What is Jackson Hole like during the summer?
Jackson Hole in summer is a paradise of lush mountain landscapes, endless outdoor adventure, and Western charm. Wildflower-filled meadows, pristine hiking trails, and abundant wildlife make it a prime gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. With warm days and crisp evenings, it's perfect for everything from rafting the Snake River to exploring vibrant town events and enjoying open-air dining.
Activities in Jackson Hole During the Summer
Summer in Jackson Hole is about adventure, discovery, and taking in the region’s wild beauty. Whether you're hiking beneath the jagged peaks of the Tetons, rafting the legendary Snake River, or spotting wildlife in Yellowstone, every experience is set in breathtaking Western scenery. With endless ways to explore—on foot, by boat, on horseback, or even from the air—Jackson Hole is also the perfect gateway to two of America’s most iconic national parks.
Looking to get the most prime, amazing experience in Jackson Hole? We curate unique adventures that will blow your mind.
Hiking and Scenic Trails in Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is possibly the most impressive national park in the Rocky Mountain West region of the US. Incredible elevations and rock formations abound, so if Jackson Hole beckons you in the summer, it's imperative that you have a look at hiking trails we share below. Popular options include the Taggart Lake Trail, a moderate hike with stunning views of the Tetons, and the family-friendly Phelps Lake Overlook. For more experienced hikers, the Cascade Canyon Trail provides an immersive alpine experience.
Adventurous Activities for Adrenaline Junkies
For adrenaline junkies, mountain biking at Teton Pass and Snow King Mountain offers thrilling downhill tracks and cross-country routes.
Mountain Biking in Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is home to rip-roaring biking options for all levels. The Jackson Hole Bike Park in Teton Village offers downhill tracks and trails perfect for beginners and experts alike.
Water Activities Activities: Rafting, Paddleboarding, and Kayaking
The Snake River is ideal for whitewater rafting, with outfitters like Mad River Boat Trips offering guided adventures, while String Lake provides a serene paddle boarding experience amid alpine scenery. For kayaking, Jenny Lake offers breathtaking views of the towering Tetons as you glide through its calm waters.
Zip Lining in Jackson Hole
Experience zip lining at Snow King Mountain, located just minutes from downtown Jackson. The course includes thrilling runs with incredible valley views, making it a favorite for families and adventurers alike.
Via Ferrata
This guided climbing experience at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort allows participants to ascend rock faces using fixed steel cables and ladders. It kind of combines rock climbing with
Fly Fishing in Jackson Hole
Fly fishing in Jackson Hole is world-renowned, with pristine rivers like the Snake River and Flat Creek teeming with trout. Other excellent spots include the Hoback River and Gros Ventre River, where anglers can enjoy peaceful surroundings and abundant fishing opportunities.
Have a Western Experience Like the 19th Century
A visit to Jackson Hole isn’t complete without embracing its Western heritage. Guided horseback rides through the valley and chuckwagon dinners at places like Bar T5 offer a fun and authentic taste of cowboy culture.
Wildlife Safaris and Tours
Wildlife tours in Jackson Hole offer an unforgettable way to experience Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Guided excursions by Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris, Backcountry Safaris, and Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures provide expertly curated trips where visitors can see moose, elk, bison, bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. These tours cater to all levels of adventure, offering everything from scenic drives to off-the-beaten-path wilderness explorations.
For those with more time, consider planning a Day Trip to Yellowstone or a multi-day itinerary to fully explore the park’s iconic landmarks. Highlights include Old Faithful, a geothermal wonder that never fails to amaze, and the Mammoth Hot Springs, known for its dramatic limestone terraces. Wildlife enthusiasts will love visiting Lamar and Hayden Valleys, prime locations to spot wolves, bison, and grizzly bears. Don’t miss the Grand Canyon, where you can hike to viewpoints like Artist Point to see out-of-this-world giant waterfalls and canyon landscapes.
We have a number of well-planned itineraries that will blow your mind including access to some of the best Dude Ranches in the Rocky Mountain West.
Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Summer with Family
Families visiting Jackson Hole in the summer will find no shortage of adventures, from wildlife encounters in Grand Teton and Yellowstone to scenic tram rides, rafting trips, and cowboy-style fun in town. Whether your family loves outdoor thrills or prefers a more relaxed pace, Jackson Hole offers unforgettable experiences for all ages.
Outdoor Adventures with the Family
Families visiting Jackson Hole can enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures perfect for all ages. Take a ride on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram in Teton Village, where you’ll ascend 4,139 vertical feet to Rendezvous Mountain and enjoy famous waffles at Corbet’s Cabin before exploring scenic trails. For a water-based experience, try Snake River family rafting, offering peaceful scenic floats or gentle whitewater thrills amidst stunning mountain views. Kids will love the Treetop Adventure Park at Snow King Mountain, which combines zip lines, climbing walls, and rope courses for an exciting day in the trees.
Educational and Nature Oriented Experiences
The Teton Raptor Center introduces families to hawks, owls, and eagles in an engaging and educational environment. Guided wildlife safaris are another option, giving families the chance to see iconic animals while learning about the local ecosystem. Elkfest, pictured above, is a festival held in the summer that features a great look into the natural wonders of elk skeletons. Star gazing is also huge in Jackson Hole, especially at locations like Schwabacher Landing and Jenny Lake. It's even been said that floating orbs will appear and disappear on a clear night sky, similar to recent East Coast events.
