Jackson Hole Travel Guide

Skiing is what Jackson Hole is most famous for, boasting three world-class resorts. Fondly referred to as the “Last of the Old West, Jackson Hole also has a real frontier cowboy vibe, complete with a wooden boardwalk town square home to authentic cowboy saloons and a rodeo. Not to mention, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are additionally on the doorstep here.

Things to Do in Jackson Hole

Visit the true heart of Jackson Hole at the Town Square, where the boardwalks are made of wooden planking and the four main entrances are decorated with elk antlers shaped into large arches, collected from the local Elk refuge. The square is also where you'll find the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and the Silver Dollar Bar, two famed venues to sip on a beer and watch the Western swing dances. There are also many boutiques, stores and restaurants in the vibrant, bustling square. The town also has a growing reputation as an artistic hub, with many galleries plus its own annual Arts Festival.

There are plenty of hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, river rafting and kayaking do be done in the nearby national parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Immerse yourself in the magnificent scenery, and try spotting animals like bison, moose, wolves, bears and bighorn sheep. The National Elk Refuge is home to free roaming elk and the largest bison herds in the country.

If you're visiting in winter, skiing and other snow activities take place at Snow King, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (ranked number one in North America several times in a row) and Grand Targhee Resort. Each are known for their own specific characteristics and depending on your skill and needs, you'll find something special at each venue.

Best Time to Visit Jackson Hole

Visiting Jackson Hole in each season brings something different. Try winter for skiing, dog sled rides and snowmobiling. Spring is magical for wildlife and nature lovers, while summer brings warm days on the lakes. With fall comes the promise of snowy winter around the corner but still with a very mild climate and fewer crowds.

A Local's Guide to Jackson Hole

Combine cowboys and skiing and you have the unique combination that makes up Jackson Hole. The town has a real frontier cowboy vibe, with a wooden boardwalk and authentic cowboy saloons. Located high in the mountains, rentals in Jackson Hole is a popular vacation destination.

One of the biggest draws to the town is its proximity to national parks -- Yellowstone National Park being the most famous of these. As the oldest national park in the world, Yellowstone has a lot to offer, and one of its entrances is just 90 miles from Jackson Hole Wyoming. It is not uncommon to see a range of wildlife including bison, elk, wolves, moose and bears here, however most people come to see the natural wonders created by the ancient super volcano it sits on.

The town of Jackson is ideally located near the entrance to Grand Teton. Grand Teton National Park is often described as one of the most awe-inspiring places in America, home to the impressive Teton mountain range. Peaks rise as high as 7,000 feet, with Rendezvous mountain being particularly spectacular. Although visitors can admire the park from the road, it is best explored on foot. Another popular attraction is the National Elk Refuge, filled with literally thounds of the majestic creature.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the main winter ski and snowboard resort in the area, and offers over 2,500 acres of skiing terrain, arguably some of the best in North America. The resort is open in both summer and winter, and operations include the aerial tram and lift access to the area’s activities. Some of the most popular activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, heli and cat skiing, sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, winter bike tours, paragliding, aerial adventures, wildlife tours and white-water rafting down Snake River to name just a few. Snow King Resort is another great option when it comes to winter sports.

Every season is different in Jackson Hole, so whether you are looking to get a rental home in winter, spring, summer or fall, you are sure to have a great vacation. In the winter, the most popular activity is skiing, but for those who want to try a different snowy activity, sled rides and snowmobiling are also great options. In the spring as some of the snow starts to melt, nature really comes to life in Jackson Hole, and it's one of the best times you can spot some of the area’s native wildlife. In summer, visitors use the warmer days for relaxing around the lake, and as fall starts to settle in you can watch the colors changing and really enjoy the town center with far fewer crowds.

Jackson Hole vacation rentals provide all the comforts of home, but with the mountains right on your doorstep. The majority of properties are just minutes away from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, some are ski in/ski out, and close to all of the other major sights and attractions. Kitchens are well-equipped and some lodging offers hot tubs or a pool and ski storage, making for the perfect vacation home.

Hotels are also plentiful in Jacksonville Hole, providing an incredible choice of lodging. There are options for every budget, whether you are looking for a luxury resort or a small family-run hotel, Jackson Hole has it all. Staying slope-side in Teton Village means that you will be nearer to all the winter activity, or alternatively, immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of downtown. A Jackson Hole vacation is a great option for both family and friends.

Cabins in Jackson Hole

Discover beautiful Jackson Hole, WY and experience the best of the Old West. Find the perfect, relaxing vacation home and enjoy the good things in life at nearby cabin rentals. Log cabins can feature a hot tub, full kitchens, and WiFi to keep you connected during your stay. A lively town bordered by Grand Teton National Park, make Jackson Hole Mountain Resort your basecamp and get your fill of natural Wyoming in this convenient location. At the bottom of the resort, you’ll find Teton Village which features restaurants, après-ski bars, live music, shops and services to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Just a short walk from your vacation rental, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature. Float on the Snake River, located steps from Fireside Resort or take a quick drive to nearby National Elk Refuge or Slide Lake for sleigh and horseback rides. 90 miles north of Jackson, you’ll find the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Wind through the grand loop; staying on the lookout for wildlife and picturesque viewpoints. Close to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, you’ll also find nearby Colter Bay. Kayak, swim, hike or ski, no matter the season, Colter Bay has an activity for you to enjoy.