What to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming Year-Round

The mountain town of Jackson, commonly known as Jackson Hole, is situated in the Teton Range in the Jackson Hole valley, and has long been a favorite destination for snowsports enthusiasts. (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort frequently tops the list of ski resorts in North America, and it’s only one of three ski resorts in the area!) But even if you’ve hung up the skis for the season — or never picked up the sport — there’s plenty to experience in this mountain town all 12 months of the year. Here are 10 activities to check out.

1. Cross Yellowstone National Park off your bucket list

The south gate of Yellowstone National Park is just 60 miles from Jackson Hole. It’s worth the drive whether you have a single day or a whole week to explore. Billed as the world’s first national park, Yellowstone is simply bursting with natural beauty, from watching Old Faithful erupt some 130 feet in the air to spotting over 300 species of birds and mammals like bison, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, bears and more. Can’t get enough of national parks? Make time to visit Grand Teton National Park, which is just five miles from Jackson Hole. This awe-inspiring park is known for its spectacular scenery and rugged mountains.

2. Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art

All the natural beauty surrounding Jackson has inspired many artists whose works are a must-see at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. The museum has more than 5,000 pieces of wildlife art, including works by Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol and John James Audubon. Plan your visit around lunchtime and visit the on-site restaurant, which offers incredible views overlooking the National Elk Refuge.

3. Take a tour on horseback

Adventure awaits on half-day, full-day or overnight horseback expeditions outside Jackson, available through multiple outfitters. Whether you’ve never ridden a horse or you’re a seasoned rider, you’ll love the opportunity to take in the valley’s scenery from this vantage point. Double down on the experience with a stay at a local dude ranch.

4. Sip on local spirits

Jackson Hole Still Works is the hometown (and only) craft distillery, and it’s worth a stop to sample spirits handmade in small batches from Wyoming-grown ingredients. Each year the distiller chooses a local artist’s work to feature on their labels. You can even book a distillery tour to learn how spirits are made.

5. Embrace your inner cowboy

The town of Jackson has a decidedly Wild West feel, so if you’re going to make the most of your visit, you should probably look the part. In downtown Jackson and Teton Village, you’ll find boutiques selling Western gear, from boots and belt buckles to gifts and memorabilia.

6. Dine in a log cabin

Just a half block from Jackson’s town square in one of the city’s last remaining historic structures is a log cabin listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, Cafe Genevieve offers a cozy ambience and Southern-inspired brunch items like fried chicken and waffles, biscuits with Cajun gravy, and muffulettas. Pair your meal with bottle service mimosas or a spicy Bloody Mary.

7. Get a birds-eye view of the valley

Ascend 4,139 vertical feet in just 12 minutes on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. As you ride “Big Red,” you’ll discover 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley and surrounding mountains. At the top, you can enjoy hiking and running trails, try rock climbing, or simply savor some “Top of the World Waffles” at Corbet’s Cabin, elevation 10,450 feet.

8. Enjoy some live music

Jackson Hole has a great live music scene and boasts a year-round concert schedule. Whether you want to listen to live country music at a casual Western pub, take in a free outdoor concert, or enjoy classical music at the annual Grand Teton Music Festival, there’s something for every taste.

9. Soak in the hot springs

Just an hour outside of Jackson you’ll find Granite Hot Springs, featuring both a natural hot springs bath and a man-made swimming pool. No matter which spot you choose, you’ll be surrounded by a beautiful forest and mountain landscape. Getting to the hot springs is part of the fun, too. In the warmer months, you’ll drive down a bumpy dirt road. In the winter, the only access is via snowmobile, ski or dog sled — which increases the chances you’ll get the place to yourself!

10. Find your dream vacation home

Every season, every month and even every day, there’s so much to explore in this rugged Western outpost. Why limit your visits to once a year? When you co-own a Pacaso second home in Jackson Hole, you’ll have ample time to explore everything Wyoming has to offer — don’t forget to pack your cowboy boots.

10 year-round activities to enjoy in Jackson Hole, Wyoming