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Heading to Jackson Hole, Wyoming? You’ve hit the jackpot!
We’ve explored this rugged slice of the American West multiple times, and it never fails to blow us away. From misty morning wildlife safaris to thundering whitewater rafting runs, Jackson Hole is a place where adventure and jaw-dropping scenery come together in every season. Whether you’re here for the elk, the epic views, or the geysers just up the road in Yellowstone, this place has something for everyone.
Each tour on this list was handpicked for offering something truly special—from insider access to incredible guides, and unforgettable moments you won’t find in your average brochure. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Jackson Hole was this full-day tour to Yellowstone National Park! Our guide made it easy and informative to see Old Faithful, bubbling mud pools, buffalo, and so much more.
Check out the 1,100+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- 1. Spot wildlife on a Grand Teton Safari
- 2. Visit Yellowstone National Park and see Old Faithful, waterfalls, and wildlife
- 3. Enjoy a scenic float trip on the Snake River
- 4. Enjoy Teton views on a horseback ride
- 5. Cast a line on a guided fishing trip in Jackson Hole
- 6. Raft class II and III rapids on a whitewater adventure
- 7. Spend a full day in Grand Teton National Park
- 8. Ride an e-bike through Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park
- Where to Stay in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
1. Spot wildlife on a Grand Teton Safari
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 6:30 am or 4 pm
- Highlights: Spotting wildlife on a small-group Grand Teton wildlife safari, learning about the area’s ecology, history, geology, and culture, and enjoying photo stops along the way
- Inclusions: Local naturalist/guide, transport by open-air safari vehicle (June to mid-September) or by enclosed, heated/air-conditioned vehicle (mid-September to May), use of binoculars/scope, hotel pickup in select areas (November to mid-May), snacks, bottled water, soda
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 990+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Spotting wildlife in Grand Teton sounds easy—until you’ve wandered around for an hour wondering if that shadow was a moose or just a really weird-shaped rock. This small-group Grand Teton wildlife safari solved that problem fast. We booked the dusk tour, and it completely changed how we saw the park.
Riding in an open-air safari vehicle with binoculars in hand, we covered everything from dusty backroads to scenic highways as the wildlife came to life at golden hour. In colder months, they swap the open-air vehicle for a cozy enclosed one, so you’ll stay warm no matter the season.
We saw elk grazing in the distance, bald eagles soaring overhead, and even a black bear wandering across the road just feet from our vehicle. Our guide, Pat, helped us spot animals we never would’ve noticed on our own—like a camouflaged mule deer tucked behind the trees and a hawk perched way up high. It felt like we were part of a real-life nature documentary!
But our favorite part was the sunset. The whole valley glowed in warm light that made the Tetons look like they were on fire!
There’s also a sunrise option if you’re up for an early start. Morning light brings out different wildlife, and the calm, quiet roads make it easier to spot them on the move. But no matter which option you choose, you’re guaranteed some of the best views in Jackson Hole!
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this wildlife safari here!
2. Visit Yellowstone National Park and see Old Faithful, waterfalls, and wildlife
- Duration: 12 hours
- Time: 5:30 am–6:30 am
- Highlights: Full-day Yellowstone National Park and wildlife tour, explore Old Faithful and the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, learn about the area’s geology and ecology, spot wildlife
- Inclusions: Professional naturalist guide, hotel pick up and drop-off in select areas, transport, picnic lunch, snacks, beverages, use of binoculars/scope
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to visit Yellowstone in a single day is ambitious, especially when you’re not sure which roads are closed, which stops are worth it, or where the wildlife hangs out. This small-group Yellowstone tour from Jackson Hole made it easy to cover all the highlights without the stress of planning or driving.
Our day started early with hotel pick up, and within minutes, we were cruising through Grand Teton National Park on our way to Yellowstone. Our guide, Amanda, was super knowledgeable and made the 2.5-hour drive fly by with fun facts about the area’s geology, wildlife, and history.
Her spotting skills were next-level, too! We saw bison in Hayden Valley, elk in the distance, and even a fox trotting through the trees.
