These tours offer unparalleled vistas, options to see geological wonders like Old Faithful, and encounters with elk, moose, bald eagles, and more. It gets cold AF in Jackson Hole in the winter and, in snowy or icy conditions, frostbite is a real threat. Interested in writing us a post for us? Most trips provide guides, lunch and enough powder laps to tire out even the strongest legs. Its also the oldest ski resort in the state of Wyoming. Oh, and if you get hungry for lunch, Palate is an attraction all on its own. Read: Snowmobiling in Jackson Hole Snowmobiling Through Yellowstone. Never approach or feed any animals you should always be at least 3 bus lengths away from any wild animal and always yield to them. We have a few specific suggestions for items that are tried an tested: Whew! restaurants, and lodging in Jackson Hole, Snow-capped mountains. You can expect an adventurous day, as no two days of wildlife watching are the same. Games start at 7 p.m. Soak in Thermal Hot Springs Pools: Astoria Hot Springs, located just 15-20 minutes south of Jackson, opened in September 2020. How to get to Jackson Hole in the winter? It starts on Jackson Town Square and traverses all over Wyoming before finishing back in Jackson. Elk and moose migrate to lower elevations in winter and the lack of leafy cover combined with the valley's snowpack make for easy viewing. Wow! Check the schedule of ongoing events at the Jackson Hole Center for The Arts for nighttime fun. Mill Iron Ranch offers rides on their ranch among a wintering herd of about 1,500 elk, followed by their famous T-bone steak dinner. Or contact a local guide company, such as Exum Mountain Guides or Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, about available courses and trips. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Although winter temperatures (and sometimes snow) last from October until April, a trip in January, February, or March will allow you to take full advantage of reliable snow and winter activities. Snowboarding, ice skating, and sleigh riding in the clear, crisp air of Grand Tetons yes, please! Please drop a comment if you experience it differently! Once you smell the waffles, theres no leaving without them. The two hot springs above, however, are perfectly safe. Maybe I should have mentioned that first. You might be tempted to get a cheaper flight to Salt Lake City and drive the rest of the way to Jackson, but you just never know when an avalanche or blizzard is going to close down a highway. Need to plan a trip that pleases the skiers in your group but also thrills non-skiers as well? Ive visited Jackson Hole, the Tetons and Yellowstone NP in late September and fall just had started. It seems to depend entirely on each individual business. 
We'll also send you our favorite travel tips! Nurture yourself inside and out with a visit to one of Jackson Holes spas, which offer a range of services and experiences from traditional facials and bodywork, to more comprehensive wellness programs such as guided yoga instruction. Open Monday from noon to 2 p.m.; Wednesday through Friday 3 to 7 p.m., weekends noon to 7 p.m.; closed Tuesday. j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'? Jackson Hole Moose Hockey: The Moose play a 30-game home schedule at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights throughout the winter at the Snow King Sports and Events Center ice arena.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort also offers guided tours, classes and rental gear. From upscale steakhouses to casual street food, youll have plenty to choose from when dining in Jackson Hole. If youre up for a full day of winter adventure, take the full day snowshoeing & wildlife tour that combines winter sports with wildlife spotting in this two-for-one all day long winter adventure! You can rent skates and hop on the rink under twinkling lights. This FREE 3-page printable packing list will help make sure you don't forget anything for your next winter trip. See Jackson Hole's glorious scenery and wildlife from a snowmobile. 
From the airport you can get a shuttle or taxi into town or pick up a rental car. It features five pools for soaking/swimming. 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); Gloves with fingers are especially great for adjusting the focus on binoculars and scopes. 
