Our Guide To The Top 10 Summer Activities In Jackson Hole
Summer is here and so are the adventures! Jackson Hole is an outdoor lover’s paradise – ripe with countless bucket-list activities on the water, in the air and over land. With such iconic attractions like Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks, the Snake River and more in our backyard, it’s easy to see why Jackson Hole is a must-do. Here are a few of our favorite summer activities in Jackson Hole:
1. Whitewater Rafting & Scenic Floats
A thrilling and scenic jaunt down the Snake River is definitely a bucket-list Jackson Hole activity! Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping guided whitewater trip or a relaxing scenic float, several outfitters around town including Dave Hansen Whitewater, Jackson Hole Whitewater and Teton Whitewater offer scenic, whitewater or combination trips. Outfitters provide life jackets, paddles and helmets, and wetsuits and booties are available should the water be a little chilly for your liking!
2. Wildlife Viewing
A wide array of wildlife call the Jackson Hole Valley home, including moose, bears, bison, elk, bald eagles, wolves and more. There are several scenic drives through Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks as well as the surrounding areas where you can catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures. There are also many local outfitters such as Scenic Safaris, Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris and Eco Tour Adventures, that offer half- and full-day wildlife safaris to ensure you get to the best spots and maximize your opportunity to witness our amazing wildlife in nature.
3. Visiting Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks
We are lucky to have Grand Teton National Park just a stone’s throw from Jackson, and Yellowstone just a short drive away. Both of these national parks offer many of the activities we’ve listed, from hiking and mountain biking to wildlife viewing, boating, fishing and sightseeing.
4. Stand Up Paddle Boarding & Canoeing
You may know that the Jackson Hole Valley is home to the infamous Snake River, but did you know we also have several stunning alpine lakes? In Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Lake, Leigh Lake, Jenny Lake, Phelps Lake, String Lake, Slide Lake and more provide unparalleled paddle boarding and canoeing locales. Outfitters around town offer rental and delivery options, such as Rendezvous RiverSports and Leisure Sports.
Our sister property, Mountain Modern, has some great posts on Stand Up Paddleboarding in Jackson Hole and Canoeing on Leigh Lake. Both are great options for “getting your feet wet”
5. Paragliding
Gain a truly awesome perspective of the Valley! Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (located in Teton Village) offers tandem paragliding rides during summer. These scenic flights can be tailored to your thirst for adrenaline, so if you want to do flips and sharp turns or just want a mellow scenic flight they are more than happy to provide that for you.
5. Hiking
There are several great hikes in Grand Teton National Park that fit all ability levels. You’ll encounter stunning waterfalls, alpine lakes, breathtaking views and wildlife! Jackson Peak and Sleeping Indian are also great hiking options in the Gros Ventre Range – across the valley from Grand Teton National Park.
View trails in Grand Teton National Park
View trails in the Gros Ventre Range
6. Mountain Biking
There is plenty of smooth single track around Jackson. For a nice long loop try Cache to Game Creek. Shadow Mountain is also a fun bike ride. You bike a dirt road up to the top and then take a fun single track trail down through the woods back to your car. For a shorter afternoon ride, Putt Putt is a fun trail. Most of the trails in the valley are cross country mountain bike rides. If you are looking to ride some good downhill trails try the bike park at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or head up to Teton Pass. Friends of Pathways have maps of the trails area.
7. Horseback Riding
It IS the Wild West, right? One of the best ways to take in the scenery in style is atop the back of a majestic horse. There are several companies that offer different sorts of rides to fit your fancy including Teton Horseback Adventures and Dry Ridge Outfitters. For a short easy ride, check out Spring Creek Ranch. For a longer, more adventurous ride look no further than Mill Iron Ranch. Saddle for an unforgettable adventure!
8. Sightseeing In The Tram
Hitch a ride on “Big Red” at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. You’ll soar high above the valley and enjoy sweeping views, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife too (moose, foxes and bears are frequent visitors). Up top, there are lots of options for hikes, photo-worthy views and of course, waffles.
Once at the summit, you have to grab a waffle at Corbet’s Cabin. This bucket-list activity affords unbelievable views alongside some absolutely delish fancy waffle combos like “The Trad” (featuring brown sugar butter) and “The Gateway” – creamy peanut butter + smoked bacon. Yummy!
9. Chuck Wagon Dinners
An authentic Western activity, chuck wagon dinners take you back in time to the era of covered wagons and campfires. Outfitters like Bar T5 and Dornan’s offer unmatched experiences that include covered wagons, traditional cowboy dinners and live entertainment. These dinners are a great experience for the entire family and give you a true glimpse of the Old West.
10. Experience The Rodeo
The Jackson Hole Rodeo has been a part of our cowboy culture for over 100 years. You’ll ride the edge of your seat while watching brave athletes compete in bareback riding, bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, saddle bronc riding, mini bull riding, and more. The rodeo runs Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays throughout the summer, but check their website for special events. Learn More
It’s hard to narrow down all of the amazing summer activities in Jackson Hole, but we hope this list gives you a few ideas to be sure to add to your list for your next trip. Hope to see you soon!