The highlights came one after another—watching Old Faithful erupt, staring down into the massive Lower Falls at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and walking past bubbling mud pots and rainbow-colored hot springs at Fountain Paint Pots.
This tour covers a lot of ground, but it never felt rushed. Just keep in mind that park entry fees (about $40 USD) aren’t included, but you can buy your pass right at the gate.
Thanks to the flawless itinerary, complete with lunch and snacks, and incredible guiding, this ended up being our favorite tour of the entire trip—and we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it. Check out the thousands of five-star reviews here and see why it’s a must-do in Jackson Hole!
Don’t miss out—secure your spot on this popular full-day tour here!
3. Enjoy a scenic float trip on the Snake River
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: 8 am, 11:30 am, and 4 pm
- Highlights: Rafting tour down the Snake River, spot wildlife, and a relaxing rafting experience for beginners
- Inclusions: Expert river guide, personal flotation device, bottled water, rain ponchos, picnic lunch (if option selected), small-group rafts available
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 560+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
After several days of hiking, early starts, and action-packed adventures, we were more than ready for a slower pace. This scenic Snake River tour gave us the perfect chance to unwind and experience the landscape from a whole new perspective.
The 13-mile (21-kilometer) float starts just outside town and winds through a stunning stretch of the Snake River. Our guides, Carter and Leo, did all the work steering and navigating while we sat comfortably and took it all in. No paddling, no stress—just a peaceful ride surrounded by waterbirds, towering trees, and wide-open views.
At one point, we spotted a moose grazing along the shore, and later, a bald eagle swooped overhead.
What made this trip so memorable wasn’t just the views, but learning from two pros who knew the river like the back of their hands. They pointed out wildlife we’d never have noticed and shared stories about the area’s ecology, river history, and conservation efforts. It felt like getting a front-row seat to the natural rhythm of the Snake River.
There’s also an option to include a picnic lunch, which we’d definitely recommend if you want to break up the float and make the whole experience feel even more relaxed and complete.
This rafting trip gave us a deeper appreciation for the region’s beauty and wildlife, and it’s one of the easiest tours to enjoy, no matter your age or activity level—we’d do it again in a heartbeat!
Book this tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
4. Enjoy Teton views on a horseback ride
- Duration: 2–4 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Explore Bridger-Teton National Forest on a horseback-riding tour from Moran, admire views of the Teton Range and Grand Teton National Park, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders
- Inclusions: Experienced guide, 2- or 4-hour horseback ride (depending on option selected), dinner cookout wagon ride or horseback ride (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 680+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
There’s something about experiencing Wyoming on horseback that just feels right. After days of road tripping and hiking trails on foot, this horseback riding tour through Bridger-Teton National Forest gave us the chance to slow down, soak up the views, and tap into our inner cowboy.
We rode through Buffalo Valley and into groves of Aspen trees with sweeping views of the Grand Teton rising behind us. The horses were steady, gentle, and clearly well cared for. And the sound of hooves on the trail, the rustle of the trees, and the crisp mountain air made the whole experience feel like stepping into a slower, simpler time.
I got paired with Cub, an older, mellow guy with a whole lot of personality, and our guide Arie was terrific. She patiently answered all of our questions, gave great tips for first-time riders, and made everyone feel confident in the saddle.
One of the things we loved most was that nothing felt rushed. As they say, you’re on cowboy time out here! The experience is less about covering miles and more about reconnecting with the landscape. You can even opt for a dinner cookout ride, which we’ll definitely be trying next time.
This was more than just a trail ride—it was a chance to step into a cowboy’s boots, slow down, and enjoy nature. Book your horseback adventure here and see why it’s a 10/10 experience!
Book this tour with over 500 5-star reviews here, before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Cast a line on a guided fishing trip in Jackson Hole
- Duration: 4–10 hours
- Time: 7:30 am
- Highlights: Half or full day fly fishing tour near Jackson Hole, learn some new fly fishing techniques, eat a delicious lunch on the side of the river (full day option)
- Inclusions: Private guide, all gear, lunch (full day option), snacks, drinks, hotel pick-up in downtown Jackson Hole
- Rating: 5 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We wanted to try something totally different—and fly fishing felt like the perfect way to slow down, learn a new skill, and get out on the water. This private fly fishing tour gave us all that with expert instruction, peaceful scenery, and a boat full of laughs and trout.
