Jackson Hole Travel Guide: 9 Amazing Things To Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
My father-in-law is from Wyoming, and I have been spending my summers outside of Jackson with my in-laws for the last 5 years so I have an insider’s scoop on all the best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
So if you’re ready to plan your trip to Jackson Hole, here are 7 amazing spots you don’t want to miss!
You will want to stay until the end, because I have included a free downloadable itinerary to Jackson Hole to make your travels easier!
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a tour or book a hotel through a link below then I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
Things to do in Jackson Hole (VIDEO)
@herjoliejourney 🏔 5 Jackson Hole Adventures not in National Parks 🏔 No park pass needed for these jaw-dropping Jackson Hole escapades: 🤠Cowboy Coaster 💦Granite Hot Springs 🚡 Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and Gondola Rides 🛶Lunchcounter 🎭 Jackson Hole Playhouse SAVE this post to find some of the best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming #visitwyoming #wyoming #jacksonhole #visitjacksonhole #jacksonholewyoming ♬ Dog Days Are Over - Florence + The Machine
So When is the Best Time to Visit Jackson Hole?
The best time to visit Jackson Hole depends on your interests and what you consider the best things to do in Jackson Hole.
For outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing, summer (June to August) offers mild weather and long days. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, with abundant snowfall creating excellent conditions.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These times offer vibrant foliage and opportunities for fishing and horseback riding and is my own personally favorite time to visit. Too many people sleep on Jackson Hole in the fall!
Ultimately, Jackson Hole offers something special year-round, catering to a variety of interests and preferences.
Let’s Talk about How to Get to Jackson Hole
Here’s the thing, Jackson Hole there are a few great options on how to get to Jackson Hole and I am spilling the details below on driving, flying and everything in between to make sure you can accomplish all the best things to do in Jackson Hole!
The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), located approximately 9 miles north of the town of Jackson. It is served by several major airlines with direct flights from major cities across the United States.
Shuttle services are available from Jackson Hole Airport to the town of Jackson and surrounding areas. These shuttles can be pre-booked and offer convenient transportation options for travelers.
Jackson Hole is accessible by car via major highways, including US Route 191 and US Route 26. It is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City, Utah, and a 5.5-hour drive from Boise, Idaho. I love renting my car through here.
Looking for a ride in Jackson Hole? You’re in luck! Ride-sharing options are available year-round. While they may be slightly pricier than other transportation options, they can be a good option. Keep in mind that the availability of Uber and Lyft is still growing, given the small size of Jackson.
Excited to explore Jackson Hole but don’t have a rental car? Don’t worry! The START Bus is here to help. Serving both residents and visitors of Teton County, Wyoming, this public transportation system offers frequent routes throughout the summer and winter months. Whether you’re heading to Teton Village or Teton County, Idaho, the START Bus will get you where you need to go. Plus, with a new fleet of hybrid buses, the START Bus is doing their part to reduce fuel consumption by about 35%! Best of all, rides are affordable at just $1 to $3 one way, depending on your pick-up and drop-off locations. So sit back and enjoy the ride! You can find more information here.
1. Hitch a Ride On A Scenic Aerial Tram
If you’re in Jackson Hole, you absolutely can’t miss catching a glimpse of the INCREDIBLE views of Jackson and the Grand Tetons. How, you ask? The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, of course! It’s a total game-changer. And, I’m about to let you in on a little sneaky secret…there’s a cute, cozy cabin up there that serves up some absolutely heavenly homemade waffles. It’s called Corbet’s Cabin, and it’s the perfect spot to indulge in some hot cocoa and waffles that will change your life.
I am going to let you in on a little secret, you will find a cute cozy cabin that serves delicious home-made waffles! The Aerial Tram will take you to Corbet’s Cabin where you can enjoy some hot chocolate and fresh waffles! It’s no wonder this is considered one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole!