Hang on to your hat as an expert guide whisks you across the winter landscape. And if the journey wasnt enough, the destination is a sparkling, turquoise hotspring (!!!!). And while both places have a lot of options, but if you want a more reasonable rate as well as plenty of shops, restaurants and galleries within walking distance youll have better luck in Jackson. And thanks for all the notes about visiting in winter. If youre out on your own (and an experienced and prepared skier, of course), you can rent a pair of cross-country skis in town at Skinny Skis and park again at the Taggart Lake Trailhead. Important Safety Note: Its very important to only soak in geothermal pools that are specifically designed and maintained for people to enjoy. 1 Ski Resort in North America by Forbes magazine an impressive eight years in a row. It must be so magical! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Refuge tours: If you want to get really close to Jackson Hole's resident elk, consider a sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge. In response to this problem and with the support of a local wildlife biologist, the federal government set aside land for a National Elk Refuge. Jackson Hole refers to the valley in which the town of Jackson sits. She is lucky to call such a beautiful place home, though she loves any chance to explore a new place. new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], The town of Jackson, as well as surrounding public and private lands, are part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, or GYE. Oh hey, want a printable version? Dog sledding tours have a wide range of costs because they are very customizable, from half-days to multi-overnights. Drop us a comment below! })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-P6R8DKB'); 3 years ago we quit our jobs, put our stuff in storage, and took off on a (disastrous) year-long honeymoon. An aerial tram can take you to the top of the highest peak experts only, if you plan to ski down though. Whether you're a family of four, a group of friends, or a couple, you'll find adventure, Now is the perfect time to plan your summer adventure in Jackson Hole travel with a vacation package. "Winter Wonderland" on Town Square: Free. Talk about splurge-worthy experiences! The winter tourist season begins around the holidays in December and tapers off in March or early April. Be prepared to jump in and out of the vehicle at each stop, and dress warmer than you think youll need to. Waffles with a view what more could you want? Ever seen an elk up close? Contact Jackson Hole Central Reservations, by calling (888) 838-6606. Site by, 30 Things Nobody Tells You About Quitting Your Job to Travel, 32 Things Nobody Tells You About Long Term Travel as a Couple, 30 Things No One Tells You About Backpacking in South America, 9 Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming in the Winter. Awesome! Can I visit Yellowstone National Park from Jackson Hole in the winter? But its not just wildlife that requires awareness and safety precautions.
For thousands of years, humans have lived alongside these animals and respected their presence in this valley. We tapped an insider to give us the scoop on Jackson Hole in the winter. Most companies offer a variety of tour lengths to best suit your schedule. If you are an experienced snowshoer and winter adventurer, you can rent a pair of snowshoes at a shop downtown (such as Skinny Skis) and head out on your own hike. That should keep you warm and toasty. Choose from a half or full-day dog sledding adventure. Home to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Village is pretty busy in the winter, and does not disappoint with winter festivities. You cant get much more Jackson Hole than that. However, any unguided trips into Grand Teton National Park will require your own vehicle. It's not too good to be true. Absolutely stunning in love with the incredible photos but everything you painted with your words too. Over 170 inches of snow. King Tubes (Snow King Mountain Resort). Weather can be nasty during Jackson Hole winters sometimes closing roads so check conditions and road advisories with the Wyoming 511 app. Its best to call the outfitters and discuss trip options and costs with them for the most clarity and choice. Family skate time is noon to 8:30 p.m. daily. Were talking about a lot of snow here, people! But in the winter, the Park Service closes the road to cars, while skiers and snowshoers get to enjoy a wonderfully scenic path. When should I visit Jackson Hole in the winter? Guided by a trained biologist and conducted from the comfort of a specially equipped van with spotting scopes and a large sunroof, you will remember this excursion forever. And bring your camera!
Make sure to add contact@practicalwanderlust.com to your address book so we don't end up in spam! The other option is the Village Rink on the Commons in Teton Village. The most magical adventures await you if youve never tried snowshoeing through a winter wonderland. Remember that snow tube riders must be 42 inches or taller. So yeah, the skiing is good, and if thats your thing, you may splurge on a lift ticket at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. If you are planning to downhill ski in the backcountry, you should always carry avalanche safety gear and know how to use it (think about taking a course)! And if youre doing winter activities, add a waterproof layer as well, like lined snow pants or water-resistant hiking pants.
combine the sleigh ride with a wildlife tour! Jackson Hole's visitor's guide for things to do, Cost: adults $10/kids $5. First things first Jackson, or Jackson Hole? Turquoise hot springs. Here are our picks for the top 10 winter activities for Non-skiers in Jackson Hole: Take a winter tour through nearby Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, or the National Elk refuge and enjoy the pristine Wyoming winter landscape from the comfort of a heated snowcoach.
