Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole, WY

  • Published 2022/10/12

Jackson Hole is nestled between the Gros Ventre and Teton mountain ranges.

The “hole” was a term traditionally used by early inhabitants to mean a high valley bordered by towering ranges.

Here, you’ll see the most enthralling natural beauty.

Rivers and streams abound, as do all the other natural resources.

This place is great for all nature lovers and those looking for peace in nature.

It also offers many adventurous activities, so don’t worry about being just stuck in Zen mode.

Interested to know more about this place?

Here are the 25 best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming:

Get in Touch with Mother Nature at Grand Teton National Park

Scenic View of Grand Teton National Park

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Spread over an extensive area of 310,000 acres, this is one of the havens to visit for nature lovers.

The Grand Teton peak towers at the height of 13,700 feet and is a sight to behold.

The other low-lying mountain ranges around are also as beautiful as this beauty.

Another fun experience would be landing at the airport inside this immense territory.

One of the few airports located inside a National park, Grand Teton surely stands up to its grand name.

The rich history of the mountains is another aspect that will leave you filled with wonder.

It is believed to be the ancestral homes of the Paleo-Indians about 11,000 years ago!

Grand Teton National Park

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The Snake River snakes through the park along with other pristine lakes.

There are many native plants, birds, and mammals like moose, bears, elks, bison, and more in the park perimeter.

The fascinating species you will witness here will surely leave you breathless.

Hiking trails extend up to 200 miles, so don’t forget your boots.

Grand Teton National Park

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Bird watching and nature trails are other favorite pastimes for visitors.

You can also drive around the large perimeters to enjoy many attractions in a short time.

Skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Mountain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

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One of the most popular and famous ski resorts in North America is the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Catering to all ages and types, it is a fairyland to learn and practice some great skiing moves.

Two thousand five hundred acres of trails, with almost 400 inches of snowfall during prime time, ensures that you get the best experience at skiing.

So, if you want to try out this fun sport, make sure to visit only during the winter months.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

CSNafzger / shutterstock.com

But this fantastic resort is a fun place during summer as well.

It miraculously converts into a great place for sports like mountain biking and paragliding.

Another attraction tourists swear by is the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

Located about nine minutes’ drive away, the breathtaking view is sure to stay with you.

Gaze at the Stunning Paintings at Astoria Fine Art

Astoria Fine Art, situated in the city’s downtown, features award-winning and museum-bound painters, both alive and deceased.

With its reputation for high-quality work in both classic and modern styles, this Jackson Hole art gallery is one of the most notable in town.

The store is open seven days a week.

If you’d like to sell some of the artwork in your collection, they may also assist you.

Additionally, they regularly acquire and consign works by well-known contemporary and historical painters in addition to the excellent artists that they represent themselves.

Free appraisals and financial advice are available from these professionals.

They also provide advisory services for art collections.

Meet and Greet with Elks at the National Elk Refuge

Els at National Elk Refuge in the Snow

Reimar / shutterstock.com

Meet one of the most massive but docile members of the deer community—that is, elks.

These animals are so magnificent to look at, with their large antlers and heavy furs.

The sanctuary is a non-enclosed territory and abounds with these species during the winter months.

Due to food scarcity and easy availability in these limits, elks are abundant in winters.

National Elk Refuge

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You can opt for trekking through the area for elk sightings or take a sleigh ride.

During the winter months, guided sleigh tours are available, which lets you roam the sanctuary with speed and also helps you get up close and personal with these friendly giants.

Take a Stroll at the Jackson Town Square

Stores at Jackson Town Square

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The city’s prime spot is also a great spot to start your tour.

With accessible routes to the nearby national parks, the Town Square can be a great starting point.

The giant antlers arch at its entrance is great for an Instagram post.

Here, you may stroll around the alleys and at the boutique stores.

Jackson Town Square

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There are also various stores selling souvenirs like T-shirts, art pieces, and more.

This can then be followed by a quick authentic American bite at the many restaurants or cafes lining the streets nearby.

