Plan Your Trip - Visit Jackson Hole (2024)

Jackson Hole refers to the 42-mile long valley between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountains. Trappers and mountain men used “hole” to describe high mountain valleys. Within Jackson Hole are the towns of Jackson, Teton Village, Kelly, Wilson, Moran, Moose, and Hoback Junction and also Grand Teton National Park. Jackson, population approximately 10,000, is the largest town in Jackson Hole.

Places to Go

With an authentic, spirited, and distinctive Western mountain character, Jackson Hole is a popular year-round tourist destination. More than 2.6 million people visit the valley annually. Truly, anytime is a good time to visit Jackson Hole. Every season has its own personality. The most popular season is summer. Most summer visitors come for Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Grand Teton National Park is in Jackson Hole, and Yellowstone is just north of the valley. Between them, these parks receive upwards of 3 million visitors every year.

According to U.S. News & World Report Travel, the best months to visit Jackson Hole are April, May, September, and October. The magazine picked these months, which are Jackson Hole’s two shoulders seasons, because travelers seeking a value can find lower rates and also restaurant specials then. Also, coming during either shoulder season means there will be fewer tourists.

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Most lodging options are concentrated in the Town of Jackson and Teton Village. If you’re planning to spend most of your time at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, stay in Teton Village to minimize your driving time. If you’re looking to explore more of the valley, including the nearby national parks, stay in the town of Jackson.

The closer you are to the Town Square, the greater the number of restaurants and shops within walking distance. From the Town Square, Teton Village and the southern entrance to Grand Teton National Park are almost equidistant: about a 20-minute drive. Of course, staying in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks is also an option; both have developed campgrounds, historic lodges, and modern hotels.

Places to Stay

Make sure to pack appropriately for the weather, since Jackson Hole experiences cold temperatures and snow during the winter months. Jackson Hole lies at 6,237 feet (1,901 meters) above sea level and is surrounded by mountains. The valley can experience all four seasons in a single day, even in the summer months, so it’s best to be prepared for any type of inclement weather.

Packing by Season

It’s the best way to experience Jackson Hole! Slow travel is a mindful approach to traveling that emphasizes taking the time to fully experience and appreciate a destination rather than rushing through it in a short amount of time. It often involves using more sustainable modes of transportation, staying in locally owned accommodations, and engaging in authentic cultural experiences.

Slow travel can also help reduce the impact of tourism on local communities and the environment by supporting local businesses and reducing carbon emissions. It allows travelers to connect with the places they visit on a deeper level and gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for their cultures and histories. If you don’t know, go slow!

Yes, both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are open year-round, though access to certain areas and roads changes by season. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. During these months, you can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives while also avoiding the peak tourist season. Winter is a unique and magical time with plenty to do besides downhill skiing.

No matter when you visit, be sure to plan for any kind of weather conditions. As Jackson old-timers will tell you, they’ve seen snow flurries every month of the year! Many of the national parks’ roads and facilities are closed due to snow and ice from late October to sometime in May, so it’s important to check the Wyoming road report, look up Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks’ current conditions, have good tires no matter the time of year, and plan accordingly.

At fine dining restaurants, reservations are always recommended. Between June and early October and December through March they’re absolutely necessary. To make sure you get the seating time of your choice, we recommend making reservations as far in advance as possible. Some restaurants take reservations up to 90 days in advance. During quieter times of year — mid-October through early December and April through early May — it’s possible to make reservations as late as a day or two ahead of time.

Dining