Call 307-201-1633. Youll board the horse-drawn sleigh and cover up with a toasty wool blanket before heading out on your ride. Decades and perhaps centuries of conservation efforts have preserved much of these species historical habitat, making Jackson Hole an incredible destination for wildlife watching. The Ultimate Montana Road Trip: Detailed 10-Day Itinerary, The Ultimate Yellowstone in Winter Guide: Everything You Need to Know, The Perfect 10-Day Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Guide, The 10 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida (& Over 60 Activities! The groomed road will take you along the base of the Tetons and youll have panoramic views of the valley the entire way. Youll get guidance on how to snowshoe, a little natural history, snacks, and very importantly, youll be accompanied by a trained Wilderness First Responder! Walk the boardwalks where youll find local boutiques, western apparel and gifts, art galleries, outlets, and major retailers. For more ideas on how to make the most of your winter's stay in the valley, check out some trip descriptionsand a checklist for a day off the slopes. While this trail is packed in the summer, during the winter youll likely enjoy a pretty quiet walk to the lake. You can also walk almost anywhere downtown or in Teton Village, assuming youre already there. If wool isnt your thing, wear an equally insulating base layer, like one made from silk (heres a silk top and bottom option). Ever heard that saying, theres no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing? When snowflakes are swirling around the mountains you must make sure youre prepared for any conditions. With hundreds of miles of trails and some of the most beautiful winter terrain in the country to explore, a snowmobile trip in Jackson Hole is a day you won't soon forget. October and November are cold and often snowy, but without the festivity that true winter brings. Well-known for its extensive ranchland and wild game, Wyoming restaurants often feature beef, elk, and bison on their meat-heavy menus. , Your email address will not be published. Think again. Are the skiers and snowboarders in your life clamoring to hit the slopes on a winter vacation this year?
If snowshoeing isnt fast enough or difficult enough or you simply didnt fall down enough, try cross country skiing. With a vertical drop of 2,270 feet, it offers a mellower atmosphere with excellent skiing for all abilities and plenty of challenges if you look for them. If you are looking to gear up for outdoor fun, then stop by Teton Villages ski and snowboard stores. Snowcoach tours also offer guided interpretations of the wildlife, history and geological features of the world's first national park. Soaking in the hot springs can leave you parched, and cold water is important to help your body get the most out of your soak. The Jackson Hole Moose Hockey team is back in action for their 25th season of hard-hitting ice hockey in Jackson Hole as they try to bring the Joe Casey Memorial Cup back to Jackson from Sun Valley! A snowmobile tour in Jackson Hole can take you to beautiful natural settings that are otherwise inaccessible in the winter months. Jackson folk love to enjoy a brew after a long day of skiing, and there are plenty of spots in town to warm up and enjoy a locally brewed craft beer. For more winter travel packing tips, head over to ourCold Weather Packing Guide. Due its remoteness and harsh weather, Jackson was only settled by European Americans because of the Homestead Act of 1862, which essentially gave free land to anyone willing to build some stuff and use it for something for a few years. If youre seeking snow and wintry weather, good news: Jackson Hole gets nice and cold in the winter, with average low temperatures from December through February in the single digits and with highs in the 20s and 30s. Please try again. Plus, theres an actual moose hanging from the ceiling. If you do rent a car, be sure to choose one you feel comfortable driving in the snow and request a car with snow tires. If youre not coming from a similarly snowy place, youll feel like a kid as you inevitably flop around in the fluff and hurl snowballs at your travel companions. For Do-It-Yourselfers, multiple options are also available in town and throughout the valley. Youll also notice a lot of accommodations in Teton Village, which is about 20 minutes away from Jackson and a lot more expensive. Theres even a fire pit nearby for when you need to warm up, and snow castles and sculptures to explore. Understand National Park and National Forest policies and regulations if you recreate within these areas. What to Pack for Jackson Hole in the Winter, Things to Do in Jackson Hole in the Winter, Cross Country Ski Along the Base of the Tetons, Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art, he Ultimate Yellowstone in Winter Guide: Everything You Need to Know, 9 Awe-Inspiring Things To Do in Zion National Park, Utah: The Ultimate Guide to Zion, American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. Late winter is also mating season for wolves, coyotes, bald eagles, owls, and ravens. So dont forget to bring sunscreen and sunglasses sunlight reflecting off of the snow can be intense!
Alpine forests. Paintings, sculptures, photographs, and even a giant totem (installed by being lowered through a window on the museums roof!) Rather than closing off adventures, the snow opens up new vistas, routes of exploration and days of fun that match every activity level. Love to see the scenery in full snow and want to go there again now! Grab an early afternoon drink in Teton Village or downtown Jackson to meet up with skiing friends and take part in the aprs-ski scene.
These famous bars are sure to get your heart pumping with local music and some line dancing! With an average annual snowfall of more than 500 inches, skiing in and around the Tetons falls well into the world-class category.