Another adorable attraction here is the small-sized ice skating rink.

Learn the History of Jackson Hole at the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum

Front View of Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum

Miguel Hermoso Cuesta, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum can be visited just after covering the town square.

As you finish shopping for the souvenirs, you might want to know more about the history of this town, so this is the best spot to visit.

The exhibits showcased here include Jackson Hole itself, the Grand Teton National Park, the Yellowstone national park, and more.

There are also other exhibits on display showing this area’s rich history from the earliest times.

Book a Dog Sled Tour with the Jackson Hole Iditarod Dog Sled Tours

Dogs and sleds are such a cute combination that you can hardly resist.

Enjoy a sled ride as huskies pull you down the snow-covered hills.

The snow-covered hills and the cold weather do not affect these fierce but cute dogs as they pull you down the valley.

The trail covers the valley from Jackson Hole to Granite Hot Springs, and the dogs are trained Alaskan dogs suited to endure the weather conditions.

The tour is accompanied by a guide who will explain all the places of interest on the way and point out other wildlife.

The tours can be taken for half-day or full-day.

Enjoy Theater at the Jackson Hole Playhouse

Front View of Jackson Hole Playhouse

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This playhouse is situated inside one of the oldest buildings in Jackson, giving it a unique appeal.

The shows that are played are of high quality.

Though it’s comparatively smaller in size, the small dinner theater makes sure its food and the shows are extravagant.

Take a Warm, Relaxing Bath at the Granite Hot Springs

Two People Swimming at Granite Hot Springs

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As emphasized above, nature is one of the biggest gifts given to this city.

Located in the Gros Ventre Range, these hot springs are the perfect example of this beauty.

The springs spout hot water, ranging from 93 degrees to 112 degrees depending on the season.

Settle inside and enjoy some scenic views of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, as well as the hills around the springs.

After you spend some time in nirvana and soak yourself in these warm waters, you can also try out some hiking and snowshoeing at the various trails present in this area.

Though the road leading upwards is a little hectic to climb and undeveloped, the springs are definitely worth the time and effort.

Witness the Jackson Hole Rodeo

It’s been more than a century since the first cowboy immigrants in Jackson, Wyoming, brought rodeo with them.

Without taking in the world-famous Jackson Hole Rodeo, your trip to Jackson Hole would be incomplete.

First residents arrived in Jackson Hole in 1890, when Sylvester Wilson led the first party of people across Teton Pass.

He and his family moved to the valley to herd cattle on the lush grass.

Over 120 years and six generations later, the pioneer spirit goes on–the Wilson family welcomes you to join them as they continue the western tradition.

Rodeo in Jackson Hole is also a three-generation family tradition, going back to Clark Wheeldon’s days of riding broncos in the rodeo in Wilson.

They still participate in the Jackson Hole Rodeo team roping competition.

Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art

View of Statues at National Museum of Wildlife Art

Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com

The artifacts in the National Museum of Wildlife Art include as many as 5,000 works of wildlife art from artists all over the world, each of which is as beautiful as nature.

A major attraction is the Sculpture Trail, which is an outdoor art.

Elks in various poses traveling on the rugged terrain are featured, and it’s almost as real as it gets.

The exhibits are therefore stunning and will make you fall in love with nature all over again.

Celebrate Artistry at Center for the Arts

This art center aims to make Jackson Hole a cultural hub by embracing principles such as conservation, quality, inclusivity, and innovation.

In 1991, Jackson-based arts groups, artists, and concerned community members realized that Jackson Hole’s local arts organizations were in danger due to rising rents in insufficient premises.

A shared facility was conceived due to a $1,000 donation from the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole.

An art center in Jackson was deemed necessary after a five-year review of the city’s requirements, existing facilities, location selection, feasibility, and economic effect.

The Center for the Arts, a 78,000 square foot campus, serves Jackson Hole and the surrounding area by pursuing its goal inside the center’s walls.

