Grand Teton Archives » Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide https://localadventurer.com/category/north-america/usa/grand-teton-national-park/ Moving to a New City Every Year to Explore like a Local Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:49:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 11+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Winter https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-jackson-hole-wyoming-in-the-winter/ https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-jackson-hole-wyoming-in-the-winter/#respond Wed, 17 Feb 2021 13:30:14 +0000 https://localadventurer.com/?p=64946 Visiting Jackson Hole in the winter? Don’t miss these amazing activities. This was the first trip we’ve taken by plane in over a year, so we were a little anxious, but in hindsight, we’re so glad we did the trip. Most of the activities were outside and felt completely safe, and we learned the more […]

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Visiting Jackson Hole in the winter? Don’t miss these amazing activities.

This was the first trip we’ve taken by plane in over a year, so we were a little anxious, but in hindsight, we’re so glad we did the trip. Most of the activities were outside and felt completely safe, and we learned the more you plan ahead, the safer it is.

We’ve been to Jackson Hole in the summer and fall, but this time we wanted to see the winter wonderland the locals kept talking about.

After spending three days knee-deep in snow, we absolutely love it and can’t wait to be back. Grand Teton National Park felt so much quieter and we saw more wildlife than all our previous trips combined.

If you plan on traveling here this season, we put together a guide of the best things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in the winter.

11+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Winter

A big thank you to Visit Jackson Hole for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 1, 2025

15 Amazing Things to Do in Jackson Hole in the Winter

1. Grand Teton National Park →

43.7618739,-110.7887954, map

You can’t visit the Jackson Hole area without seeing Grand Teton National Park. If you fly in, you actually land inside the park! Because of the weather during our visit, we weren’t able to see the mountain peaks, but there are plenty of activities to do and the park is completely transformed in the winter. If you’re really lucky, you’ll get both the snowy landscape and the Tetons.

Local Tip: Roads and pull-outs are limited in the winter so be sure you know what your options are before heading in.

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

Moulton Barn Winter

2. Yellowstone National Park →

43.7618739,-110.7887954, map

Yellowstone National Park is also close by, but if you want to visit, you will need to do some planning ahead of time. They close the closest park entrances to vehicles during the winter so you will only be able to see the park through tours.

See More: Best Things to do in Yellowstone National Park + Essential Tips for Your Visit

Yellowstone Snowmobile Lottery + 11 Most Difficult National Park Lotteries // Local Adventurer

3. Wildlife Tours

650 W Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001, map

Since our time was limited and we weren’t familiar with the terrain in snow, we decided to take a tour with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris (JHWS) to increase our chances to see wildlife.

We’ve done a fair share of wildlife viewing over the years, which can always be hit or miss. On this trip, we saw moose, bison, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, and elk on our half-day safari. Either we were really lucky, or our tour guides know their wildlife (probably both).

JHWS is the only tour company that completely focuses on wildlife, although there are other companies that offer similar wildlife and other scenic tours in Jackson Hole. And because they have a network of guides and are spending time in the park every day, they are able to share info with each other and know the pattern of how the animals move. It’s amazing how they can spot animals from such long distances when they look like ambiguous dots to us.

In between looking for wildlife, our guide taught us a lot about the history of the area and its relationship to the animals. He knew the area intimately since he was a naturalist in Yellowstone National Park for many years too.

On top of that, the groups are small, they pick you up from your hotel, and provide snacks, binoculars, and spotting scopes.

Pro Tip: If you plan on photographing the wildlife, be sure you have long lenses. We brought a Canon 100-400mm lens and a Sigma 150-600mm lens. It also helps if you have a cropped sensor, but our full-frame cameras worked okay too. If you’re newer to photography, you can book their photo tours where they have photographers guiding you. 

Photography Tip: Batteries die faster in cold weather so it’s a good idea to have extra batteries. You can also store them close to your body so your body heat helps them last longer.

See More: 25 Best Gifts for Photographers

4. Snowshoeing or Nordic Skiiing

Since hiking is tough in the snow, one of the best ways to get around is snowshoeing or Nordic skiing. If you’re new to these activities, go for a guided tour. Otherwise, there are plenty of places in town to rent your own gear and explore on your own.

We went to Hoback Sports, which was around the corner from where we were staying to rent snowshoes and made our way out to Mormon Row. There was no one else out there so we had the whole place to ourselves.

Some popular trails to check out:

  • Bradley and Taggart Lakes
  • Cache Creek
  • Mormon Row

Local Tip: Be sure to account for the weight of any gear you plan on carrying to ensure you get the correct snowshoes. Jacob was carrying all our camera gear which added 10+ lbs so he should have sized up.