Here are some tips when visiting:
- ADMISSION: Price varies depending on the season, but during the summer expect to pay $49/adult and $42/junior (5-17), seniors/ Purchase tickets online to save $7
- AERIAL TRAM HOURS: The aerial tram runs from May 21 – October 9
- BRIDGER/SWEETWATER GONDOLA HOURS: Open from June 11 – Sept 11
- TICKET ACCESS: Tickets grant you access to 3 different aerial teams and the ticket is good for the entire day, evening included
- HOW TO GET TO THE BEST WAFFLES: Aerial Tram takes you to Corbet’s Cabin. Corbet’s Cabin is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM
- BRIDGER GONDOLA takes you to Piste Mountain Bistro and The Deck
- SWEETWATER GONDOLA takes you to some great mountain bike trails
- EVENING GONDOLA TICKETS: You can buy evening gondola tickets for 5pm – 7:30pm and it’s just $16 but it can only be used for the Bridger Gondola. Closed every Friday and Saturday.
- EVENING GONDOLA TIP: Evening Gondola Ticket is free if you have a sightseeing lift ticket from that day or a reservation at Piste that day.
- DOG FRIENDLY? Sadly no, your dog will have to stay behind
Jackson Hole Aerial Tram (VIDEO)
@herjoliejourney A nice activity if you’re looking to relax 🌲 #jacksonholewyoming #jacksonwyoming #wyoming #wyomingtravel #wyomingtravel #usatraveldestinations #travelguides #traveltiktok #travel #travelblogger ♬ Wildest Dreams - Duomo
2. Cruise Through a Beautiful Private Ranch on this Tour
Ready to unlock the ultimate Jackson Hole experience? I consider this my personal favorite when it comes to the best things to do in Jackson Hole! Want to know what makes it so special??
Cruise through a private ranch and take in exclusive views of Grand Teton with Back Country Safaris. Get ready to hop on board a side-by-side and explore Jackson Hole’s wildnerness while catching jaw-dropping views of the Tetons and wildlife. We guarantee you’ll have a blast – we sure did! This tour company also offers other epic tours in Jackson Hole, so don’t miss out and book your adventure today!
3. Take A Dip In Granite Hot Springs
This spot is one of my absolute favorites and one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole!!
Just an hour south of Jackson you will find some beautiful natural hot springs tucked away in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. It’s the type of place that gives off just the sweetest little postcard vibes!
Here is everything you need to know before visiting:
- ROAD CONDITIONS: The road to get here can be rough, because it is an unpaved dirt road. Simply exercise caution when driving.
- PAYMENT: You can only pay with CASH or CHECK.
- ADMISSION: $8/adult and $5/children
- WHAT TO FIND HERE: There are 2 natural pools you can soak in for free, but it can be challenging to wade across the creek.
- WINTER ACCESS: the road can only be accessed by snowmobile, dog sled, ski or fat bike.
- DOG-FRIENDLY? You can bring your dog, but they can’t get in the hot springs
- HOURS: Open everyday from 10 am – 4 pm in the winter months, open until 7 pm in the summer.
Granite Hot Springs Tour (VIDEO)
4. Catch Dinner & Show at Jackson Playhouse
Aside from the exterior of this building just elevating your Instagram game, this historical building is the oldest structure in Jackson! Built in 1915 and originally used as a transportation depot, and later used as a bowling alley, mercantile and post office. It wasn’t until 1948 that it was converted into a theater.
Today, you can find visitors and locals alike flock to this theater for a good time! Because you would have to be crazy not to consider dinner and a show one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole.
Everything you need to know when booking a show at Jackson Hole Playhouse Theater:
- WHAT KIND OF SHOWS CAN BE FOUND HERE? Western-themed musicals take place during the summer season (June – October). Original parodies and Christmas show the rest of the year.
- ADMISSION: If you would like to include dinner and a show tickets cost $99 for adults and $59 for kids. If you would just like to attend the show the cost is $50 for adults and $39 for kids.
