12 Best Things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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!

Jackson Hole at a Glance

Jackson Hole is an iconic mountain valley that’s easy to navigate on your own, but a few local tips can make your trip even smoother. After several visits to this western beauty, we found these things especially helpful!

Rent a car: To get the most out of your trip, renting a car is essential. The valley is huge, and you’re going to want the convenience of having your own vehicle to explore. 

Pack smart: You’ll be exploring a lot of different terrain and experiencing high altitudes. Bring footwear with good tread, and pack athletic wear and extra layers for colder temperatures. Even in the summer at high altitudes, Jackson can get chilly! 

Start early: Grand Teton National Park gets busy, especially in summer. Heading out early means fewer crowds, easier parking, and better chances of spotting wildlife.

How I would spend 3 days in Jackson Hole

Three days is just enough to get a taste of everything, from scenic hikes and rafting adventures to laid-back evenings in town. This itinerary brings together our favorite ways to experience Jackson Hole, with a balance of outdoor adventure and local flavor.

Day 1: Kick things off with a hike at Taggart Lake before spotting moose, bison, and more on a Grand Teton sunset wildlife safari.

Day 2: Spend the morning on a scenic horseback ride, then paddle through class II and III rapids on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip.

Day 3: Take a full-day guided journey into Yellowstone on a Yellowstone National Park wildlife safari, where you’ll see geysers, hot springs, and the famous Old Faithful.

Want more? Take a look at our full 3-day itinerary here! 

Things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

1. Spot wildlife on a Grand Teton Safari

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!

2. Visit Yellowstone National Park and see Old Faithful, waterfalls, and wildlife

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!

3. Hit the trails

With all the beauty around Jackson Hole, it would almost be a crime not to hit at least one trail while you’re here! There are hikes for just about every ability and schedule, but these are a few of our favorites:

• Jenny Lake Trail – Best for lake views: At 7.3 miles (11.7 km), Jenny Lake Trail is the longest of our easier options, but the mostly flat trail makes it manageable. Along the way, you’ll get gorgeous lake views, wildflowers, and plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. Keep an eye out for moose, too!

• Taggart Lake Loop – Best short hike: Taggart Lake Loop is a 3.8-mile (6.1 km) loop that is a great choice if you’re short on time or hiking with the family. You’ll get beautiful lake views with the Tetons towering in the background without committing to a full day on the trail.

• Cascade Canyon Trail – Best for a bigger adventure: If you’re up for something longer and more challenging, Cascade Canyon Trail is a fantastic option. The 9.4-mile (15.1 km) route takes you through dramatic mountain scenery, with waterfalls, towering peaks, and beautiful views along the way.

Important Tip: Trailhead parking can fill quickly in Grand Teton National Park during summer, so we recommend starting early. 

4. Enjoy a scenic float trip on the Snake River

After several days of hiking, early starts, and action-packed adventures, you’ll likely be more than ready for a slower pace. This scenic Snake River tour gives you 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. Your guides will do all the work of steering and navigating while you sit comfortably and take it all in. No paddling, no stress—just a peaceful ride surrounded by waterbirds, towering trees, and wide-open views. 

What makes this trip so memorable isn’t just the views but learning from pros who know the river like the back of their hands. They’ll point out wildlife along the way and share stories about the area’s ecology, river history, and conservation efforts. It’s totally common to see bald eagles and moose along the river. It feels like you’re getting a front-row seat to the natural rhythm of the Snake River.

You can also add a picnic lunch, which includes plenty of food to satisfy the group. It breaks up the float time to make the day feel even more relaxed and complete.

This rafting trip will give you 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.

5. Enjoy Teton views on a horseback ride

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 gives you the chance to slow down, soak up the views, and tap into your inner cowboy.

You’ll ride through Buffalo Valley and into groves of Aspen trees with sweeping views of the Grand Teton rising behind you. The horses are steady, gentle, and well cared for, making the riding experience a breeze. The sound of hooves on the trail, the rustle of the trees, and the crisp mountain air make the trip feel like stepping into a slower, simpler time. 

The guides are all very well-versed in horse language and in making the group feel comfortable and confident, even if it’s your first time riding. They will patiently answer all of your questions and give great tips for a smooth ride. 

One of the best things about the tour is that nothing feels 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 lunch or dinner cookout ride, which 

This is more than just a trail ride—it’s a chance to step into a cowboy’s boots, slow down, and enjoy nature. 

6. Take on Snow King Mountain

If you want to stay close to town without giving up a day of adventure, Snow King Mountain is one of the easiest places to do it. Located right on the edge of Downtown Jackson, there’s enough going on here to fill a few hours or an entire afternoon.

One of our favorite things to do is ride the scenic gondola to the summit, where you’ll get incredible views over Jackson and the surrounding mountains. At the top, grab dinner or a cocktail with a view at Aurora Summit Restaurant.

