Two horses pulling a wooden sleigh through the Bridger Teton National Forest while it is snowing. A red headed girl is posing next to the horses. This is in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Jackson, Wyoming (also known as Jackson Hole) in the winter deserves a top spot on your bucket list. When you step off the plane onto the tarmac at the only airport located inside of a national park, you will be in awe of the dramatic, snow-covered peaks of the Grand Teton mountain range towering above you. You might think that Jackson Hole is just a ski destination, but there are plenty of exciting adventures to enjoy that do not involve hitting the slopes.

Because Jackson is so close to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, it offers unique experiences both inside and outside the park boundaries. Whether you want to check off another national park visit, soak in natural hot springs, shop the square for western apparel, or go dog sledding through the forest, there is something here for everyone.

When I first moved to Jackson Hole, I was not a skier for the first few years I lived here. During this time, I discovered that this destination truly offers something for everyone, whether you ski or not. In this post, you will find the best activities for non-skiers in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I hope this guide helps you plan your winter adventure in my favorite little mountain town in the United States.

A snow covered panoramic view of the Teton Mountain Range in Wyoming.

ACTIVITIES

Jackson Hole may be known for its world-class skiing, but would you believe there are sixteen incredible activities to enjoy during your winter vacation?

Many of these experiences range from quick one-hour outings to full-day adventures in the parks. Be sure to bookmark this post so you have all the details to make your winter visit unforgettable.

One piece of advice I have is to plan your activities early and to check if they will be operating during your trip. Jackson Hole runs on a seasonal schedule, so depending on when you visit, everything listed below might be available, or only a few options may be open. If you need help deciding the best time to visit, take a look at my other post, The Ultimate Travel Guide to Jackson Hole. Now, let’s get into it!

A team of sled dogs pulling a sled behind them along a snowy tail outside of Grand Teton National Park in Teton Village, Wyoming. — **DOG SLEDDING**

If you have always dreamed of dog sledding through a quiet forest surrounded by snow-covered pine trees, this experience is for you. One of my favorite parts is that the companies often include a meet and greet with the sled dogs that will guide you along the trail.

SNOWMOBILING

Snowmobiling is perfect for travelers looking for a little more adventure in the mountains. Even if you have never tried snowmobiling before, Jackson Hole is an excellent place to learn. Because the valley sits within the caldera of an ancient volcano, much of the terrain is flat and ideal for beginners. Many people worry about avalanche danger, but that is only a concern on high mountain powder trails, which are reserved for very experienced riders.

Two moose laying down in the snow outside in Teton Village, Wyoming. — **WILDLIFE SAFARIS**

Although bears hibernate in winter, Grand Teton National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including moose, elk, pronghorn, bison, foxes, and more.
Wildlife safaris are one of the best way to spot native animals since the guides are true experts in the area. Many companies even use an app to share wildlife sightings with each other, ensuring you have the best experience possible. During the safari, you will stay inside a warm vehicle, so you can enjoy the views without braving the frigid temperatures. What could be better than that?

STARGAZING

Jackson Hole is home to some of the darkest night skies in the United States. It is the perfect place to look up and take in the thousands of stars twinkling above you. Since the dark skies occur year-round, you never have to worry about this activity being closed for the season. You can even do your own stargazing to save a little money!

A snowy forest in Yellowstone National Park that has a muddy hot spring boiling and steaming from the ground. — **VISIT YELLOWSTONE**

Yellowstone National Park closes its entrances each year from November 1st to around the second weekend in May. This happens because the park does not maintain its roads during the heavy snow season. If you visit Jackson Hole between December 15th and March 15th, snowcoach and snowmobile tours are the only ways to enter the park.
If you have a full free day, this is one of the most memorable ways to see Old Faithful and walk along the snowy boardwalks. When I joined a snowcoach tour to Yellowstone, it turned out to be my favorite visit yet, since there were no crowds at all.

ICE SKATING

Ice skating is the perfect afternoon activity as there is a rink in Town Square of Jackson and the other is in Teton Village at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The rinks typically open once the weather is consistently below freezing as they are both outdoor rinks.

Photo taken looking across a frozen Jackson Lake looking at the Grand Teton Mountain Range in Wyoming. — **VISIT GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK**

The Teton Mountain Range inside of Grand Teton National Park is one of the most stunning mountain ranges you will find in the world. It is home to abundant wildlife and snowcapped mountains that shoot up drastically into the air as there are no foothills.
The internal Park Road does close November 1st to May 1st, but during this time, you’ll still be able to stop along the pull-offs and take in the Teton Mountains.
Be sure to add Mormon Row, the original homestead, to your list! The road getting there in winter will end so pack snowshoes or snow boots depending on the time you visit. It is a couple thousand feet from where the road ends to the homestead so dress accordingly!