Snowboarding at Snow King Resort

snow at Snow King Resort

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Though the resort is mainly famous for skiing, it is also an excellent place for snowboarding and tubing.

The resort is spread over a large area and has 400 acres covered under its skiing terrain.

For the more adventurous souls, a night skiing option is also available.

But this resort mainly focuses on moderate to challenging levels.

You can visit the Grand Targhee Resort, which is mentioned below, for your needs.

This resort is special since it was Wyoming’s first established ski resort.

Flock to the Grand Targhee Resort

People Skiing at Grand Targhee Resort

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The resort has two entire Teton Mountains inside its large 2,500 acres of perimeter, so you will be spoilt for choice.

Specifically suitable for beginners in skiing, this resort has become a favorite with families.

Moreover, ski lessons are also available if you are new to the sport.

Since it’s a relatively new resort, there are fewer crowds.

But if you are really into skiing, the difficult sloping terrain will surely excite you.

If possible, you may ask assistance from an on-site naturalist who will explain the geography and terrain before you attempt to ski.

Horseback Riding at One of the Many Ranches

A Horse in one of the Ranches at Jackson Hole

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Jackson Hole also offers a great experience if you love horseback riding.

Make sure you book at least one of the many tours available here.

The ranches include the Heart Six Ranch, Mill Iron Ranch, and Spring Creek Ranch.

We would definitely recommend the last one since spring creek is located near Jackson town and the Snake River.

Thus, it has a great view as you gallop away.

Jackson Hole is also a town famous for its cowboys and horses and rich influence on history.

Thus, horseback riding is one of the many experiences that deserves an absolute experience.

You can choose from various schedules, be it half-day, full-day, or even overnight trips.

So get ready for a great countryside adventure with your family or friends.

Ride the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain

The Cowboy Coaster is a high-altitude mountain roller coaster like no other.

Almost a mile of loops, twists, and hairpin turns await downhill skiers and snowboarders as they drop the equivalent of a 45-story structure.

If you dare to look up throughout your incredible, pace-your-own-pace journey at Jackson’s most exhilarating new attraction, you’ll see magnificent Teton Views.

Between the rise and descent, the ride takes 5.5 minutes and reaches a maximum speed of 25 mph.

The winter it’s a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Float Trip Down the Snake River

Scenic View of Snake River

Dean Fikar / shutterstock.com

A relaxing float bobbing down the calm currents of the Snake River is something that you really would not want to miss out on.

Here, you’ll see the scenic riverside views, which will make you feel calm and refreshed.

Another enjoyable sport on the Snake River is whitewater rafting.

For some great adventure and thrill, this is the sport you should go for.

Snake River

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Fly fishing is another quirky sport that you can try your hands on.

With the native species of cutthroat trout that thrives in the river, fishing is surely a quirky thing to try out.

The best part is anyone can try this, be it a novice or an expert.

Try Paddling Adventure with O.A.R.S. Yellowstone Tours

If you are bored of the same old safaris and want to experience nature in a different style, then try out these paddling adventures on Jackson Lake.

With campsites provided onsite, you can book an overnight excursion as well.

Paddle along the geothermal waters in Yellowstone Park with your children and spouse.

The scenic mountainside views and green trees on the riverside will fill you with enthralling beauty.

Thus, Jackson Hole is a really special place and has nature’s most important jewel.

Natural beauty will always leave you astonished, and the picturesque countrysides at Jackson Hole will fill you with a sense of wonder.

Enjoy being one with nature and gazing at a variety of wildlife species and different types of plants and trees.

The museums are also a great tribute to the rich history of this area and do give them a shot to learn some interesting facts about this city.

So, what are your reasons to wait?

Go book your tickets to this awesome place soon!

See a Stunning Photograph Collection at Mangelsen Images of Nature Gallery

Thomas D. Mangelsen, an internationally acclaimed nature and wildlife photographer has a gallery in Jackson Hole dedicated to his work.

Mangelsen, a naturalist who has traveled the world for 45 years, has taken breathtaking photographs of some of the planet’s most stunning landscapes.