Special thanks to 66ºNorth for sending us new gear to keep us warm. Read more about how to dress warm below.

5. Sleigh Rides at the National Elk Refuge

532 N Cache St, Jackson, WY 83001, map

On our first trip to Jackson, we learned the best time to visit the National Elk Refuge is during the winter. In the summer, it wasn’t as exciting seeing the open fields and a handful of birds. In the winter, thousands of elk make the refuge their home.

We picked up our tickets next to the visitor center then they shuttled us over to the refuge. During the sleigh ride, your guide tells you more about the elk and you may even get lucky enough to spot some other animals. We saw a coyote running around looking for food, but apparently the week before two wolves came down very close to the sleigh.

Local Tip: The elk make their way to the refuge as the weather gets colder and there’s more snow on the ground. The cows and calves come down to the refuge first, followed by the bulls later. While we were there, we only spotted a few bulls, but after the snowfall over the weekend, they expected that more would arrive.

sleigh rides jackson hole

6. Dog Sledding Tours

This has been on our bucket list for a while. We didn’t get a chance to dog sled while in Jackson Hole since it’s so popular. It was booked months in advance. On top of that, the Pedigree State Stop sled dog race was in town during our visit, so they were even busier.

Local Tip: If this is high on your list, book through one of the dog sled companies as soon as you know you’re visiting.

7. Snowmobiling

This is another adventure that is on our bucket list. Since most of Yellowstone National Park is closed off to vehicles, one of the best ways to see the park is via snowmobile. If you own your own snowmobile or want to rent one to explore on your own, you can try your luck at the coveted snowmobile permit lottery. Otherwise, there are a few outfitters in town that do guided tours into the park, on Togwotee pass, and to Granite Hot Springs.

8. Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding

This is one of the biggest draws to the Jackson Hole area. During our visit, most of the visitors were in town to hit the slopes. Since Esther is still recovering from two surgeries, we decided that it was too intense for this trip since she tends to fall a lot, but it was sooo tempting during the fresh powder days.

Local Tip: If this is your main activity, book a stay at one of the hotels near the slopes or ensure that your hotel provides a shuttle since parking fills up fast especially on fresh powder days.

9. Hot Springs

After spending days being active, the perfect way to relax is soaking in one of the hot springs near town. There are two established spots to choose from: Astoria Hot Springs Park and Granite Hot Springs.

We visited Granite Hot Springs on our last visit (photos below). During the winter, it’s only accessible via snowmobile, dog sled, skiing, or fat tire biking making it a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Local Tip: Bring some flip flops and your own towel.

See More: 25 Amazing Hot Springs in the US You Must Soak In

10. Fat Tire Biking

Fat tire biking is one of the newest activities that is getting popular in Jackson Hole. These bikes are built for off-roading, but unlike mountain bikes, the oversized tires help you fly down snow-packed trails. Cache Creek is one of the most popular trail systems but you can talk to the rental companies to find out the best trail for you. 

11. Shopping & Dining

Don’t miss out on the amazing shopping and dining that Jackson Hole has to offer. We stayed only a few blocks from Jackson Town Square, which was the perfect location to explore the shops and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, local products, or gear for your adventures, you’re bound to find a store to meet your needs.

jackson hole wyoming in winter

More Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in Winter

  • Cowboy Coaster – check if they are open since they can’t run when there is too much snow. 
  • Fly Fishing
  • Ice Skate – There’s a small rink right in the heart of downtown
  • Museums – National Museum of Wildlife Art, 20+ Art Galleries in Town, Jackson Hole Historical Society
  • Snow Tubing
Jackson Hole Ice Skating

Free Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Winter

Double check each location before heading there to ensure programs are still running.

  • National Fish Hatchery Tours
  • Free Music – on normal years there are often free concerts in and around town
  • Ice Skate – if you have your own skates! If not, you can still rent them there.
  • See a Free Film at Teton Gravity Research

Where to Eat in Jackson HOle

For small town, Jackson has a lot of food options. To minimize contact, we decided to do all of our food take out or delivery and eat in our room. If you do want to dine-in, make a reservation prior to your stay. All bar and restaurants close at 10 pm, so plan accordingly.

Here are the spots we tried and what we loved about them.