RIDE THE BRIDGER GONDOLA

The Bridger Gondola is located at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort takes you up 2,000 vertical feet to Piste Mountain Bistro. The resort does require you to have a lift ticket in order to access the enclosed gondola. With proof of a reservation made on OpenTable, lunch lift tickets are reduced to just $20/person. The tickets can be purchased right at the base before you head up! This restaurant is open for lunch only, so it does need to be a midday activity.

Night time picture of the antler arches in Town Square in Jackson, Wyoming. Snow covered the ground and lights illuminate the trees around. — **VISIT JACKSON**

If you’re wondering where to find the iconic Antler Arches, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, and the best spot to make custom hats, head to Jackson’s Town Square! It is so easy to spend a morning sipping on a coffee from Cowboy Coffee and exploring all the shops. Jackson is home to many souvenir stores, western apparel shops, and restaurants and bars.

SNOWTUBING

Snow King Mountain Resort located in Jackson, is the only place to snow tube. This is the perfect family friendly activity since the only requirement is that you must be 42” tall. There are three groomed lanes to ride down, and the magic carpet helps you get back up the hill fast to fit in more runs!

Two large brown horses are pulling a wooden sleigh with a guide holding the reigns of the horses in the forest in Wilson, Wyoming. — **SLEIGH RIDES**

Sleigh rides in Jackson Hole feel like you’re starring in your own Hallmark Christmas movie. There is nothing quite like sitting in a sleigh with your friends or family, cuddled under blankets as you’re being pulled through the forest of fresh snowfall. Be sure to bring a warm beverage as temperatures can fluctuate depending on the month you visit.

SNOWSHOE

Jackson is filled with outdoor enthusiasts who love a challenge year round. Snowshoeing is a way to enjoy the trails around you, even if it did just snow! I would be lying if I said it was easy, but if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy your own little winter wonderland, make sure to schedule a day for a snowshoe adventure! If it will be your first time, be sure to get a guide that can take you into the surrounding Bridger Teton National Forest or into Grand Teton National Park.

Redheaded girl sitting in Astoria Hot Springs in Jackson Hole, Wyoming along the Snake River. — **ASTORIA HOT SPRINGS**

What better way to enjoy the brisk winter temperatures than soaking in naturally heated hot springs?
Astoria Park and Conservancy has a beautiful mission that encourages everyone of all backgrounds to learn about our natural resources and enjoy them together.
Soak times can be reserved on their website and advanced reservations are highly recommend as they will sell out!

CROSS COUNTRY SKI

I know this may be similar to skiing but I find cross country skiing way more enjoyable than downhill skiing. There are guides that can take you along groomed trails where you can enjoy mountain views in all directions. It can become a workout but it’s a great winter activity to get your heart rate up all while enjoying the winter scene all around you.

A large herd of elk grazing in the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, Wyoming. It is a very snowy scene. — **ELK REFUGE SLEIGH RIDE**

The National Elk Refuge is home to the largest migrating elk herd in North America. Every winter, sleigh rides are offered that take you up close to these beautiful animals. These sleigh rides are just one hour long and is a photographer’s dream activity. This is something very unique to Jackson Hole so I hope you get to experience it for yourself!

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

Jackson is filled with many art galleries and museums to be explored. Located just across from the National Elk Refuge is the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which is a favorite of both tourists and locals with its interactive exhibits. If you’ve heard of Grizzly 399 (also known as the Beyonce of the Tetons), be sure to stop into the Mangelsen Gallery to see incredible footage of 399.

Two girls standing in front of a red helicopter about to take off in front of the Teton Mountain Range in Wyoming. — **HELICOPTER TOUR**

For an experience you’ll never forget, head to the skies on a helicopter tour and take in the snowy Teton Mountains, and meandering Snake River below. Who knows, you may even see some wildlife from the sky!

SHOOTING EXPERIENCE

To really embrace the old wild west days, make sure to add the Shooting Experience to your list! Every experience is customizable to each guest and the instructors have such a passion for what they do. This is a very fun and educational way to learn about guns, rifles, and pistols, in a safe environment.

JACKSON HOLE PLAYHOUSE

Another fun year-round activity is visiting the Playhouse for dinner and a show! The Jackson Hole Playhouse is the longest running professional theater in the state of Wyoming. Plus, be sure to check out the Saddle Rock Saloon Speakeasy that makes you feel like you’re back in the wild west days.

RESTAURANTS

There are a variety of restaurants to enjoy that offer fun atmospheres and great food. Below, you will find some of my personal favorite places to dine!

A hand holding a hot coffee cup in front of the Cowboy Coffee Shop in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. — **BREAKFAST:**

**Persephone’s Bakery**: A French inspired bakery and coffee shop serving breakfast and lunch.
**Cowboy Coffee**: One of the most popular coffee shops in Jackson Hole. They also have cute, Instagram-worthy coffee cups!
**Cafe Genevieve**: Enjoy breakfast or brunch inside a cozy, historic lodge in Town Square.
**The Virginian**: A classic spot serving comfort dishes that always hit the spot.

