37 Summer Activities in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
There’s truly no place like Jackson Hole, where you can hike through majestic mountains, float down the Snake River, or sip cocktails on a rooftop while gazing at the youngest mountain range in North America. Summer is the reason I moved to Jackson Hole right after college, and once you experience a summer in the Tetons, it is a hard place to leave.
With that said, there are endless activities for everyone to enjoy. So, let’s dive in! Below, you’ll find a list of the best things to do in Jackson Hole during the summer.
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1). Visit Grand Teton National Park
The Tetons are arguably one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in North America. There’s nothing quite like the jagged peaks rising dramatically from the valley floor here in Wyoming. Inside the park, you can enjoy hiking, climbing, floating on the river, abundant wildlife and breathtaking views unlike anywhere else.
2). Explore Yellowstone National Park
Be sure to add a few days to your trip to explore Yellowstone National Park. You can typically cover the southern loop in a day, but if you plan to explore the northern part of the park, consider staying in West Yellowstone or near Old Faithful. Yellowstone is home to iconic sights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and so much more.
3). Ride the Aerial Tram
The Aerial Tram is a year-round staple in Teton Village. In the summer, you can ride more than 4,000 feet up in elevation and take in 360-degree panoramic views of the Tetons, the mountains on the Idaho side, and the Snake River winding through the valley below. Be sure to stop by Corbet’s Cabin for refreshments and their famous gourmet waffles! There are also great hiking trails at the top, and a newly added viewpoint that offers an incredible walk-out experience.
4). Fly Fishing
The Snake River is a popular destination for fly fishing during the summer months. You can head out with a guide for a full or half day of fishing. If fly fishing isn’t your thing, there are also nearby lakes where you can try spin casting instead.
5). Jackson Hole Rodeo
If you’ll be in town on Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday during your trip, be sure to check out the Jackson Hole Rodeo! This family-friendly event runs from the end of May through the first week of September. It’s a popular summer activity that often sells out, so make sure to book your tickets early!
6). Horseback Riding
Experience Wyoming on horseback with a two-hour, half-day or full-day adventure through the Bridger Teton National Forest. This is one of the most popular activities in the area, offering a true Western experience. Horseback rides also tend to be one of the more affordable options, making it accessible for just about anyone who wants to give it a try.
7). Hiking
I could go on and on about hiking in Jackson Hole - there are so many amazing trails that even after three years here, I’ve barely scratched the surface. Some of my favorite hikes include Jenny Lake to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls, Phelps Lake and Delta Lake. I highly recommend hiking in the park for the stunning views, but there are also plenty of incredible trails in the surrounding National Forest.
8). Chuckwagon Dinner & Show
A true western experience in Jackson Hole is the Chuckwagon Dinner and Show. Held at the Bar T 5 Ranch, this experience begins with a covered wagon ride down to the dinner and show location. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into the Old West as you enjoy a hearty meal and live entertainment!
9). Helicopter Ride
Helicopter tours are a fantastic way to take in the views of the Tetons from the air. As long as the weather is cooperates, these tours operate daily throughout the summer. Many companies offer a variety of trip types and packages, whether you’re a couple, a family, or a group of friends looking for a unique adventure.
10). Boat Rentals at Jackson Lake
Jackson Lake is the only lake in Grand Teton National Park where motorboats are permitted. Located at the base of the Tetons, it’s the largest lake in the park. As long as water levels are sufficient, the marina operates from late May through September. Signal Mountain Lodge offers a variety of boats at affordable rates. Some can be reserved in advance, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
11). Go on a Wildlife Safari
Jackson Hole is home to a wide range of wildlife including bears, moose, elk, wolves, pronghorn, deer, foxes, and more. Many local companies offer sunrise and sunset safaris year-round for the chance to view wildlife in the parks.
12). Whitewater Rafting
The Snake River Canyon offers some of the best whitewater rafting in Jackson Hole. This four-hour adventure combines thrilling rapids with stunning canyon views along the way. The rapids are rated class II-III, making them perfect for beginners!
13). Visit Snow King Resort
Snow King Resort, located right in the town of Jackson, is packed with fun activities like the Cowboy Coaster, Alpine Slide and scenic gondola rides. It’s also home to North America’s steepest zipline, perfect for thrill seekers!
14). Explore Jackson
A visit to the town of Jackson is a must while you’re in Jackson Hole. This is where you’ll find the iconic antler arches, unique local shops, and the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. It’s a great spot to grab lunch or spend an evening exploring, and don’t miss the swing dancing, which is my personal favorite!
15). Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of my favorite and most peaceful activity experiences in Jackson Hole was a hot air balloon ride. While it does require an early meet time, you’ll get to watch the balloon inflate before taking off on an incredible journey over the valley floor. Be sure to bring your camera as you’ll enjoy stunning mountain views and might even spot elk, moose, or bears from above!
16). Mountain Biking
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s bike park offers some of the best mountain biking in the area. With trails suitable for every skill level from beginner to expert, you can access them all via gondolas at the base of the mountain. If you’re new to mountain biking, this is a great place to start. Guides are available, and the resort provides all the gear and bikes you’ll need.
17). Rock Climbing
Whether you are a first-time climber or an experienced one aiming to summit the Grand, Jackson Hole offers a variety of climbing routes. The Via Ferrata, operated by Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, is the newest guided rock climbing experience in Teton Village. It’s a great option for those looking to try high alpine climbing. All gear is provided, so you can simply show up ready for an adventure.
18). Scenic Float Trip
If you’re interested in a water-based activity but whitewater isn’t your style, I highly recommend a scenic float down the Snake River. These floats typically run parallel to the Tetons and follow a calmer section of the river, allowing for a relaxing and picturesque journey surrounded by nature.
