Curator’s statement
Few places are more glorious in summer than Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Adjacent to Grand Teton National Park, this valley between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges is blessed with some of the most majestic scenery in the lower 48. Warm, sunny days and chilly nights make for an outdoor adventure paradise, while the once-quaint cowboy town of Jackson offers a host of sophisticated dining and shopping. Whether you have just a few days or a whole month to spare, you’ll never run out of things to do and you’ll likely start planning your next visit to the Tetons before you leave.
While winter sport enthusiasts revere Jackson Hole for cold-weather recreation, I prefer Jackson Hole in the summer. The bitter cold has abated, wildflowers bloom on the mountainsides and trout jump in the rivers. Hiking trails abound in Jackson, Wilson and Teton Village, before you even enter Grand Teton National Park and explore its vast trail network. The Snake River swells with the runoff of melted snow, yielding opportunities to fly fish, whitewater raft or simply float along and enjoy the views. Wildlife is everywhere, particularly in the national park, and you’ll see creatures great and small, from bison to mountain goats to grizzly bears.
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Things to do in Jackson Hole
Grand Teton National Park
For my clients, I’ll create a comprehensive park itinerary. My go-to recommendations for first timers are:
Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle + Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Hike: Ideal for younger children, older adults or a low impact day. Hop on a shuttle boat across the lake, hike one mile to Hidden Falls and continue half a mile to Inspiration Point.
Phelps Lake Hike + the Jumping Rock Hike: A moderate, seven-mile loop around a beautiful alpine lake, punctuated with a thrilling cliff jump. Bring a towel! I recommend parking at the Laurence D. Rockefeller Preserve to access this hike.
Taggart Lake Loop: Close to the southernmost park entrance in Moose, this roughly four-mile scenic loop around is a great half-day activity or picnic trek.
Snake River float trip / white water fafting
A float trip on the Snake River is a beautiful and relaxing way to experience this gorgeous area. You’ll meander through stunning scenery and see wildlife along the way. Several outfitters offer this experience, including Teton Floats and Dave Hansen Whitewater. For those looking for a little more adrenaline on the water, Jackson Hole is well known for its epic whitewater rafting adventures. Teton Whitewater and Mad River are among the most experienced whitewater outfitters.
Fly fishing
Jackson Hole summer lures fly fishermen from around the globe. Whether you’re an expert angler or a newbie, I’d be happy to connect you with the right choice of vetted guides for your trip and experience level. A great place to start for kids and first timers is the Jackson Hole Fly Fishing School. I’ve also had several terrific days on the water with World Cast Anglers.
Jackson Hole Rodeo
The West is Still Wild is the slogan for this local rodeo that has been going strong since 1890. 8pm, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend – Labor Day.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Ride the red aerial tram and have a waffle at the top, head out on the Sky Walk at the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, then have fun with all the typical ski village activities – ropes course, bungee jumping, rock wall. There’s plenty to do here to fill up an afternoon.
Snow King Mountain
Ride the cowboy coaster, enjoy views from the ski lift and pick a hiking trail. Snow King sits at the edge of downtown Jackson and is a popular summer activity zone, especially for families.
National Museum of Wildlife Art
The only museum in the country exclusively focused on wildlife art, exhibits range from life-sized bronze sculptures, to photography, to abstract and realistic paintings. The permanent collection includes pieces by Carl Rungius, Georgia O’Keefe, and Andy Warhol.
Teton Raptor Center
I had a blast taking my kids to the Raptor Center in Wilson. The educational programs are an interactive and fun way to learn about these magnificent creatures. Program reservations required.
Places to eat & drink in Jackson Hole
Persephone
Elevated bakery with three locations, offering breakfast and lunch. A great to-go option!
The Bunnery
Breakfast at the Bunnery is a JH tradition, and gives the energy you need for a day of hiking and biking.
Blue Lion
One of Jackson’s original and best fine dining institutions. The elk tenderloin is a top dining memory.
Trio
Sophisticated contemporary menu in a relaxed setting. Also consider their sister steakhouse, Local.
Kampai
The latest addition to Jackson’s surprisingly excellent upscale sushi scene.
Snake River Brewing
Serving local beers and terrific food for 30 years, in downtown Jackson.
The Bird
Just south of town, this is a favorite casual spot for burgers and beers after a hike or day on the water.
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
You didn’t really hit the town in Jackson if you didn’t go to this OG saloon and music venue.
Need to know
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Jackson Hole. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Long Weekend: Vancouver.
Travel Advisor
Catherine Kinsey
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