Located between the Teton Mountain Range and the Gros Ventre Range, Jackson Hole Valley is one of the more well-known areas of Wyoming, USA. Surrounded by the verdant trees and towering mountains, you will feel your breath taken away by every corner of natural beauty in Jackson Hole.
Pack your hiking boots and go on an adventure!So before you brush off Wyoming as a potential travel destination, consider just how much there is to do there, especially with these vacation rentals available! If you love nature, this is definitely a vacation you will not forget.
1. Hike around Grand Teton National Park
Ranked among the top 10 most visited national parks in the US, Grand Teton National Park is one of the must-sees in Wyoming. Consisting of lakes, rivers, and glaciers, the park envelops you with 360º of surreal views. From the verdant trees to the snowy mountain peaks to the dazzling lake surface, you will be stunned by the natural beauty around you.
Numerous hiking trails are available throughout the park. Some of the more popular ones include Jenny Lake Loop, Laurance Rockefeller Preserve and Oxbow Bend, the most photographed spot in the park. With various difficulties and length, you have the freedom to choose which trail best suits you and your physical abilities.
Grand Teton National Park
Address: 201 Headquarters Loop, Moose, WY 83012
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Duration: At least 1 hour *Time needed varies depending on hiking trail
Price: 30 USD (private vehicle); 15 USD (hiker/biker)
Contact: +1-307-739-3300
Website: Grand Teton National Park
2. Ski down blankets of snow at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Known for its steep terrain, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is home to one of the highest vertical drops in North America. At 4,140 feet (1,262 meters), this drop is not for the faint-hearted. The ski area covers Rendezvous and Apre Vous Mountains, creating several slopes that are perfect for skiing or snowboarding.
Because at least half the runs are considered ‘expert’ level, it is not a recommended skiing destination for beginners. However, it is great for people with some experience, especially those at an intermediate level or higher. You will not only feel adrenaline rushing through your veins as you whizz down the mountain side, but you will also get to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Address: 3265 West Village Drive Teton Village, WY 83025
Duration: At least 3 - 4 hours
Price: Varies depending on activities chosen
Contact: +1-307-733-2292
Website: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
3. Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram up Rendezvous Mountain
Since it first started operating in 1966, the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram has become an iconic symbol of the town. Even though the original tram dates back to decades ago, the one that you would ride today was only established in 2008. Taking passengers up to an elevation of 10,450 feet (3,190 meters) in 9 minutes, you will be at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (see #2) in no time.
Marvel at the spectacular views on the way up. Fitting approximately 100 people per tram, you will be taken alongside Rendezvous Mountain. At the top, you will be greeted with a range of activities you can participate in to explore the area. Between skiing or snowboarding in the winter, and hiking or paragliding during the summer, you are guaranteed an exhilarating adventure.
Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
Address: 3265 West Village Drive Teton Village, WY 83025
Duration: 9 minutes
Contact: +1-307-733-2292
Website: Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
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4. Embark on a sleigh ride at National Elk Refuge
As a protected habitat for one of the largest elk herds in the world, the National Elk Refuge is truly one-of-its-kind. Because elks retreat back to snowy regions during the summer, it is only a popular attraction during the winter. Home to an average of 7,500 elks during the cold months, you can expect to see countless elks roaming around.
Tours are offered where you can ride a horse-drawn sleigh through the refuge’s grounds. However, do note that this tour is only offered when the elks are out. This unique wildlife experience is one you wouldn’t want to miss during your visit to Jackson Hole during the winter.
National Elk Refuge
Address: 675 E. Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001
Opening Hours: 9 am - 5 pm (visitor center); sleigh rides available from 10 am - 4 pm *Hours listed above only apply to the winter season; see website for more details on summer opening hours
Duration: 9 minutes
Price: 21 USD (adults), 15 USD (kids under 12 years old)
Contact: +1-307-733-9212
Website: National Elk Refuge
5. Gather at the cultural hub of Jackson’s Town Square
Also known as the George Washington Memorial Park, the Town Square is the cultural hub of Jackson town. Filled with lots of restaurants, shops, and art galleries, you could easily spend several hours just strolling through town. It is the place to go if you need to grab a quick bite to eat before heading to your next adventure in the wilderness.
What makes Jackson’s Town Square particularly notable is its four main entrances. Featuring large arches made from elk antlers collected from the National Elk Refuge (see #5), it creates a signature Jackson Hole attraction right in the heart of town. A free walking tour of town, organized by Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum, is also offered during the summer.
Jackson’s Town Square
6. Watch a live theater show at The Jackson Hole Playhouse
Featuring a variety of plays, The Jackson Hole Playhouse is a local performing arts theater that differs from the typical outdoor activities you find there. Kick back and relax in this rustic theater; it is a great way to relax after a day of skiing, hiking, or sightseeing in the area.
