Jackson Hole is a 48-mile long valley along the Teton Mountain Range, with Grand Teton National Park in its northwestern section and Yellowstone National Park just two hours away. The convenient Jackson Hole Airport, the only airport in the world situated within a national park, makes Jackson Hole the starting point for many visitors to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. The town is also an ideal place to head after exploring the national parks, with restaurants, lodging, activities, and attractions that continue the fun and adventure. In summer, winter, or in between, there’s much to do in the Jackson Hole area. Whether you’re after an active day or one with time to relax and enjoy the scenery, you’ll find exactly what you want.
Winter in Jackson Hole
Fans of Yellowstone and Grand Teton enjoy visiting in winter for views of wildlife, geysers, mountain peaks, and snowy scenery in relative solitude. Snowmobiles, snowcoaches, and van tours make it convenient and comfortable, and a day in nearby Jackson Hole offers opportunities for a range of outdoor and indoor activities.
Active pursuits include skiing and snowboarding at three Jackson Hole resorts with terrain suited for beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers. At Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, skiers have eight chairlifts, a gondola, and the Big Red aerial tram. Snow King, steps from downtown Jackson, offers skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, tubing, and night skiing. Grand Targhee with snowcat skiing, tubing, fat tire biking, and family activities is a little more than an hour from the town of Jackson. Choose one of the ski resorts for a day in the snow.
If your idea of winter activities consists of gazing at snow over a hot toddy or cocoa, Jackson Hole has something for you too. You can spend a day getting pampered at a spa. Enjoy the view from the River Spa at the Snake River Lodge & Spa after your massage, facial, or sauna. Browse art galleries or boutiques and take home Southwest-inspired souvenirs or handcrafts. Consider venturing out for a sleigh ride for some winter atmosphere in a horse drawn carriage. Snuggle under a blanket as you pass snow covered hills, wildlife, and Jackson Hole’s magnificent scenery.
Jackson Hole in Summer
The most popular time to visit the national parks is summer, when families have time to explore together. A day in Jackson Hole before setting out to Yellowstone or Grand Teton would be a perfect start to a summer vacation. When the snow melts, the hills are green and the days are long. You have many ways to spend your perfect day in Jackson Hole.
Explore nature and wildlife on a hike, with trails ranging from beginner level to challenging. Opportunities to spend time on the water in a canoe, kayak, or boat are plenty in Jackson Hole. Jackson Lake in the middle of Grand Teton National Park, Snake River, and String Lake are just a few of the local bodies of water, with tours and rentals available. Fly fishing is a popular summer pastime as well. Rent a bicycle or mountain bike to take advantage of Jackson Hole’s many cross country and mountain trails. Golf and tennis fans will find scenic courses and courts for a change of pace after exploring the national parks. See the Jackson Hole area in true Western style on horseback, with trail rides through the mountains and meadows.
For a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery, glide over it in a hot air balloon or a scenic airplane flight. If you would prefer to stay closer to the ground, take a ride in a covered wagon and relive the Old West mode of transportation—with quite a bit more comfort than the early settlers experienced. Camping and its new upscale version, “glamping,” are available in various Jackson Hole locales, affording an opportunity to enjoy nature up close and personal.
Where to Stay
From campsites to luxury lodging, Jackson Hole has a range of places to stay. Four Seasons Resort and Residences, an American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts property, offers lodge-style guest rooms and private retreats with views of mountain peaks from its valley location. Amangani Jackson Hole boasts a heated infinity pool, spa, fitness center, and magnificent views of the Grand Tetons and Snake River Range. The intimate and luxurious Rusty Parrot Lodge offers plush rooms and suites as well as concierge service. Hotel Terra in Teton Village features a rooftop spa, two restaurants, lounge, and award-winning ambience. The Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa is set slopeside, combining rustic style and modern comfort. The Snake River Sporting Club offers a variety of accommodations and more activities than you can fit into one day, but think about golf, tennis, spa, and fishing in summer or skiing, ice skating, or dog sledding in winter.
Visit Jackson Hole for a Day—or Stay Longer
Jackson Hole Airport is served by United, Delta, American, and Frontier Airlines with connections through most major cities. Auto rentals, taxi service, Uber, Lyft, and private transportation are available.
You can also travel to Jackson Hole in luxury and convenience with a Rendezvous Jet Card from PJS Private Jet Services. Benefits include complimentary skiing and access to unique experiences that include glider flights over the Tetons, dog-sledding, whitewater rafting, golf, and private tours.
However you get to Jackson Hole for your perfect day there, you’ll probably find that you don’t want to leave after just twenty-four hours. Remember that you can always return for a longer stay on your next visit.