- HOURS: Dinner takes place at 6:00 pm, and the show starts at 7:45 pm
- FAMILY FRIENDLY? Shows are appropriate for all ages
- DOG FRIENDLY? No
- Tickets can be purchased here.
5. Cruise Down the River on a Scenic Float Trip
If you are looking to have a more mellow day, but still explore the outdoors I got you! Book a scenic float trip with Black Dog Raft Company. One of the best and most highly-reviewed companies in the area!
The tour covers 13 miles down the Snake River and includes some beautiful scenic spots including views of the Tetons. You may even get lucky and catch some views of wildlife. This relaxing experience needs to be added to your list of the best things to do in Jackson Hole.
The image below was provided by Black Dog Raft Company.
And if you don’t want to leave your dog behind, you don’t have to because this tour is DOG-FRIENDLY!!
Here Are Some Tips When Booking Your Tour
- ADMISSION: Pricing is based on size of group, because this is more of a private party experience. It can range from $399 (1-3 people) to $999 (9-12 people) but if you split cost between friends it’s pretty reasonable. Pricing can be found here.
- TOUR HOURS: 8 a.m., 12 p.m. or 4:30 p.m.
- DURATION: The tour is 3 hours
- AGES: Open to all ages
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: The guide handles all the rowing. You get to just sit back and enjoy the tour. Rain ponchos and/or blankets are provided in the case of bad weather.
If you are looking for some more budget-friendly options I have outlined a few other companies below.:
6. Take A Stroll Down to Lunch Counter
If you aren’t interested in taking a white water rafting tour down the Snake River, this is the place for you! Lunch Counter is one of the most famous rapids on the Snake River and there is a trail that leads you down to the point of the rapids where you can watch other tours make their way through the rapids. This spot screams picnic perfect!
I have spent every summer in Jackson Hole for 7 years and I never miss this spot. I consider this one of the absolute best things to do in Jackson Hole, and I know you will too!
@herjoliejourney Looking for a peaceful hike in Wyoming? With a little insider knowledge, I am sharing the perfect little trail for a midday picnic. Located between Alpine and Hoback, along the Snake River, is a trail that won't disappoint. *Drumroll please* Introducing *Lunch Counter*! No, it's not a new restaurant, it's one of the most famous rapids on the Snake River. You don't have to be a kayaker to appreciate the amazing view of Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna rapids below. The best part? The trail is super easy and less than a quarter mile from the parking area to the river. So pack your baguette and brie, and get ready to take in the beautiful views without breaking a sweat. #visitwyoming #wyoming #wyomingtravel ♬ Originalton - darlingsthoughts
Let me make it easy for you and provide helpful info:
- DIRECTIONS: Lunch Counter is just parallel to US Highway 89 and is located 30 miles south of Jackson. The best way to locate the parking lot to Lunch Counter is by using AllTrails to provide directions or inputting these coordinates into your GPS to take you there: 43.195790, -110.916190
- TRAIL DURATION: The trail is just 0.4 miles round trip, and the trail takes you down-hill to the rapids but keep in mind it can feel difficult on the way back with the switchbacks. The trail is very well-maintained.
- WHAT TO BRING: There isn’t much shade near the rapids, so make sure to bring sunscreen and bug-spray.
- BEST TIP: It can get crowded fast especially on the weekends, so if you want to beat the crowds get here earlier in the day or towards the end of the day.
- DOG FRIENDLY? Yes! I highly recommend keeping your dog on a leash. It’s not a place you want your dog to fall into the water.
7. Ride to Dinner in a Horse-Drawn Wagon
One of the most authentic things you can do in Jackson Hole is to take a trip back in time and ride a covered wagon through the woods where a chuck wagon dinner will be provided.
The Bar T 5 Covered Wagon Cookout & Show is one of the best things you can do in Jackson Hole! You will start your journey by settling into one of their rustic wagons and taking a 2 mile trip up Cache Creek Canyon where you will enjoy dinner and a show.