Places to Stay in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in the Summer
Jackson Hole offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to family-friendly hotels and unique lodges.
Luxury Hotels: The Ultimate Guest Experience
For ultimate luxury, the Caldera House has just eight impeccably designed suites and offers an exclusive, intimate retreat in the heart of Teton Village. Guests enjoy private balconies, a members-only lounge, and adventure concierge services to seamlessly plan guided hikes, wildlife safaris, and whitewater rafting.
Adventure meets elegance at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole. Here you will find a perfect blend of luxury and outdoor adventure, just steps from Grand Teton National Park, making it ideal for summer exploration. Start your day with a sunrise wildlife safari, then return for an afternoon swim in the outdoor infinity pool with panoramic views.
For modern comfort and style with out the ultra-luxe price tag, Hotel Terra and The Snake River Lodge provide prime Teton Village locations and excellent amenities. Enjoy on-site spas and easy access to biking and gondola rides.
For Secluded Serenity, Amangani sits high above Jackson, offering a true escape into nature with breathtaking views of the Snake River Valley. This ultra-luxurious retreat is designed for those seeking privacy and tranquility, with wellness-focused experiences, an infinity pool overlooking the Tetons, and curated excursions like horseback riding and scenic float trips.
For those wanting to stay in town, The Cloudveil, Modern Mountain Motel, and Hotel Jackson offer stylish, mid-range accommodations with easy access to dining, shopping, and outdoor adventures.
Avant Ski also has top access to condos in the area.
Summer in Jackson Hole is pure magic—where will you stay? We have exclusive perks at all of our partner hotels. Start planning today.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
The top place, in our opinion, for families is the Four Seasons, which has so many facilities for the kids to enjoy they might end up not wanting to leave the hotel. Families will love staying at the Snow King Resort, located near downtown Jackson, which offers easy access to hiking trails, mini-golf, and scenic chairlift rides. Additionally, Jackson Hole features a variety of condos and vacation homes, ideal for larger groups seeking extra space and convenience. Even if you have the best Airbnb management company in Denver, Colorado or Cheyenne, Wyoming, Jackson hole is a whole different story when it comes to children and families, and good accommodation is a must.
Jackson Hole Summer Fashion
Summer fashion in Jackson Hole combines practicality with Western-inspired style. With activities ranging from hiking to fine dining, layering is super important to staying comfortable as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. Breathable fabrics like cotton and lightweight wool are ideal for outdoor adventures, while a sturdy pair of hiking boots is a must.
For those who like watches, the watch scene in Jackson Hole during the summer is crucial. For the perfect finishing touch to your summer look in Jackson Hole, consider a Cobalt watch. This stylish yet durable timepiece seamlessly transitions from outdoor adventures to an evening out. Its sleek design and rugged construction make it an excellent companion for a day of exploring the Tetons before heading to a fine dining experience. For those who prefer a more refined and timeless accessory, a Gatsby watch elevates any outfit with its Art Deco-inspired elegance, making it the ultimate statement piece for sophisticated soirées and upscale gatherings in town.
Summer Dining in Jackson Hole
Dining in Jackson Hole combines exceptional flavors with breathtaking settings, creating a culinary experience to remember.
Casual and Family-Friendly Dining
In town, Persephone Bakery is perfect for stocking up on picnic essentials or enjoying a casual breakfast or lunch before hitting the trails. Gather is a local favorite for its creative comfort food and chilled out atmosphere. Nora's Fish Creek is a gem located halfway between Jackson and Teton village. Everything here is homemade, but don't miss the banana bread French toast that was featured in Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives in 2014.
Fine Dining and Local Favorites
The Snake River Grill, located in Jackson Town Square, is renowned for its upscale take on local flavors, offering dishes like elk tenderloin and truffle fries. In Teton Village, top options include Corsa, The Handle Bar, and Teton Thai (note: no reservations accepted, so plan ahead).
Relaxed Options
The Mangy Moose in Teton Village is an iconic spot combining a lively bar scene with a cozy restaurant. For Italian-inspired dining, try Villageria Osteria, which offers everything from pizzas to fine wines.
FAQ
Is Jackson Hole crowded in the summer?
Yes, summer is one of the busiest times in Jackson Hole, as visitors flock to explore Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. However, early mornings and weekdays tend to be quieter, and venturing beyond the main tourist areas offers plenty of peaceful experiences.
What is the weather like in Jackson Hole during summer?
Jackson Hole experiences warm days and cool nights, with daytime highs averaging in the 70s-80s°F (21-27°C) and nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s°F (4-9°C). The dry mountain air and high altitude mean it’s essential to wear sunscreen and pack layers.
What wildlife can you see in Jackson Hole in the summer?
Summer is an excellent time to spot wildlife, including bison, elk, moose, and even bears in Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Birds of prey, such as eagles and hawks, are also commonly seen, especially at the Teton Raptor Center.
Are there any special summer festivals or events in Jackson Hole?
Yes! Jackson Hole hosts several summer events, including the Grand Teton Music Festival, the Jackson Hole Rodeo, and Elkfest, which celebrates the annual elk antler auction. Local farmers’ markets and art fairs also add to the town’s vibrant summer scene.
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