The gallery is one of the most incredible places to buy amazing photos in Wyoming, so make sure to include it on your schedule.

The gallery’s collections include prints for Mangelsen’s use, limited editions, and a unique reserve displayed for visitors to marvel over.

Birds, landscapes, animals, and other forms of nature are just a few of Mangelsen’s numerous recurring themes.

Mangelsen Images of Nature Gallery is worth a trip if you’re interested in nature photography, whether to appreciate the work or to add to your collection with a print or two.

Play Ball Games with Your Kids at Phil Baux Park

Parking sign at Phil Baux Park

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Phil Baux Park, at the foot of Snow King Mountain, is a great spot to keep kids busy while their parents enjoy a day on the slopes.

The park has a horseshoe pit, a playground set, and boulder walls for rock climbing.

Enjoy your family’s packed lunch in the park’s picturesque setting at one of the numerous picnic tables or shelters.

There is an open green area for recreational activities at Phil Baux Park, including playground equipment, climbing boulders, and a swing set.

Bring the kids and some ball games (soccer, football, frisbee, tug-of-war, etc.) and spend the day in the park.

You can’t find a better site than this cute park to let the kids run about and burn off some energy.

Learn Wildlife Preservation at Teton Raptor Center

The field biologists of Teton National Park founded Teton Raptor Center in 1991.

The center initially intended to care for sick or injured raptors, but today it treats approximately 150 birds yearly.

The facility’s popularity allowed it to evolve into a hub for learning and discovery.

Those interested in raptor education and interaction can participate in live programs and encounters at the facility.

Visiting the center is an excellent idea if you’re looking for something fun to do in Wyoming but are at a loss for ideas.

A raptor experience lasts 50 minutes and allows guests to get up close and personal with three real raptors while learning fascinating facts about these magnificent birds.

It’s possible to have exclusive access to the attraction’s inner workings during interactions.

Teton Raptor Center is a must-see if you want a one-of-a-kind experience learning about and appreciating Wyoming’s wildlife.

Go Trekking toward Marion Lake

Marion Lake is one of several Jackson Hole attractions you won’t want to miss.

Starting in Teton Village, near the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, this trek takes you back to Marion Lake in Grand Teton National Park.

The lake is magnificent, with a surface height of almost 9,000 feet and 751 feet.

Nearly four miles round trip, the journey to Marion Lake is arduous but well worth it for the stunning scenery.

The lake’s location atop higher mountain slopes gives it a unique character, making it subalpine.

Given the location of this lake, getting there will require a challenging climb.

Wildflowers in July make for a particularly stunning sight, but any time of year is fine for a visit.

Go Practice Shooting at Jackson Hole Shooting Experience

At the Jackson Hole Shooting Experience, Wyoming tourists may learn to handle and shoot weapons.

Expert shooting coaches teach guests gun safety, shooting, and marksmanship.

Note that skill development programs might include one-time private instruction or weekly classes.

You can use your own or rented handguns, carbies, and long-range rifles with coaches.

The Jackson Hole Shooting Experience is a great way to learn or practice shooting.

Aside from access to weapons, ammo, eye/ear protection, and targets, you will also undergo coaching.

The site also provides refreshments and finger foods.

Other Things to Do Nearby

See the Wildlife Safari at Yellowstone National Park

Unique colors in Yellowstone National Park

Lorcel / shutterstock.com

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous parks in the United States.

It has a lot of different species of animals thriving in its periphery.

Enjoy a great guided safari tour where you can observe animals up close!

This is especially a recommendation if you are visiting with kids.

They will love looking at all the animals lazing in their natural habitat.

Final Thoughts

The ideal time to visit Jackson Hole depends on what you want to do while you are there.

Everything about each season is a little bit different.

While some revel in the white wonderland of a snowy winter, others look forward to summer flowers and riverside days.

It is a luxury enjoyed by the optimistic inhabitants, and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you want to experience the same thing, make Jackson Hole your next holiday destination!

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