The best time to visit Jackson Hole
Summer in Jackson Hole is one of my favorite times of the year. From June onward, the Tetons light up with the glow of warm, buttery sunlight, temperatures rise to the pleasant 70s and 80s, and all the fun and games begin in full swing! It’s hard not to enjoy the pleasantries when the whole town bustles with the rush of tourists and all the most beautiful trails and spots in the Grand Teton National Park open up once more for public access. Summer in Jackson Hole is fun, lively, and breathtaking — what’s not to love about it?
What to wear in Jackson Hole in the summer
Although temperatures are warm and pleasant during the day, it can get chilly in the early morning and late evening. Don’t forget to pack a fleece or a warm jacket for good measure!
How crowded is Jackson Hole in the summer?
Although many tend to lament the throngs of people in Jackson Hole in the summer, this is no problem if you know where to go! Of course, there tend to be many tourists and families in the most mainstream areas, but the great thing about Jackson Hole is that there is no limit to the beautiful lakes, trails, caves, and peaks to be explored. As long as you plan ahead, you can find all the best places that tend to be left unexplored by the average tourist.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 18 best things to do during summer in Jackson Hole. This is your ultimate guide for all things touristy and not — to appeal to all types of travelers!
1. Bike around the mountains
If you want to explore the Grand Teton National Park on your own, rent a bike and take off! There is so much freedom and fun to be had in biking around the beautiful lakes and mountains and witnessing the exquisite flora and fauna up close. Biking in the summer is especially rewarding because there is little precipitation, so conditions are dry and perfect.
If you enjoy biking with a group, you can also join one of the group biking tours that take place every day. These tours will likely take you through the best sights that Jackson Hole has to offer.
2. Hit the trails
For those looking to get their steps in, you might be interested in wandering around some of the many magnificent trails in the Tetons. The trails will be even more scenic this time of the year, with the vibrant summer colors on full display and the beautiful weather. You might even get to see some of the exquisite wildlife of the park foraging around, making hiking one of the most immersive things to do in Jackson Hole in the summer.
3. Rock climbing
If you want to take it to the next level, try your hand at rock climbing! There are many facilities in Jackson Hole where people of all skills and abilities can engage in the sport — be they beginners or experts, kids or adults. Exum Mountain Guides offers some of the best services and prices in Jackson Hole and even allows each customer to tailor the experience to their desires.
4. 42 Mile scenic loop drive
A drive through the domineering Tetons will undoubtedly be the most scenic and unforgettable drive of your life. You can roll down your windows to get a full, unobstructed view of the magnificent mountains, the exotic flora and fauna, and feel the chilly mountain air whipping your hair as you cruise on.
5. Scenic rafting trip
If you love being out on the water, you should take a scenic rafting trip on Snake River, one of the most popular spots in the park. These rafting trips do not run in the winter months due to adverse weather conditions, so summer is the best time of the year to do it! Just remember to take a light jacket with you since it can get a bit chilly on the water.
6. Wildlife tour
There are a ton of wildlife tours available in Jackson Hole for those who enjoy observing wildlife in its natural habitat! In fact, there are so many tours available from different providers that you are bound to find the perfect one for you, from all-day luxury tours to more affordable options, safaris to private tours.
7. Go for a swim
Jackson Hole offers a variety of beautiful lakes, rivers, hot springs, and waterfalls that tempt you into taking a dip in their crystal-clear waters. Once again, Snake River is a popular destination for swimming in the summer. Here, you can also indulge in other fun activities, such as rafting, kayaking, and more!
8. Fly fishing
A popular summertime activity in the Grand Teton National Park, fly fishing is one of the most relaxing things to do in Jackson Hole. You can gaze up at the awe-inspiring Tetons as you cast your fishing net into the water. Even better, the fish caught in the lakes of the park never fails to disappoint. The park boasts a ton of places for tourists to fish, with the beautiful Snake River and Jenny Lake being the more popular spots.
9. Check out Old Faithful
With 60% of the world’s geysers located in Yellowstone National Park, you don’t want to leave Jackson Hole without seeing a geyser erupt! Old Faithful is undoubtedly the most famous of them all and, luckily enough, it is in an easily accessible area of the park. Plus, it erupts around 20 times a day, so you have an abundance of opportunities to witness the phenomenon. This is easily one of the most fun summer activities in Jackson Hole, even for a local!
10. Camping
Perfect for those who love being outdoors and gazing up at the stars with a roaring campfire warming them up, camping is one of the most immersive summertime activities in Jackson Hole. You will have to reserve a spot in the campgrounds in advance, but you will be provided with all the necessary equipment you need. Just imagine perching a tent next to Jenny Lake, with the magnificent Tetons behind you, and nothing but nature around you.
11. Horseback riding
For fans of equine animals, horseback riding is just one of the many things you can do in Jackson Hole in the summertime. Tours are offered starting from Jackson Lake Lodge and Colter Bay Village, both scenic locations. The journey will take you through meadows brimming with wildflowers as you gaze into pristine, crystal-clear lakes and listen to the guides as they explain all about the park’s flora and fauna.
12. Go shopping!
For those who enjoy the occasional shopping spree, Jackson Hole has a variety of shops for you to spend hours in! The Yupp I-O Candy store offers a vast selection of delectable candies to choose between, from old-fashioned to locally made huckleberry products. If your kids want a memorable souvenir, head on over to Teton Toys to get them a keepsake they’ll cherish forever.
13. Unwind at a spa
Had a long day of exploring the outdoors? Wind down and relax in Jackson Hole’s world-class spas and saunas. If you’re looking for a full-service spa, the Four Seasons spa has become particularly infamous for its excellent service. Most spas in the area make a point to use ingredients sourced from the immediate surroundings to give visitors the authentic Tetons experience!
14. Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art
Jackson Hole is special for many reasons. One of them is the National Museum of Wildlife Art, the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the appreciation of wildlife in art. This is a must-see for those who are looking for a more cultured experience during their visit.
15. Take in the views on an aerial tram
Looking for the best views in Jackson Hole? Get the birds-eye view! Taking a ride in one of the gondolas located at Rendezvous Mountain will take you 10,000 feet above sea level on the largest vertical drop in the United States! The stunning panoramic views are guaranteed to take your breath away. At the top, you can wander off on a hike or grab food at a restaurant.
16. Drinks at Jackson Lake Lodge
After all the strenuous activities on this list, you might want to kick your feet up and relax at the end of your day. Head to the Jackson Lake Lodge, which offers one of the best views of sunset in the Tetons and grab a well-deserved drink. You can even sit out on the deck to drink in the stunning vista!
17. Family Portraits in the Tetons
Finally, what better way to remember your time in Jackson Hole with your favorite people than with a family portrait session in one of the most breathtaking backdrops on earth?! Book a session in the Tetons and create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