  • Persephone Bakery – So good we went back to take some baked goods for our plane ride home. The pastries are amazing and we particularly love the chocolate croissants. We tried some of the breakfast foods as well.
  • Hand Fire Pizza – Well done, creative pizzas! We tried the Even Mo’ Bettah BBQ Pork which is delicious and had a bit of a kick. Jacob preferred The Chew-baca which was on the sweeter side.
  • Gather – Solid American/fusion food. We really enjoyed their brussels sprouts and truffle pasta.
  • Bubba’s Bar-B-Que – Big, hearty meals. The pulled pork and brisket were good, and the beans were the best sides. Didn’t care for the coleslaw, so next time I’m doubling up on the beans.
  • Bapp – We were surprised to find Korean food in Jackson so we had to try it. The food was okay, but the highlight for us was that there is even a mini-mart where you can pick up Asian goodies. We also tried the boba, which surprisingly was better than a lot of boba shops in Vegas.

Essential Tips

  • Planning Your Trip: Because there’s limited capacity right now, tours and activities can book up quickly. Make reservations early. For more resources, check out Visit Jackson Hole’s website.
  • Flights: When booking your flights, give yourself plenty of time on your outgoing flight if you have a connection. We ended up delayed because we had to wait for our plane to be de-iced so we missed our connecting flight and had to get rerouted.
  • Rental Car: Depending on what you want to do, you don’t necessarily need a rental car. If you’re staying in downtown Jackson, you have plenty of accessible shops and restaurants. A lot of hotels offer shuttles to the slopes and if you’re doing tours, they often times offer pick-ups or meeting points nearby. If you do decide to get a car like us, get one with AWD and take it slow. They do a good job at grooming the streets but you’ll still be driving on snow.
  • Hotel + Accommodations: Book your stay early to help local spots stay compliant with capacity regulations and prepare for your stay.
  • Pack: Pack a (or many) mask and dress appropriately. It’s cold but when you’re doing something active, you’ll want to shed layers. We go over our packing list below.
  • Timing: A lot of activities are snow dependent. We were initially going to visit early December but realized that we wouldn’t be able to do most of the activities we wanted to do. Even during our visit in late January, we experienced the first big snowfall of the season which was changing what we could and could not do.
  • Be Flexible: It’s good to have some flexibility in your plans in case weather throws a wrench in your schedule. Also, double check current hours and restrictions before heading anywhere.

What to Pack + How to Dress

When we glanced at the weather in Jackson Hole and saw lows in the single digits and highs in the mid-20s, we were a bit nervous. Although we got used to cold weather living in NYC and even hiked Patagonia in the winter, we are not naturally cold weather people. But we’ve learned that with the right gear, cold weather is nothing to be scared of. Below is a list of everything we packed with us and a few items we wished we had brought.

  • Masks: Masks are required everywhere in Jackson Hole, so it’s a good idea to have a couple masks with you on the trip just in case you misplace yours or lose them. Sometimes it’s nice to have extra ones in case you need to wash them too.
  • Rain Shell: This is our outermost layer and important if you’re spending a lot of time in the snow. Jacob loved his new Snaefell from 66ºNorth and primarily used it when we spent prolonged time outside. I brought my Arc’teryx Rain Shell that I’ve been using for the past few years.
  • Down Jacket: Next up is our down layer. This is our main source of warmth. Jacob rocked his new 66ºNorth Ok jacket and it’s his favorite now. The warm down combined with the stretch panels makes for a great fit with plenty of movement. I brought my Arc’teryx Cerium Down Hoodie since they ran out of my size.
  • Mid-layer: I used my Arc’teryx Delta LT Jacket as my mid layer since I like to have the option to unzip. Jacob prefers his half zip fleece.
  • Base Layers: I’m all about the omni heat base layers for my top and bottom!
  • Pants: We put our brand new DUER All Weather Denims (His + Hers) to the test on this trip and were really happy with the results. Jacob even wore them snowshoeing and despite being in a ton of snow, it was only a bit wet at the bottom cuffs.
  • Boots: We got some insulated Danner Mountain 600s which worked out great. It would have been nice to have some gaiters as well, especially when we were trekking in snow.
  • Hat and/or BalaclavaBoth of us wore these windproof knit caps during the trip which worked out well. I also brought my balaclava for days I needed some extra warmth.
  • Socks: We tested our new waterproof socks out and they came in handy since the snow was so deep it would get in our shoes from time to time. We’ve tried other waterproof socks in the past that were not comfortable, but we were impressed with these.
  • Gloves: Jacob had the best pair of gloves on the trip since they were thin and waterproof making it easy to shoot. I switched between this touchscreen pair for shooting but switched to thicker winter gloves when if my gloves got wet.
  • Rechargeable Hand WarmersHaving a rechargeable hand warmer is nice to give you the option for some extra warmth when you need it!