DINNER:

Calico: A family-friendly Italian restaurant located along the Moose-Wilson Road.
Teton Thai: The best Thai food in Jackson Hole. Be sure to stop in if you find yourself in Teton Village!
Corsa: An Italian restaurant inside the Caldera House in Teton Village.
Hand Fire Pizza: A first-come, first-served spot with big pizzas that always satisfy. It is located inside an old theater.
Gun Barrel Steak & Game: Experience true Wyoming dining inside a former taxidermy museum.
Gather: A cozy restaurant serving American classics.
Glorietta Trattoria: An upscale Italian restaurant with an exceptional cocktail menu.
Wild Sage: Currently considered the best restaurant in Jackson Hole, located inside the Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa.
Kampai: An upscale Japanese restaurant that serves the best sushi in Jackson Hole.
Snake River Grill: A white-tablecloth dining experience featuring refined American cuisine.
Steadfire Chophouse: A fine dining restaurant in the Four Seasons that specializes in fresh, local ingredients.
The Bistro at Cloudveil: A French inspired bistro located in Jackson’s Town Square.

BARS

Since there are two ski resorts in Jackson Hole, I have divided the best places for drinks into two categories: Après Ski Bars in Teton Village (near Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) and bars in the town of Jackson (near Snow King Mountain Resort). This way, you can choose where to go based on your location.

The Mangy Moose Saloon at night with a large star lit up outside. There are snowboards and skis on the ski rack out front with lots of snow on the ground. — **APRES SKI BARS IN TETON VILLAGE**

**The Mangy Moose**: Known for live music and a lively bar scene.
**The Handle Bar**: The only ski-in, ski-out après bar located at Four Seasons.
**Tram Dock**: Conveniently located at the base of the Aerial Tram, making it a popular spot for drinks.
**Spur Restaurant & Bar**: The best place for spicy margaritas just a short walk from the ski lifts.

A sunset shot of the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson, Wyoming. — **DRINKS IN JACKSON**

**The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar**: An iconic bar where the barstools are saddles, and there is live music every night except Sundays.
**Silver Dollar Bar**: Both bars inside are lined with silver dollars, and Bluegrass night takes place every Tuesday!
**Jackson Hole Winery**: Sip on local wines at this charming local winery.
**Roadhouse Brewery**: Stop by this brewery in Town Square before exploring the area.

SHOPPING

Jackson’s Town Square is the best area for shopping, as this is where most of the stores are located. It is easy to spend an afternoon walking around and exploring all the unique shops. Below are some of the most popular spots to check out!

Midnight Lunch Counter: Create custom trucker hats, tote bags, and more at an affordable price. It is the perfect souvenir!
Kemosabe: If you’ve ever dreamed of designing your own cowboy or cowgirl hat, be sure to add this stop to your list.
Lee’s Tees: The largest store for Jackson Hole and national park apparel.
Million Dollar Cowboy Gift Shop: What better way to remember your night out at the Cowboy Bar than with a souvenir?
Made: A local favorite featuring handcrafted items and unique gifts for everyone.

If you find yourself in Teton Village and want to do some shopping, the options are more limited than Jackson. However, there are a few wonderful stores worth visiting, listed below.

Jackson Hole Sports: The best place to find Jackson Hole souvenirs and outdoor apparel.
Teton Village Sports: A reliable shop offering winter clothing and outdoor gear.
The Mangy Moose: A fun gift shop filled with Mangy Moose-themed souvenirs.
Rodeo: An upscale women’s clothing boutique featuring stylish and curated pieces.

Redhaired woman standing on a balcony looking at the snowy scenery in Teton Village, Wyoming. She is wearing a spa robe and holding a coffee cup. — **RELAXATION**

**Spa at Four Seasons**: The only five-star resort in the area, offering a full-service salon and spa located in Teton Village.
**Amangani Spa**: A luxurious spa with views of the Teton Mountain Range. It is currently under renovation and scheduled to reopen in the summer of 2026.
**Body Sage Spa at the Rusty Parrot**: Rejuvenate with massages or facials at this beautiful boutique hotel in Jackson.
**Chill Spa in Hotel Terra**: A full-service medical spa located on the rooftop of Hotel Terra.

I hope this guide helps you feel inspired to enjoy Jackson Hole in the winter, even if you are not hitting the slopes. I would love to hear about your winter adventure in the comments below.

As always, thank you for reading. Be sure to share or save this post for later!

The Ultimate Non-Skiers Activity Guide to Jackson Hole, Wyoming

ACTIVITIES

RESTAURANTS

BARS

Liz Tillery

The Ultimate Non-Skiers Activity Guide to Jackson Hole, Wyoming

ACTIVITIES

RESTAURANTS

BARS

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