We went with the full-day trip and are so glad we did! Not only did we get more time on the water, but it also included lunch, which we enjoyed right on the riverbank with a view that totally beat any restaurant patio.
Our guide, Cam, was really great. None of us had ever fly fished before, but he made the techniques approachable, fun, and surprisingly successful. He showed us how to cast, explained the rhythm, and was endlessly patient—even when our lines got a little tangled. It didn’t take long before we were all reeling in fish and cheering each other on.
Since it’s a private tour, the whole day felt laid-back and personalized. We didn’t feel rushed or crowded, and the one-on-one attention made a huge difference. Between casting from the boat, floating down scenic stretches of the river, and enjoying a riverside lunch, the day flew by.
Whether you’re new to fly fishing or just want a more intimate experience, this is the way to do it. Read the glowing 5-star reviews here and see why this private trip is one of the best outdoor adventures in Jackson Hole!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
Related Read: If you’d like to see exactly how to plan a trip here, we spill our secrets from our last trip in this 3-day Jackson Hole itinerary!
6. Raft class II and III rapids on a whitewater adventure
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 3 pm
- Highlights: Whitewater rafting down Class II and III rapids, learning from an expert guide, and enjoying the scenery of the Snake River.
- Inclusions: Professional guide, transportation to and from the river from the rental office, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, splash jacket and life vest, pick up from select hotels, wetsuits for kids 12 and under
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 220+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
After a few days of mellow sightseeing, we were ready to trade peaceful scenery for something a little more action-packed. This classic whitewater rafting trip on the Snake River was just the thrill we were looking for—and way more beginner-friendly than we expected.
We tackled 8 miles (13 kilometers) of Class II and III rapids in a 17-foot (5-meter) raft, hitting legendary stretches like Big Kahuna, Champagne, and Lunch Counter. We screamed, laughed, and clung to the sides as the cool waves splashed over the raft. It was the kind of adrenaline rush that left us grinning from ear to ear!
Our guide, Joe, kept the whole thing running smoothly with clear instructions, good humor, and stories about the canyon’s history and wildlife that made even the calm stretches feel exciting. You could tell he really knew the river and loved it.
Between the rapids, we had time to float, recover, and even hop in for a quick swim. The gear provided was top-notch, and while splash jackets were included, we were grateful for the booties they had available to rent. They were definitely worth it for a non-slip grip and warmer feet!
Whether it’s your first time rafting or just your first time on the Snake, this trip strikes the perfect balance of fun and manageable challenge. The mix of fast-moving rapids, peaceful float time, and Joe’s storytelling made it feel like three adventures in one—wet, wild, and totally unforgettable!
Reserve your whitewater adventure here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
7. Spend a full day in Grand Teton National Park
- Duration: 8–9 hours
- Time: 6:30 am
- Highlights: Full-day wildlife and nature tour of Grand Teton National Park, seeing Mormon Row barns, Oxbow Bend, and Jackson Lake, and enjoying a cruise on Jenny Lake (seasonal)
- Inclusions: Expert local guide, national park fees, breakfast, lunch, round-trip transportation, shuttle boat ride on Jenny Lake (May 15–September 30), small group tour
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’d seen the Tetons from a distance, but this full-day Grand Teton tour gave us the chance to truly experience them up close. With a local guide, round-trip transportation, and meals all taken care of, we spent the day immersed in iconic scenery, wildlife sightings, and jaw-dropping views without worrying about the logistics.
Our guide, Brian (or “Stone,” as he introduced himself), was friendly, knowledgeable, and full of fascinating stories about the park’s wildlife, geology, and history. He had a way of sharing information that made the park come alive. It was like we were hiking with a naturalist who genuinely loves showing off his backyard.
We explored scenic favorites like Mormon Row, Oxbow Bend, and Jackson Lake, stopping often to take photos and watch a group of moose grazing nearby. At one point, we spotted a bald eagle perched high in a tree, which was so cool to see in real life!