Best Places to Stay

During our visit, we were hosted by Mountain Modern Motel. Located just a few blocks from downtown, it was a convenient location and the perfect home base for our adventures. The room was comfortable, and clean, and had plenty of space for organizing our gear (there was even a dedicated space for outdoor gear).

What’s Nearby

  • Grand Teton National Park (4.9 mi / 7 min)
  • Yellowstone National Park (57.5 mi / 1 hr 15 min)
  • Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (128 mi / 2 hr 32 min)
  • Fossil Butte National Monument (154 mi / 2 hr 45 min)
  • Crater of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (218 mi / 4 hr 30 min)

Planning Checklist

Are there any other Jackson Hole winter activities that we missed?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

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11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-jackson-hole-wyoming/ https://localadventurer.com/things-to-do-in-jackson-hole-wyoming/#comments Tue, 25 Sep 2018 12:00:00 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=43365 Visiting Jackson Hole? Don’t miss these awesome activities and places to visit. My hand tightened on the grip of my paddle as our guide steered our raft. Our relaxing float down the river was about to take a turn for excitement. “All forward!” he yelled, and we all hopped into action digging our paddles as […]

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Visiting Jackson Hole? Don’t miss these awesome activities and places to visit.

My hand tightened on the grip of my paddle as our guide steered our raft. Our relaxing float down the river was about to take a turn for excitement. “All forward!” he yelled, and we all hopped into action digging our paddles as hard as we could into the surface of the water. 

This was only one of many exciting things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.

Whether you want to relax, challenge yourself with a hike, or get a taste of the wild west, we’ve put together this list to help you decide what to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming.

11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming // Local Adventurer #thatswy #wyoming #wy #usa #travel #outdoors #hiking #adventure #grandteton #jacksonhole #nationalpark

Thank you to Aramark for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: January 5, 2025

11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming

1. Grand Teton National Park →

Q8R9+57 Jenny Lake, map

You can’t have a list of the top things to do in Jackson Hole without including Grand Teton National Park. There are over 230 miles of hiking trails and the easy access to epic mountain views makes this one of the best National Parks out there. If you’re planning a visit soon, don’t forget to check out our Grand Teton National Park guide. Also, Yellowstone National Park is a short drive away.

Pro Tip: Pick up a National Park Annual Pass.

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

Jenny Lake + 11 Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park + 11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole // Local Adventurer

2. Snake River White Water Rafting

1450 US-89, 83001, map

We met early morning at Sands Whitewater & Scenic River Trips and got into the river 25 miles south of the city. Ours felt like the perfect mix of enjoying the scenery and an adrenaline rush, which made it one of our favorite Jackson Hole activities. The rapids are typically class 2-3, and they run tours May to September depending on the water levels. If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you can opt for the scenic float trips down the river. We also saw some people fly fishing during our trip, which made Jacob want to try it on our next visit.

Photographers are positioned along the river to take shots of you at pivotal moments, so don’t forget to smile! Although, I love my terrified face in the second photo. There are two photography companies, and we recommend Float-O-Graphs. They have a store in the heart of Jackson and helpful staff. Plus you get a huge discount if you buy it there vs online.

Pro Tip: According to our guide, you should visit in July if you want a more exciting ride. The water is warmer and there are the most rapids.

Snake River White Water Rafting + 11 Epic Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming // Local Adventurer

3. Soak in the Granite Hot Springs

Granite Creek Rd, 83001, map

Granite Hot Springs is a local favorite spot for a soak and is about an hour drive outside of town. It has been around since the pioneer days and has transformed over the years and is now an established pool. There is a small fee ($8 adults, $5 children) and onsite bathroom facilities.

Just before arriving, you’ll get views of Granite Creek Falls. It’s a great stop and if you dare, you can even wade across Granite Creek to find two natural pools. As a warning, it’s not easy since the water moves quick. I would highly recommend a trekking poles to stabilize yourself.

Pro Tip: The road gets rough driving out to the creek so take it slow or have a high clearance vehicle.

See More: 25 Amazing Hot Springs in the US You Must Soak In

4. Take a Scenic Drive

One of the best ways to enjoy the area is by going on a scenic drive. Not only do you get epic views of the Tetons, but you may even spot wildlife. These are some great drives:

  • Moose Wilson Road – windy 8-mile road between Grand Teton National Park and Moose. They say if you want to see a moose, your best chances are here. Also, take time to explore the beautiful Laurance Rockefeller Preserve area.
  • Inner Park Loop Road – 20-mile path through the National Park right under the Tetons.
  • Jenny Lake Scenic Loop – 3-mile road giving you plenty of viewpoints.
  • Kelly Loop – 16-mile loop where you’ll find herds of bison, Mormon Row, Moulton Barn, and more.