Housed in the oldest building in town, this experience is one you will never forget. Each production at The Jackson Hole Playhouse is executed flawlessly, and has been compared to Broadway, but on a much smaller scale. An optional dinner is available within the theater to accompany the show. While you are allowed to skip dinner if you desire, it is recommended for you to attend the dinner to get the complete experience.
The Jackson Hole Playhouse
Address: 145 W. Deloney Avenue Jackson, WY 83001
Opening Hours: Dinner starts at 5 pm or 6.30 pm; show starts at 8 pm
Duration: At least 2 hours
Price: 65 USD (dinner & show); 35 USD (show only) *Cheaper prices available for kids; see website for more details
Contact: +1-307-733-6994
Website: The Jackson Hole Playhouse
7. Witness a live rodeo event at Jackson Hole Rodeo
Have you ever wanted to attend a rodeo? This classic American activity can only be witnessed in certain parts of the US, and Wyoming just happens to be one of them. At Jackson Hole Rodeo, you will be given an opportunity to experience the region’s cowboy culture that has existed for over a century.
Shows typically only run during the summer, from May to September. During the peak months of June to August, rodeo shows occur around 2 - 4 times a week, giving you plenty of time to attend one during your visit. No matter how short or how long you are in Jackson Hole for, there is no excuse to avoid this activity. It is a fun way to feel an adrenaline rush without having to be physically active, almost like watching a sports game.
Jackson Hole Rodeo
Address: 447 W. Snow King Ave, Jackson Hole, WY 83001
Opening Hours: Shows start at 8 pm *Check website for details on show dates
Duration: At least 2 hours
Price: From 20 USD (adults), 15 USD (kids under 15 years old)
Contact: +1-307-733-7927
Website: Jackson Hole Rodeo
8. Join a horseback riding tour with Swift Creek Outfitters & Teton Horseback Adventures
Horseback riding is a popular tourist activity in Wyoming. It provides you with a great local experience, while allowing to enjoy amazing mountain views. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced horse rider, Jackson Hole is filled with vast patches of grass and empty land, making it the perfect place to go for horse riding.
Many tour companies, including Swift Creek Outfitters & Teton Horseback Adventures, offer horseback riding tours. Taking you through the Teton Wilderness, you will get to admire some of the most scenic views in the world. You have the option to choose between a day trip or a 1- to 5-night trip, depending on your itinerary. Multi-day trips include horse riding, camping, fishing, and more. Whichever you decide on, you are sure to have a blast.
Swift Creek Outfitters & Teton Horseback Adventures
Address: 180 W. Powerline Rd, Pavillion, WY 82523
Opening Hours: 7.30 am - 4 pm
Duration: At least 1 hour
Price: From 45 USD
Access: 38 miles (61.2 kilometers) north of Jackson Hole
Contact: +1-307-856-1226
Website: Swift Creek Outfitters & Teton Horseback Adventures
9. Relax your muscles at Granite Hot Springs
Sit back and unwind as water comes tumbling down from the mountain side into the pool at Granite Hot Springs. This beautiful hot spring is the perfect place to relax your muscles while enjoying the great views around you. Nothing beats taking a dip in warm water, especially during the winter months. You get to stay outdoors to appreciate the cold weather without completely freezing.
It is possible to hike or drive to the hot springs. Even though driving is less exhausting, be prepared to encounter bumpy and gravelly roads all the way. Despite everything, Granite Hot Springs is still worth a visit. The experience of this natural beauty is not something you will find anywhere else, and a trip is highly recommended if you find yourself with some extra time.
Granite Hot Springs
Address: 180 W. Powerline Rd, Pavillion, WY 82523
Opening Hours: 10 am - 6 pm (April to October), 10 am - 4 pm (December to March)
Price: 6 USD
Access: Hiking or driving during summer; snowmobiling or sledding during winter
Contact: +1-307-690-6323
Website: Granite Hot Springs
10. Take a day trip to Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is easily the most famous national park in the USA. Located primarily within Wyoming, Yellowstone actually extends into the neighboring states of Montana and Idaho as well. It has also been recognized as one of the world’s first national parks.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, Yellowstone National Park is a nature-lover’s oasis. Recreational tourist activities during the summer months include hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. And during the winter, guided tours on snowmobiles are available for you to explore the park. But the one thing you cannot miss here is Old Faithful Geyser. Erupting water up to 185 feet (56 meters), this geyser is one of the most popular features in the park and definitely worth a visit.
Yellowstone National Park
Address: 2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Duration: Around 1 day
Price: 30 USD (private vehicle); 15 USD (biker / hiker)
Access: Hiking or driving during summer; snowmobiling or sledding during winter
Contact: +1-307-344-7381
Website: Yellowstone National Park
Still wondering WY you should visit Jackson Hole?
Wyoming might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip within the US. But there is actually a lot to more to do in Jackson Hole than meets the eye. With some of the most magnificent views you will ever encounter, this is the place to go if you’re seeking a peaceful retreat. You can appreciate the vast lands and distinct natural beauty of the countryside from here. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you are sure to have a blast adventuring through the great outdoors.
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