19). Explore Rendezvous Park
Rendezvous Park is located between the towns of Jackson and Wilson. It offers scenic walking trails, ponds, views of the Tetons, and is home to the Mama Mimi troll. As you explore the park, you may come across this troll, which is part of an art installation created by Thomas Dambo.
20). The National Museum of Wildlife Art
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is one of the coolest art museums in Jackson Hole. Perched on a small hill, it features life-size sculptures of native wildlife. The museum also showcases fascinating historical exhibits. After exploring the museum, you can enjoy lunch at Palette while taking in the beautiful views of the valley below.
21). Golf
Teton Pines and Jackson Hole Golf and Tennis are the two public golf courses available to visitors. Both offer beautiful mountain views and allow you to book tee times in advance.
22). Jackson Hole Playhouse
The Playhouse is a performing arts theater that hosts shows year-round. You can join them for dinner before the performance and enjoy an evening of live theater in the oldest building in Jackson Hole.
23). Soak in Hot Springs
Astoria Hot Springs is an excellent spot to relax in natural hot springs. Astoria has two locations: one beside the Snake River and the other within Astoria Hot Springs Park.
24). Visit the Breweries
Snake River Brewing, Roadhouse, and StillWest are the three local breweries in town. Each brings its own unique personality to its location, making them must-visit spots while you’re here!
25). Luxury Wooden Boat Tour
Jackson Hole Vintage Adventures is the only luxury tour operator in Jackson Hole offering wooden boat tours down the Snake River. They also own a private ranch where you’ll be treated to a high-end dinner, followed by a relaxing evening in your own teepee on the property.
26). Elk Refuge
While elk are typically only found in the National Elk Refuge during the winter, this area is still a beautiful place to drive through year-round. There’s also a scenic walking and biking trail that leads north towards Grand Teton National Park.
27). Floating on the Lakes
One of the most peaceful lakes to float on in Grand Teton National Park is String Lake. The water is incredibly clear, allowing you to see far below the surface. It’s also one of the parks shallower lakes, making it ideal for families with young children. There’s a large boulder in the middle of the lake you can swim to and jump off for some added fun!
28). Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
This iconic bar features saddles as bar stools and a dance floor perfect for swing dancing - definitely worth a visit! I recommend grabbing dinner beforehand, then heading over to enjoy live music at 8:30pm, which plays every night except Sundays.
29). Take a Gondola Ride to Piste Mountain Bistro
The Bridger Gondola in Teton Village climbs over 2,700+ feet in elevation and takes you to Piste Mountain Bistro, a mountaintop restaurant. During the day, you can ride the gondola to access scenic hiking trails, and in the evening, enjoy fine dining while watching the sunset cast its alpine glow across the mountains. Note: The gondola is closed Friday and Saturday evenings for private events.
For true adrenaline junkies, tandem paragliding over Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a must. You’ll meet with a guide, take off from the mountain, and land at the base of Teton Village. The views from the top are breathtaking, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the guides can even perform aerial tricks. Flights run twice daily, so booking in advance is highly recommended as spots fill up quickly.
31). Off Road Adventures
Another exciting way to explore the area is by renting ATVs or side-by-sides to venture into the surrounding national forest. There are a variety of trails that are suited for everyone from beginners to experts, and several companies offer guided tours if you’re not comfortable navigating unfamiliar terrain. Side-by-sides are street legal, allowing you to drive them straight from the lot to your destination.
32). Biking
Jackson Hole also boasts an incredible paved pathway system popular for biking. The trails connect Teton Village, Wilson, Jackson, and Grand Teton National Park, offering access to almost everything in the area. You can rent bikes in Teton Village, Wilson or Jackson and hop on the pathway anytime. If you prefer a more structured ride, several companies offer guided biking tours as well.
33). Shooting Experience
The Jackson Hole Shooting Experience is one of the top-rated activities in the area. The coaches personalize your time on the range and do an excellent job of keeping you safe while ensuring you having a blast. They offer a variety of different experiences, with some of the most popular being clay shooting and the multi-gun rifle and pistol experience.
34). Camping
Jackson Hole is home to many great camping sites, whether you’re in an RV, car camping, or pitching a tent for the night. One of my personal favorites is Shadow Mountain, where every campsite has a view of the Tetons - offering unreal sunrises and sunsets.
35). Drive the Moose-Wilson Road
Moose-Wilson Road is a winding but beautiful shortcut that connects Teton Village to Grand Teton National Park. This road passes directly through moose habitat, so please be mindful of the speed limit when exploring. My favorite times to drive it are at dawn and dusk, when wildlife is most active. If you’re visiting in the fall, this is also a great spot to see the vibrant fall foliage!
36). Visit Idaho
The Teton Mountain Range is unique in that it closely follows the Wyoming-Idaho state line. If you head to the town of Wilson and drive over Teton Pass, you will end up in the charming town of Victor, Idaho. Victor hosts Music on Main, a free concert series held in the town park every Thursday during the summer.
37). Stargazing
Wyoming is home to some of the darkest night skies in the U.S., making it an incredible place for stargazing. While there are several companies offering guided stargazing tours, you can also venture out on your own on a clear night. The shooting stars that streak across the sky are truly unique and unforgettable sight.
I hope this helps you discover some great things to do during your time in Jackson Hole! I’d love to hear about your trip. Feel free to comment below or fill out my contact form to let me know if this helped with your trip planning.
As always, thank you for reading and sharing this post. I appreciate each and every one of you!