Pro Tip: If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife, just look for a mass of cars stopped on the side of the road. Driving along the Gros Ventre River is a great place to start, and it’s where we spotted the moose below.

See More: 21 Best Road Trips in USA to Put on Your Bucket List

Moose Wilson Road Wyoming - One of your best chances of spotting Moose in Grand Teton National Park // Local Adventurer

5. Admire the Art at the National Museum of Wildlife Art

2820 Rungius Rd, 83001, map

If you love nature or you are an art enthusiast, visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. There are 14 galleries, sculptures outside the building, and more.

If you’re looking for other museums to visit, check out these:

  • Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum – been around since 1958 and tells you all about the history of the area
  • Jackson Hole Children’s Museum – great if you have little ones

Check their site for updated hours and guidelines this year.

National Museum of Wildlife Art + Your Essential Guide on What to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming // Local Adventurer

6. National elk Refuge

675 E Broadway Ave, 83001, map

The National Elk Refuge is a sanctuary for the Jackson Elk Herd and home to roughly 11,000 animals. During the summer, they are harder to find in the area, but you may spot other animals such as bison, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and wolves. Unfortunately when we went, they were roaming elsewhere.

In the summer, you can follow a trail to get some great views. In the winter, they also do sleigh rides that get you closer to the elk making it one of the best places for Jackson Hole wildlife. We made it back in the winter – check out our guide here.

Pro Tip: The road gets rough driving out to the creek so take it slow or have a high clearance vehicle.

See More: 11+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Winter

National Elk Refuge + Top Things to do in Jackson Hole in Winter // Local Adventurer
Jackson Hole Elk Refuge

7. Hop in a UTV and Explore the Backcountry

27655 US-26, 83013, map

Get off the main roads and explore the backcountry on a UTV. Since we were staying at the Togwotee Mountain Lodge, we picked ours up from the front desk and took it around the Bridger Teton National Forest area.

Usually, you get great views of the Tetons, but the entire west coast was on fire when we visited. It just means there’s another reason to come back. They also have a location in town if that is closer for you.

Pro Tip: The UTVs are street-legal too, so you can drive the scenic roads.

Jackson Hole ATV Tours and UTV Tours + Top Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming // Local Adventurer

8. Explore Downtown Jackson

532 North Cache, 83001 map

If you need a break from all the outdoor adventure and want to relax during your Jackson Hole vacation, spend an afternoon in town. If you’re not sure where to start, stop by the visitor center and they can point you in the right direction. They usually know all the best spots and any special Jackson Hole offers. 

Local Tip: Don’t miss the four elk antler arches at George Washington Memorial Park also known as Town Square. The Boy Scouts collected 1000 pounds of antlers from the National Elk Refuge.

Jackson Wyoming Downtown + 11 Fun Things to Do in Jackson Hole // Local Adventurer

9. Experience the Wild West

Wyoming is the Cowboy State, so what better excuse for some Western fun. Here are a few options to channel your inner cowboy.

  • Horseback Riding – There are plenty of options when it comes to Teton horseback adventures, so hop on the back of a trusty steed as your guide takes you through beautiful trails.
  • Chuck Wagon Dinners – Have dinner with a cowboy as they serve dinner out of traditional covered wagon cook-out.
  • Stagecoach Rides – Ride around town in a real stagecoach pulled by beautiful horses.
  • Jackson Hole Shoot-out – Clear the streets at 6 PM between Memorial Day and Labor Day to watch a re-enactment of a shootout presented by the Jackson Hole Playhouse. It easily makes the list of the best free things to do in Jackson Hole from May to September.
  • Jackson Hole Rodeo – Get a real rodeo experience every Wednesday and Saturday night.
Jackson Hole Rodeo + Top Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Summer and Winter // Local Adventurer

10. Take to the Sky

If you want to see the Jackson Hole area from a completely new perspective, then head up to the sky! Since most of us can’t fly (yet), here are a few options to get a solid bird’s-eye view.