During the summer, you can also catch live music at the summit as part of Snow King’s concert series, which brings in touring artists throughout the season. For something completely different, visit the Snow King Observatory & Planetarium for an evening of stargazing.

And that’s only part of what’s here! You can ride the mountain coaster, go ziplining, hit the mountain biking trails, or head out for a hike. With so many activities just minutes from downtown, Snow King is an easy place to add a little adventure to your day. Check out the Snow King Mountain website for current activities, hours, and tickets.

7. Cast a line on a guided fishing trip in Jackson Hole

If you want to try something totally different and very “Jackson Hole coded,” go fly fishing! It’s a great way to learn a new skill and get out on the water. This private fly fishing tour gives you all that with expert instruction, peaceful scenery, and a boat full of laughs and trout.

We love that this tour offers a full-day option. Not only will it give you more time on the water, but it also includes lunch to enjoy right on the riverbank with a view that totally beats any restaurant patio.

The guides are always super patient and able to make the techniques approachable, fun, and surprisingly successful- even if you’ve never touched a fly rod! They’ll show you how to cast, explain the rhythm, and assist when your lines get tangled. It won’t take long before you’re reeling in fish and cheering each other on.

Since it’s a private tour, the whole day is laid-back and personalized. You won’t feel rushed or crowded, and the one-on-one attention makes a huge difference when learning. Between casting from the boat, floating down scenic stretches of the river, and enjoying a riverside lunch, the day “flies” by (see what we did there?).

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!

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!

8. Unwind in the hot springs

Between touring, trekking, hiking, biking, swing dancing, and whatever else your heart desires in Jackson Hole, you’re bound to need a little reprieve. Luckily, there are a couple of great options for hot spring soaks to soothe your bones after a long day. 

Twenty minutes south of Jackson, you’ll find Astoria Hot Springs, which feels like an otherworldly oasis whether you’re visiting in the winter or warmer months. There are six pools to dip in, including a cold plunge and a children’s pool. 

They also have showers and dressing rooms, which makes it super convenient. Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times, so it’s worth booking your soak online ahead of time.

Granite Hot Springs is another natural spring about 25 miles (40 km) outside of Jackson that’s a bit more secluded. 

In summer, you can drive to the springs when the access road is open, but getting here takes a little more effort than Astoria. It has incredible views of the surrounding forest with an artificial concrete pool and a natural bath. In the winter, you can only access it via a dog sled or snowmobile tour… but that’s half of the adventure! 

9. Raft class II and III rapids on a whitewater adventure

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!

10. Spend a full day in Grand Teton National Park

Bopping around Jackson, you’ll see the Tetons from a distance, but this full-day Grand Teton tour gives you the chance to truly experience them up close. With a local guide, round-trip transportation, and meals taken care of, you’ll spend the day immersed in iconic scenery. You’ll get wildlife sightings and jaw-dropping views without worrying about the logistics.

Your guide will share fascinating stories about the park’s wildlife, geology, and history. They always have a way of sharing information that brings the park to life. It’s the best way to experience a true local’s passion for the park.

You’ll explore scenic favorites like Mormon Row, Oxbow Bend, and Jackson Lake, stopping often to take photos. You’ll likely see moose grazing and bald eagles tending to their nests along the way. At Oxbow Bend, there are often pelicans, swans, herons, beavers, foxes, or the occasional grizzly bear! 

One of the best parts of the tour is the shuttle boat ride across Jenny Lake (available in the summer months), which offers some of the most peaceful, up-close mountain views on the 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 keeps things personal, this nature tour feels like an all-inclusive experience. It’s truly one of the best ways to see the park in all its grandeur with expert local insight. 

Related Read: If exploring this area is a must, find out where to stay with our guide on the best hotels close to Grand Teton National Park!

11. Ride an e-bike through Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park

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!

12. Experience Downtown Jackson and see the famous Antler Arches

There’s no question that outdoor adventuring is the main attraction of Jackson Hole, but taking some time to visit the town hub at Jackson Town Square should not be missed!  

One of the first things you’ll notice is the four famous antler arches that frame the entrances to the square. They’re made from elk antlers that are naturally shed each year at the nearby National Elk Refuge. The arches are one of Jackson’s most recognizable landmarks, so make sure you grab a photo!

Beyond the arches, Downtown Jackson is incredibly walkable, with plenty of restaurants, galleries, and shops surrounding the square. It’s a fun place to wander for an hour or two, grab something to eat, and browse for locally made souvenirs.

If you visit during the summer, stick around until 6 pm for the town’s old-fashioned shootout reenactment. Actors dressed as cowboys take over the street for a short show. Afterward, you can head to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for live music, drinks, and a taste of Jackson’s classic Western nightlife. They also offer dance lessons every Thursday at 7 pm. 

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!

Related Read: For more options, our guide on where to stay in Jackson Hole breaks down the areas and hotels we love!

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!

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