local taxi services, Uber and Lyft service and the fact that many local outfitters will pick you up from your hotel en route to the day's adventure, having a car of your own is not necessary in Jackson Hole.
Do you have to pay to drive through Teton national park? ›Entrance Fees
Entering Grand Teton National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass.
| Grand Teton National Park | ||
|---|---|---|
| Per Vehicle | Per Person | |
| Current | $30 | $15 |
| June 1, 2018 | $35 | $20 |
The best time to visit Grand Teton National Park is late spring and early summer (the end of June & beginning of July). Visitation during this time of year has not yet hit it's peak, temperatures are warm enough but still mild, and wildlife is on the move.
Is Grand Teton better than Yellowstone? ›Yellowstone has 300+ miles of paved roads, while Grand Teton only has around 152. So yes, you do have a lot more wilderness to explore in Yellowstone than in Grand Teton. But bigger isn't always better. In Yellowstone, you might spend hours just driving from one attraction to another.
How long does it take to drive the loop in Yellowstone? ›This loop connects visitors to every classic gem, from Mammoth Hot Springs near the North Entrance to Fountain Pots and Old Faithful near the West and South Entrances. Simply driving the entire distance, whether going clockwise or counter, could take four to seven hours.
Can you drive the Yellowstone loop in one day? ›It would take at least 4-5 hours to drive the Grand Loop of Yellowstone in summer, not counting road works, wildlife traffic jams, or any stops for sightseeing. We don't recommend driving the entire loop if you only have one day in Yellowstone. Instead, visit the main landmarks along the Lower Loop.
How far is Jackson Hole to the Tetons? ›Grand Teton National Park, which is less than five miles away from Jackson Hole, is currently open to visitors.
What town is closest to the Tetons? ›The closest town to Grand Teton National Park is Jackson, Wyoming. Jackson is 20 minutes away from the Moose Entrance in the southern part of Grand Teton, making it an excellent home base for any trip to Grand Teton.
Why is the Grand Teton so famous? ›Grand Teton is famous for spectacular mountain scenery and wildlife. Park boundaries include approximately 310,000 acres, 485 square miles.
What celebrity lives in Jackson Hole? ›
It's no secret that a lot of celebrities either have a home in Jackson Hole, or visit often! Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, Harrison Ford, Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt, Pippa Middleton, Tiger Woods, Uma Thurman, Matthew McConaughey have all spent time here.
Where do the Kardashians stay in Jackson Hole? ›Situated at the foot of Jackson Hole mountain, minutes away from Grand Tetons National Park, there's really no better location to explore the wonders of Wyoming. If you couldn't gather from the glimpses seen on Keeping Up with The Kardashians, Caldera House is impeccably designed.
What is the difference between Jackson Hole and Jackson Wyoming? ›“Jackson” is just one town, while “Jackson Hole” refers to the entire valley—which also includes Teton Village, Wilson, the Aspens, Moran Junction, Moose, and more. Both are named for Davey Jackson, a nineteenth-century fur trapper who was one of the first Europeans to spend a winter in the valley.
Is Jackson Hole closer to Yellowstone or Grand Teton? ›The Jackson Hole region is filled with resorts, guest ranches, and hotels, just 45 minutes from Grand Teton National Park and two hours from the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
Does Jackson Hole have a downtown? ›But the town of Jackson Hole has a lot to offer its visitors, no matter what time of year. Discover how you can spend a day in town with these top things to do in downtown Jackson Hole.
Is Jackson Hole walkable? ›Jackson Hole is probably the most popular place to stay in if you want to visit Yellowstone National Park, but the town itself has it's own unique charm. It's filled with cute shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is completely walkable.
How far apart are Yellowstone and Grand Teton? ›How to travel between Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone year-round. With only 31 miles between Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone—linked by John D. Rockefeller, Jr Memorial Parkway—it's completely possible to see both in one trip.
How long does it take to drive the Grand Teton scenic drive? ›The loop is 42 miles long, and depending on how many points of interest you chose to explore, plan for at least a one to two hour drive. Be sure to grab a map at the park entrance.
What must you see in Grand Teton in one day? ›One Day in Grand Teton: Best Things to Do
Mormon Row Historic District. Spot wildlife at Oxbow Bend. Schwabacher Landing. Jenny Lake Scenic Drive.
Cost: Tram rides $44 with reductions for those under 17 and over 65; there is a $7 discount when you purchase online. Activities range from $15 - $40. Bridger Gondola rides are $15 starting at 5 p.m. Visit jacksonhole.com for the exact summer 2022 opening dates for the lifts, activities and fees.
What is the difference between a tram and gondola at Teton Village? ›
A tram usually runs along tracks; a gondola is controlled by wires above it and is suspended off the ground.
What is the difference between a tram and a gondola? ›Although people frequently use gondolas and trams interchangeably, they are actually different systems. While a gondola uses cabins suspended from a continuously circulating cable—and usually has dozens of cabins—aerial trams use two larger cabins that simply shuttle back and forth on the cables.