  • Hot Air Balloon – If you’re looking for unique things to do in Jackson Hole, hop into the basket of a hot air balloon and head up for a dreamy scenic view of the area.
  • Jackson Hole Aerial Tram – From Teton Village, ride this Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram 4,139 vertical feet to get stunning 360 views. It’s one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole in winter and in summer.
  • Paraglide – If you’re looking for something more adrenaline pumping, then join your pilot as you run off the summit of Snow King Mountain mountain and truly take flight. You get to see the Teton Mountain Range as the birds do.
Hot Air Balloon Jackson Hole + 11 Fun Things to Do in Jackson Wyoming // Local Adventurer
photo: Mark Hintsa

11. Grab a Drink

We were initially going to keep the list at the top 10 things to do in Jackson Hole, but we couldn’t leave this out. After all the adventurous activities, wind down and quench your thirst at one of the local spots. Whether you’re a beer drinker, wino, and prefer something stronger, here are some good options.

  • Snake River Brewing – A staple since 1994, this brewpub is in a beautiful old warehouse.
  • Jackson Hole Winery – This is a family-owned and operated winery that is set along one of the most scenic areas in Jackson Hole.
  • Jackson Hole Still Works – This is the only craft distillery in the area made from locally sourced ingredients and mountain water.

More Things to Do in Jackson Hole

  • Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
  • Center for the Arts
  • Hidden Falls
  • Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center
  • Jackson Hole Shooting Experience
  • Laurance Rockefeller Preserve
  • Rendezvous Park
  • Teton Pines
  • Teton Raptor Center

Essential Tips for First Timers

  • Planning Your Trip: Tours and activities can book up quickly during the busy season. Make reservations early.
  • Rental Car: Depending on what you want to do, you don’t necessarily need a rental car. If you’re staying in downtown Jackson, you have plenty of accessible shops and restaurants. A lot of hotels offer shuttles and if you’re doing tours, they oftentimes offer pick-ups or meeting points nearby.
  • Hotel + Accommodations: Book your stay early to get what you want.
  • Be Flexible: It’s good to have some flexibility in your plans in case weather throws a wrench in your schedule. Also, double check current hours and restrictions before heading anywhere.

What to Pack

Where to Stay

We stayed at Togwotee Mountain Lodge during our visit. Located about 30 minutes east of Grand Teton National Park, it’s still convenient for exploring the area, but far enough away from the busiest of town to give you a secluded hideaway.

On-site, you have the option to stay in the main lodge or private cabins. There are two restaurants on-site and they even have hot tubs to relax in after a long day. See more Tripadvisor reviews of the lodge or book your stay here

What’s Nearby

Planning Checklist

Have you visited before? What else should make this list of the best things to see in Jackson Hole?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.

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11 Incredible Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park https://localadventurer.com/best-things-to-do-in-grand-teton-national-park-wyoming/ https://localadventurer.com/best-things-to-do-in-grand-teton-national-park-wyoming/#comments Mon, 28 May 2018 12:00:00 +0000 http://localadventurer.com/?p=37454 If you’re visiting Grand Teton National Park, you don’t want to miss these spots. There’s no denying the beauty of the Teton range in Grand Teton National Park. Paired with the winding Snake River, abundant wildlife, and miles of hiking trails, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this National Park. Since Yellowstone […]

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If you’re visiting Grand Teton National Park, you don’t want to miss these spots.

There’s no denying the beauty of the Teton range in Grand Teton National Park. Paired with the winding Snake River, abundant wildlife, and miles of hiking trails, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with this National Park. Since Yellowstone National Park is its neighbor, many people do both on the same trip. We visited on the tail end of our Yellowstone trip and wished we spent more time here.

For us, it was more enjoyable without the crowds, and we were so excited to see our first moose (two actually – a mama and a baby!).

Your Ultimate Guide to Grand Teton National Park | Are you visiting Grand Teton? Click this article to see a list of the 11 Best Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park. There is amazing photography spots, camping, scenic drives, and we include a Grand Teton National Park Hiking bucket list // Local Adventurer #grandteton #wyoming #nationalpark

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Last Updated: March 3, 2025

TLDR

📍 Location – Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone National Park, and is part of the Rocky Mountains. It’s renowned for its towering mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

🥾 Our Fave Attractions – Jenny Lake Trail, Mormon Row, Look for Wildlife, Rafting

🦬 Wildlife – Bison, Elk, Moose, Bears, Wolves, Pronghorn Antelope, Mule Deer, Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons

11 Incredible THings to Do in Grand Teton National Park

1. Take a Scenic Drive

If you don’t have much time to explore, you can still enjoy the amazing views by driving through the park and stopping at pullouts. Here are a few drives to check out:

  • Teton Park Road – follows the base of the Teton Range from Moose to Jackson Lake Junction
  • Jenny Lake Scenic Drive – spectacular views of the peaks and Jenny Lake
  • Signal Mountain Summit Road – climb 800 feet to panoramic views

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming

Take a scenic drive through the Teton Range with views of the winding Snake River (#1) + Check out the article on 11 incredible things to do in Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming - beautiful places, hikes, and epic adventures to add to your Wyoming Bucket List // Local Adventurer #wyoming #grandteton

2. Horseback Riding

If you’re not much of a hiker, but still want to see the park beyond the pullouts and the main road, then go on a guided horseback ride. Stop by a Visitor Center to learn more about guide companies.

