Summer In Jackson

The southern boundary of Grand Teton National Park is four miles from our front door; the southern entrance to Yellowstone National Park is about one hour farther. These parks couldn’t be more different—the former has dramatic mountains that soar up more than a vertical mile from the valley floor without any foothills to temper their rise; the latter has otherworldly geothermal features and the world’s highest concentration of geysers. Both are home to grizzly and black bears, bison, wolves, mountain lions, more than 300 species of birds, elk, and moose, among other animals. Go on a safari with a local naturalist guide to turn your park visits into an experience of a lifetime.

The eight-mile Snake River Canyon is designated a Wild and Scenic River and is home to Class II and III rapids like Lunch Counter, Champagne, and Big Kahuna. There are also a couple of (short) sections of flat water where you can jump out of the boat and take a swim.

There are outfitters that offer scenic—meaning there are no rapids to negotiate—floats on several different sections of the Snake River. Some of these start in Grand Teton National Park. Others are south of the park. Allow our staff to help you pick the stretch that’s best for you. Wildlife like moose and bald eagles can be seen on any of the scenic stretches. (Much of the Snake River in Jackson Hole is designated a Wild and Scenic River, after all.) Raft guides will also teach you about the valley’s geology, wildlife, and history. This activity is suitable for all ages. Packages with meals and/or paired with whitewater rafting are available.

Hotel Jackson Exclusive Wildlife Safari + Photography Workshop!

This curated experience includes private instruction from a professional photographer while you explore famous Jackson Hole scenes. Learn about Ansel Adams, David Brookover, Thomas Mangelsen, and William Henry Jackson as you capture your own images. After a full day in the field, pick your favorite shot and we’ll have it printed and shipped to your home. A signed copy of David Brookover’s The Road is included.

Whether you want a workout or a relaxing walk, we can set you up on a hike with a naturalist guide. Together, you and your guide will determine the hike that best suits your fitness level and interests. As you hike, your guide will educate you on the flora, fauna, geology, and history of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Combination tours pair hiking with yoga, hot springs, and more.

There are more than 100 miles of mountain biking trails in Jackson Hole, including mellow routes and steep, technical downhill trails. There are also 65 miles of paved bike/pedestrian pathways—so there’s truly a bike ride for everyone. Rides can take you through mountain meadows abloom with wildflowers, aspen groves, or along the Snake River.

Half-day ATV trips into the Bridger-Teton National Forest are available from May through mid-September and full-day trips are available from July through mid-September. In addition to getting your adrenaline going, your expert guide will teach you the basics of ATV use and safety. This activity includes the use of helmets and riding goggles. Full-day trips include lunch. Unguided ATV rentals and private tours are also available. Each ATV can carry one or two riders.

When you dream of exploring Jackson Hole, you’re likely on horseback—there is no more Western experience than saddling up and taking off into the mountains. We can help you book trail rides ranging from a one-hour orientation to a full-day ride. Your ride could take you into the Tetons, the Gros Ventre Wilderness, the Snake River or Hoback Canyon, or up Granite Creek. Up the uniqueness of this experience by adding steak dinner, or by pairing it with fly fishing.

Want to rock? The Tetons are known as the birthplace of American mountaineering and climbers come here from across the country to test their skills on the range’s granite peaks and spires. Whether you’re looking for the challenge of climbing the 13,770-foot tall Grand Teton, want to try rock climbing for the first time, or want to set up a rock climbing adventure for the whole family, we can help you book it.

Jackson Hole is a fly fisherman’s/woman’s paradise. The valley is home to some of the best and most diverse fly fishing in the lower 48 states, and the area has a couple of endemic species of trout found nowhere else. The Snake River and Flat Creek are on many angler’s bucket lists. And then there are the numerous backcountry creeks only locals know about. There’s so much to choose from Jackson Hole, we recommend even expert anglers go with a guide. Beginners can get tips on casting and choosing flies. Fly fishing adventures are usually a half-day or full-day.

Have you heard of SUPing? Short for stand-up paddleboarding, the newish sport has been sweeping the valley’s rivers and lakes the past several years. You can still rent kayaks and hire kayak guides, but SUPs have less steep learning curve. (For example, if you fall off a SUP you don’t have to roll yourself back up like you do in a kayak.) If you want to head out on your own, ask us for our favorite places to do both (hint: String Lake is almost always fun, and it’s a great lake for swimming). Or, if you want instruction, we will help you find a guide.

Seeking serenity? As the first rays of sunlight hit the valley, float over a working cattle ranch adjacent to Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy views of the Snake River, the Yellowstone Plateau, and seven different mountain ranges, including the Tetons, the youngest (and, in our opinion, the most stunning) range in the Rockies. Flights include a champagne or juice toast and are appropriate for families.

Jackson Hole’s rodeo tradition stretches back more than 100 years. The current Jackson Hole Rodeo includes traditional events such as bronc riding, roping, bull-riding, and barrel racing, all of which demonstrate skills that are key to working cattle. The rodeo is walking distance from Hotel Jackson and is every Wednesday and Saturday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Have a blast—pun intended—safely learning about and using various firearms in a controlled environment and under the care of highly trained instructors. Choose from a variety of guns, fired on a western-style outdoor range with targets out to 600 yards. This is a family-friendly activity.

Yes, you might have to briefly suspend play here to let a moose cross the fairway. And a bald eagle circling overhead might distract you. Golf in Jackson is unlike anywhere else you’ve played. (Also, because of the valley’s elevation of about 6,400 feet, drives go noticeably farther.) Golf courses in Jackson Hole feature challenging play, creative water hazards and sand traps, modern equipment, exceptional pros, and, of course, spectacular views. Let us help you decide which course best suits your game and arrange a tee time.

Soar around some of the tallest peaks in the Tetons in a Cessna. This 60- or 90-minute scenic flight offers an intimate bird’s eye view of the valley as it heads up the western slope of the Tetons. Photo opportunities abound. Geologists say seeing the valley from high above is the best way to understand Jackson Hole’s rich geology. Options include a private family tour and sunset flights.