What is dress code in Jackson Hole? ›Jackson Hole is a laid-back place. You can wear just about anything! We do however encourage women who must wear high heels to go with a chunkier heel. The sidewalks on our Town Square remain wooden boardwalks like in the old days.
Are there shuttles from Jackson to Teton Village? ›START Bus to and from Teton Village
Frequent buses run between Teton Village and Jackson from early morning to late night. Get the full schedule from your hotel concierge or at startbus.com. START Bus is complementary from the Teton Village Transit Center to Teton Village.
Alltrans provides daily shuttle service with one-way and round-trip fares to Flagg Ranch, the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This service connects with the Old Faithful Snow Coach and runs during the winter season from December thru March.
Can you do a day trip to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole? ›Even if you're planning to drive from Jackson to Yellowstone and back in one day, you can still pack in the major sights—just get on the road early! Here is our recommended sightseeing loop for your unforgettable Yellowstone journey. Yellowstone National Park celebrated its sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary in 2022!
What is there to do in Jackson Hole for 2 days? ›- Things to do in Jackson Hole.
- Grand Teton National Park Tours & Tickets.
- Yellowstone National Park Tours & Tickets.
- National Elk Refuge Tours & Tickets.
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Tours & Tickets.
- Jackson Hole Aerial Tram Tours & Tickets.
- Snake River Tours & Tickets.
- National Museum of Wildlife Art Tours & Tickets.
Jackson Hole has something for every nocturnal creature. Go dancing or take in some live music, meet friends for drinks and a bite or take in a play. Whether you are looking to drink a cocktail in Teton Village or hit downtown Jackson there is plenty of nightlife 7 nights a week.
Are there shuttles in Teton national park? ›Park Transportation:
We offer complimentary guest shuttle throughout the park and to the town of Jackson. Stops include Jackson Lake Lodge, Colter Bay Village, the South Jenny Lake Visitor Center, and the town of Jackson. This service is provided on a first come basis.
Entrance Reservation NOT Needed
Grand Teton does not offer entrance reservations or timed entry, so you are welcome to enter the park at anytime.
How long does it take to see Grand Teton National Park? ›
Grand Teton itineraries typically range from 1-5 days. If you are just going to drive through and see the scenic points, you can do this in a day, or even a half day. Two days will allow you to see all the scenic points and do 1-2 short hikes. We recommend 2 days for the average traveller.
What is off season in Jackson Hole? ›The shoulder seasons in Jackson Hole, or “off-seasons,” occur in the fall and springtime — between the ski-centric winters and the busy National Park summers. While things get less busy during this time, there's nothing “off” about the off-season at all.
What months does it snow in Jackson Hole Wyoming? ›| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 12.6 in | 4.6 days |
| January | 12.2 in | 3.9 days |
| February | 15.4 in | 5.1 days |
| March | 11.0 in | 4.4 days |
| Average Snowfall | Biggest Snowfall | |
|---|---|---|
| January | 100" | 27" |
| February | 107" | 24" |
| March | 66" | 23" |
| April | 13" | 14" |
The loop is 42 miles long, and depending on how many points of interest you chose to explore, plan for at least a one to two hour drive. Be sure to grab a map at the park entrance. Here are some of our favorite stops (starting at Moose).
Do I need a reservation to enter Grand Teton National Park? ›Entrance Reservation NOT Needed
Grand Teton does not offer entrance reservations or timed entry, so you are welcome to enter the park at anytime.
Jackson Hole, at the southern end of Grand Teton National Park, is the nation's wealthiest area. The average per capita income in Teton County soared to $318,297 in 2021, a leap an analyst called a “truly breathtakingly mind-blowing” increase that put the community far above any other county in the United States.
How long does it take to drive from Jackson to Yellowstone National Park? ›Time Needed: Approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes (53-miles) to drive from Jackson to the South Entrance of Yellowstone. Leave around 6 a.m. and enjoy the sunrise along the Teton Range as you drive north the entire length of Grand Teton National Park to get to Yellowstone's entrance.
What is the difference between Jackson and Jackson Hole Wyoming? ›Good question. “Jackson” is just one town, while “Jackson Hole” refers to the entire valley—which also includes Teton Village, Wilson, the Aspens, Moran Junction, Moose, and more. Both are named for Davey Jackson, a nineteenth-century fur trapper who was one of the first Europeans to spend a winter in the valley.
What is the coldest month in Wyoming? ›In January, the coldest month generally, man minimum temperatures range mostly from 5 to 10° F. In the western valleys mean values go down to about 5° below zero. The record low for the State is -66° F observed February 9, 1933, at Yellowstone Park.
Is it cold in Jackson Hole in October? ›
Fall Season: September-October
With average temperatures between 50 and 70, you can enjoy the outdoors in relative comfort. Whitewater rafting season extends into the fall, with many trips still possible well into October.
Jackson Hole is notorious for holding cold air during inversions, as cold air pools in the lowest places. Topography plays a role in maintaining temperature inversions. The mountains surrounding Jackson Hole act to corral the air, not allowing it to freely mix or drain out.
How high is the gondola at Jackson Hole? ›The 12-minute ride in a safe and private gondola cabin whisks you more than 2,700 vertical feet above the valley floor.