3. Go on a Hike

There is a wide range of hikes in Grand Teton National Park. A lot of them can be quite challenging due to the rugged landscape, high elevation, and steep inclines. The weather can also change suddenly, so it’s always good to be prepared.

Best Day Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

Best Backcountry Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

  • Phelps Lake Trail (7 miles loop trail, △725 feet, moderate)
  • The Grand Teton Loop Trail (31.6 miles loop trail, △6909 feet, strenuous)
  • Teton Crest Trail (33 miles point-to-point trail, △6617 feet, strenuous)

Be bear aware! Read our guide to bear safety here.

Backcountry Permits

  • 1/3 of Each Back County Camping Zone is reserved for advanced reservations. The other 2/3 will be available first-come, first-served.
  • Advanced backcountry reservations can be made between January and May 15. For details, visit this page. A $45 non-refundable processing fee is required for each trip.
  • Walk-in permits can be obtained one day before starting a backcountry trip. During peak season (July & August), these are hard to come by. There is a $35 fee for each walk-in backcountry permit.

4. See Wildlife

Animals You Can Find in the Park: pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, coyote, gray wolf, mountain lion, bobcat, wolverine, black & grizzly bears, and more.

Best Places to Find Wildlife in Grand Teton

  • Oxbox Bend – moose, beaver, otters, ospreys, bald eagles, elk, and grizzly bears.
  • Snake River – elk, bison, moose, ospreys, bald eagles, and beaver.
  • Cascade Canyons – moose, black bears, and grizzly bears.
  • Northern Jackson Lake – mule deer, elk, white pelicans, and other waterfowl.
  • Colter Bay – snowshoe hares, martens, beavers, river otters, bear, moose, and elk.
  • Willow Flats – moose, elk, wolves, grizzly bears, and beavers.
  • Teton Park Road – pronghorn, black bears, and elk.

Keep in mind, these are WILD animals and should be treated that way. Whether you’re in a car or on foot, stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other animals.

While we were there, a wildlife photographer mentioned she spotted moose around Moose-Wilson Road, so we went there and saw our very first moose! Ask the wildlife photographers, since a lot of them scope the area for days.

See More: 11+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming in the Winter

5. Camping

There are 6 campgrounds at Grand Teton National Park. The fees change year to year, so double-check the pricing on each site. There is a maximum stay length of 14 days at all campgrounds except Jenny Lake, which is 7 days.

For RVer, Colter Bay RV Park & Headwaters Campgrounds & RV have full hookups. Signal Mountain Campground has one site with full hook-ups and 24 with electric hookups. Gros Ventre Campground has 36 electric hookup sites.

If you are visiting in the winter, primitive camping is allowed at Colter Bay.

See More: 21 Car Camping Essentials – Everything You Need to Pack

6. Get on the Water

Rafting – Get a unique view of the park from the water! If you want to go rafting, there is a wide range of difficulty. You can meander down the river and enjoy the views or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for something more challenging that will give you an adrenaline rush. Stop by the visitor center to find out the list of approved guides.

Canoeing / Kayaking – Rent or bring your own canoe or kayak to cool down in the hot summer weather. There are multiple lakes to explore and it’s a great way to get away from the crowds on the shores.

PERMITS: Boating & Floating Permits can be purchased at the visitor center in Moose Jenny Lake or Colter Bay.

  • Jenny Lake & Jackson Lake allow motorboats.
  • Jackson, Jenny, Phelps, Emma Matilda, Two Ocean, Taggart, Bradley, Bearpaw, Leigh, and String Lakes allow human-powered vessels.
  • Jackson Lake is the only one that allows sailboats, water skiing, and windsurfing.

Local Tip: Helps to have water shoes – these are our favorite!

Snake River White Water Rafting + 11 Epic Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming // Local Adventurer

7. Fishing

If you love fishing then bring your rod to the National Park for some world-class fishing. There are also approved businesses that can provide commercial fishing trips within Grand Teton. Remember that a license is required (guides can also help you with that).