Here is Everything You Need to Know:
- ADMISSION: $60/Adult, $45/Child (5-12), Toddlers & Infants FREE (4 and under)
- PARKING: The Bar T-5 Corral is located just 1.5 miles southeast of downtown Jackson at 812 Cache Creek Drive. Parking is available on site.
- HOURS: Open from Mid May through End of September. Open Monday – Saturday. SUMMER Schedule (May 16 – August 24) 1st Show Time: 4:45 pm, 2nd Show Time: 6:00 pm. FALL Schedule (August 25 – End of September) 1st Show Time: 4:15 pm, 2nd Show Time: 5:30 pm. The dates can vary, so check their website.
- AGES: Open to all ages
- DURATION: Approximately 3 hours.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: This includes the wagon ride, all you can eat Dutch oven dinner and an interactive show.
- DOG FRIENDLY? No, horses and other animals don’t always get along.
8. Go on a Fun Ride Down the Cowboy Coaster
Looking for a wild ride in Jackson, Wyoming? Look no further than the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King Mountain Resort!
This gravity-driven roller coaster offers breathtaking views of the valley and Teton Mountains, with turns and twists for an adrenaline-pumping experience. It’s a year-round attraction that transforms with the seasons. Enjoy lush greenery and panoramic views in the summer, or a snowy wonderland with crisp forest air in the winter. Don’t miss out on the fun – the Cowboy Coaster is a must-visit! I am not even being dramatic when I say this is a must add to your list of things to do in Jackson Hole!
Insider Tips on the Cowboy Coaster:
- PARKING: The Cowboy Coaster is located at the Snow King Mountain Resort. Parking is limited, but available on site.
- HOURS: Open Monday – Saturday from 11 am to 6:30 pm. The dates can vary, so check their website.
- AGES: Must be at least 38” tall and 3 years old to be a passenger and accompanied by a responsible person over the age of 16 between 54-84” tall. The driver must be able to see over the passenger.
- SPEED: 25 mph
9. Hop on a Boat Across Jenny Lake
Take a scenic trip across Jenny Lake through the Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat. This shuttle service can be found at the base of Mount Teewinot. The boat will take you to some great trails that can be found from the boat dock.
This shuttle eliminates 2 miles of hiking each way to get to some of these popular trail heads. The boats do run continuously, so there is no need to book in advance.
Tips When Visiting Jenny Lake Shuttle Boat:
- ADMISSION: $20/Adult Round-trip (12 yrs to 61 yrs), $ 12/Adult One-Way, $ 12/Child Round-trip (2 yrs to 11 yrs), $ 10.00 Child One-Way, $ 17/Senior Round-trip (62 yrs and over), No Senior One-Way rate, FREE Under 2 years of age and over 80 yrs.
- HOURS: Shuttles run every 10-15 minutes throughout the day. May 15 – June 6: 10 am-4 pmJune 7 – Sept , 5: 7 am-7 pm, Sept 6 – Sept 30: 10 am-4 pm. The dates can vary year to year, so check their website before visiting.
- BEST HIKES: Hidden Falls (1 mi), Inspiration Point (2 miles), Cascade Canyon that leads North to Solitude Lake or South to the South Fork of Cascade Canyon, and beyond to Hurricane Pass and Schoolroom Glacier.
- DOG FRIENDLY? Sadly no
- BONUS: You can book a Scenic Cruise on Jenny Lake! A 1 hour guided tour of Jenny Lake that provides more knowledgeable information on the park. Reservations can be made here. Of course it’s one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole!
I hope this list helps you find the best things to do in Jackson Hole!
If you are looking to explore some more great spots in Wyoming make sure to check out my Wyoming travel guides here: The Best Fall Road Trip to Grand Teton National Park and Where the Locals Go To See Fall in Wyoming.
And while you’re here, fill out the form below to receive your free downloadable itinerary to Jackson delivered straight to your inbox! It’s filled with BONUS SPOTS.
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