One of our favorite parts was the shuttle boat ride across Jenny Lake (available in the summer months), which gave us some of the most peaceful, up-close mountain views of the entire trip. There’s also an optional one-mile hike to Hidden Falls once you cross the lake—an easy walk with a rewarding waterfall view at the end.
With meals, binoculars, and a small group that kept things personal, this nature tour felt like an all-inclusive experience. Just grab your spot early so you don’t miss out!
Book your wildlife and nature day tour here and enjoy the best of Grand Teton!
8. Ride an e-bike through Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am to 5 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy an e-bike ride through the most scenic routes in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park with door-to-door delivery service
- Inclusions: Use of electric bicycle, helmet, bike lock, tool kit, bike pathways map, e-bike delivery and pickup service
- Rating: 5 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Some days call for structure, but others? Total freedom. This e-bike rental in Jackson Hole gave us exactly that. With delivery right to our lodge and a flexible pickup time, we could start and end the day on our terms, without having to plan around someone else’s schedule.
The whole process was seamless. The bikes were dropped off, fitted perfectly, and we got a quick and easy intro on how to use everything. From there, we were off—cruising the paved paths from Jackson up to Moose and looping back through Grand Teton National Park.
Touring by e-bike was such a fun and effortless way to take it all in. We rode past wide open meadows dotted with bison, glided alongside the Snake River, and stopped often to snap photos of the Tetons rising in the distance. Every stretch of the trail offered something new—wildflowers, bald eagles, and views that looked straight off a postcard.
They offer a range of bikes to suit different riding styles, from relaxed cruisers to family-ready cargo models, so everyone can find their perfect fit. The included helmet, lock, and map made it easy to ride with confidence. And if you’re not sure where to go, a guide can even help you find the most scenic routes.
Whether you’re riding solo or with the whole crew, this rental is the easiest way to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Jackson Hole at your own pace!
Secure your e-bike rental here and ride the Tetons with total freedom!
Where to Stay in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Tucked between the soaring Tetons and wide-open wilderness, Jackson Hole is a dream destination for skiers, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re here for the slopes, the wildlife, or the charm of the Old West, finding the right place to stay makes all the difference.
From cozy lodges to modern boutique hotels, here are the best places to stay in Jackson Hole for every travel style and budget.
Luxury – $$$
For an intimate luxury escape in Jackson, The Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa delivers on charm, comfort, and location. This newly renovated boutique lodge offers elegant rooms with cozy fireplaces, a full-service spa, and exceptional dining at Wild Sage—all tucked just a short stroll from downtown Jackson. Guests rave about the personalized service, tranquil atmosphere, and high-end amenities that make it feel like a secluded mountain retreat without sacrificing convenience.
Prices typically range from $500–$1,500 USD per night, depending on the season and room type. View options and book your stay via Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Mountain Modern Jackson Hole is a fantastic mid-range hotel in the heart of Jackson, just a 5-minute walk from Town Square. With cozy, modern rooms featuring kitchenettes, an indoor pool, hot tubs, and on-site dining, it’s an ideal base for summer adventures and snowy escapes. Guests love the mountain-chic vibe and convenient location close to shops, restaurants, and parks. There’s even storage for ski and snowboard equipment, making it extra convenient for winter travelers.
Prices vary by season from around $150–$500 USD per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Looking to stay central in Jackson Hole without blowing your budget? Cache House offers a sleek, social yet peaceful bunkhouse vibe just minutes from Grand Teton National Park. Each bunk has a fan, privacy curtain, and cozy bedding, with clean shared bathrooms. The relaxed lounge is great for winding down, and the whole space feels well-designed. It’s a solid pick for travelers who want style and savings in a prime location.
Beds start at around $40 USD per night. Head to Booking.com to check availability and book your stay!
For more options, see all of Jackson Hole’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We love any outdoor destination that we can find, and Jackson Hole was just that! If you’re looking for a charming small town with great access to mountains, hikes, and wildlife, this is the trip for you. Follow our list of best things to do, and we know you’ll have a fantastic time in Jackson Hole!
Before you go, be sure to check out our other USA blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers and have tons of resources to help you plan an awesome getaway. Here are a few related posts that you might enjoy:
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