8. Visit Mormon Row

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997, this area of the park was once home to Mormon settlers who established 27 homesteads here. Now there are two very picturesque barns that bring in photographers from all over the world.

9. Attend a Ranger’s Program

One of the best ways to see the park is through a Ranger Program. They have so much insight and knowledge about the park that you would normally miss on your own. Although most of the programs run in the summer, there are chances to see sage grouse in the spring, wildlife caravans in the fall, snowshoe walks in the winter. For a full list of programs, visit their site here.

10. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

Winter is long, but that also means you have a lot of time to cross-country ski and snowshoe. If you aren’t experienced, rangers have guided snowshoe hikes Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from late December to mid-March.

Note: The park doesn’t mark the ski and snowshoe trails.

11. Climbing and Mountaineering

Grand Teton National Park is a popular spot for mountaineers. A permit is not required, but if you plan on staying overnight in the backcountry or bivouac, then you must obtain a permit at Jenny Lake Ranger Station. If you plan on heading to Garnet Canyon or if your climb is technical, then you need to stop to get a permit.

Take a scenic drive through the Teton Range with views of the winding Snake River (#1) + Check out the article on 11 incredible things to do in Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming - beautiful places, hikes, and epic adventures to add to your Wyoming Bucket List // Local Adventurer #wyoming #grandteton

Best time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on what you want to do and the weather you can handle. In most cases, Summer will be the busiest months, and Spring and Fall are great to avoid the crowds but still get decent weather.

  • Mid-April to June is made up of mild days (65°F) and cool nights (30°F), with chances of rain and snow.
  • July & August are warm during the days (80°F) and cool at night (40°F). Afternoon thundershowers are common.
  • September to November usually has sunny days (50°F) and cold nights (20°F), with chances of rain and snow again.
  • December to Mid-April are cold days (30°F) and frigid nights (0°F).
  • Jan to March commonly has an average of 30 inches of snow.

Visitor Centers

As always, we recommend starting any visit to the Visitor Center. You can get up-to-date information, any additional maps you need, and insight into the park that you might not find online. Rangers are a great resource if you’re not sure how to spend your time there. Hours vary based on location (see them here).

  • Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center (open March to October)
  • Colter Bay Visitor Center (open mid-May to October)
  • Flagg Ranch Information Station (open June to early September)
  • Jenny Lake Visitor Center (open late-May to September)
  • Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center (open June to September)

Directions & Entrance Fees

103 Headquarters Loop, Moose, WY 83012, map

Check most up-to-date road conditions here.

  • Salt Lake City, Utah to Grand Teton (~290 miles / 5-6 hours by car)
  • Denver, Colorado to Grand Teton (~550 miles / 9-10 hours by car)
  • Closest Airports Are: Jackson Hole Airport, Jackson, Wyoming (JAC), Idaho Falls Regional Aiport, Idaho Falls, Idaho (IDA), and Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC)

Entrance Fees

  • $35 Grand Teton Private Vehicle (for 7 days)
  • $20 Grand Teton Hiker/Biker (for 7 days)
  • $70 Grand Teton Annual Pass
  • $80 America the Beautiful Annual Pass (recommended if you’re going to multiple parks)

Essential Tips for Your Visit

  • Save time at the gates and money by picking up an American the Beautiful pass before you visit. It gets you into National Parks, National Forests, BLM, and more.
  • Bears are in the park and you should always have Bear Spray with you. Read more about bear safety here.
  • DO NOT approach wild animals. Stay at least 100 meters away from bears and wolves and 25 meters away from other animals. This is regardless of if you’re in a car or on foot.
  • To avoid crowds, start your day early. It’s typically busiest between 9 AM and 3 PM.
  • The main road won’t take you a long time to drive. You can get out of the car and hike some of the paths to see more of the park. Plus, there are even fewer people the farther you get from the main road.

What to Pack

What you will need obviously depends on what season your visiting, how long you’re staying, and what you plan on doing, but here is a general list to get you started.

Where to Eat

There are several options for food within the park, but most of them are only open during the summer.

Summer Options

Year Round (except November)

  • Dornan’s Pizza and Pasta Co (Moose)
  • Grocery Store: Dornan’s Trading Post (Moose)
  • Grocery Store: Headwaters Lodge Convenience Store (Flagg Ranch)

Where to Stay

What’s nearby

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Grand Teton National Park? Are we missing anything?

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Esther and Jacob

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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