Head out on the groomed Teton Park Road for a flat, beginner-friendly ski. With access available from within the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, atop Teton Pass and Grand Teton National Park, getting into the backcountry is easier than ever. Wyoming & Grand Teton National Park. The best chances youll have of seeing this incredible wildlife is with a guided tour. (COVID-19) Jackson Hole & Grand Teton Travel Updates, Grand Teton National Park Camping & RV Parks, Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, Snow King Sports and Events Center ice arena. Jackson Hole Iditarod Sled Dog Tours is the original dogsledding company in Jackson, operated by an experienced Iditarod veteran. Grand Targhee Resort is located on the typically snowier west side of the Tetons in Alta, Wyoming, and is known for the most powder days of any ski area in the country. Hours: Anytime if you have your own skates. Riding on a horse-drawn sleigh is one of the most unique ways to enjoy the winter landscape and to get up close to certain species of wildlife.
How to Plan an Amazing Lake Tahoe Winter Trip, 12 Epic Things to do in Banff, Canada in Winter, Where to Stay in Barcelona (& Where NOT to), 28 Epic Things to do in Lassen National Park, California: The Ultimate Guide to Lassen. And dont forget a water bottle! Play it safe and fly into Jackson Hole Airport plus, the view on a clear day is an unforgettable bonus. Youll want to wear a merino wool base layer underneath your clothing every day during your Jackson Hole winter trip that means that the layer closest to your skin should all be made from merino wool.
Come to Jackson Hole and try our picks for the top 10 winter activities for non-skiers.
Jackson Hole offers a range of shopping and dining options. You'll also be subscribing to our monthly newsletter. A favorite lunchtime destination for locals, it hosts many national ski teams during the early season and local, state and regional Alpine races throughout the winter. Always check the avalanche conditions at jhavalanche.org. You may have been asking yourself this question, and if so, youre not alone. Cost: adults $8/kids $6; rentals $5. Competition for space and food is increased, while predators like wolves and mountain lions take advantage of prey weakened by the harsh conditions. Merino wool is super warm, incredibly soft (nope, its not itchy) and much more lightweight than synthetic fabrics, as well as being naturally antibacterial, which means you can re-wear it without the re-wear funk. All this to say, snowshoes are a necessary piece of gear if you want to hike in Jackson in the winter. Find out how to save up to $500 on your winter flights to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Jackson Hole Vintage Sleigh Rides provides several private tours for a trulyunique Jackson Hole winter experience. Jackson Hole, WY 83001 The Mangy Moose is a classic, and often has live music. The drive up to this museums entrance provides spectacular views of the National Elk Refuge below and is also a great spot to look for wildlife. Nonetheless, seeing the elk is a unique bucket-list item for visitors and is a major contributor to the tourism economy of Jackson. Always respect the wildlife that call this valley home. Learn how your comment data is processed. The Tram offers panoramic views of the Teton Mountains, the town of Jackson, the Snake River Valley, and Grand Teton National Park. But be warned: it's also easier than ever to find yourself in trouble. Here are two unique snowy adventures well worth the price of admission. Winter brings animals like moose, elk, and deer down to lower elevations, and travelers should be cautious driving on roads and walking on trails. Tours are mostly early wake-up affairs that make the most of an entire day of snowmobiling.
Jackson, though no exception to the emphasis on steak and game, hosts a variety of restaurants that dress up these staples and add delicious alternatives for vegetarians and vegans. For more information, call 307-201-1633 or visit moose.pucksystems2.com. Take a look at ourcontributor guidelinesand pitch us your idea! Alas, I cant, but its still tons of fun. Just kidding, everyone should try cross country skiing. If you think youll be great at it because youre a bomb downhill skier, think again the two activities are very different. Your email is on its way. Did you find this post informative? Not bad for the town hill, eh? Visit jacksonholemoose.com for schedule. The brand newCowboy Coasterat Snow King takes riders up 456 feet and then back down on a thrill-ride of twists and hairpin turns.
Jackson Hole is known for being home to huge herds of elk, illustrated by the famous elk antler arches in Town Square or the elk steak on restaurant menus. While there are a few options for places to stay nearby, we recommend staying in Jackson proper. Our expert agents can help you book flights, lodging, and activities for the vacation of your dreams. Although youll find less expensive and gorgeous rentals in nearby Idaho, these stays require a commute over Teton Pass to reach any of the activities listed. Are you looking forward to exploring Jackson Hole? The snowy, remote valley of Jackson Hole, Wyoming sits at the base of Grand Teton National Park, with Yellowstone National Park neighboring just an hour to the north. Rent a snowmobile or join an outfitter for guided half-and full-day tours. That said, there are certain months which have distinct advantages. This steep, winding mountain pass regularly closes due to snow and avalanches and can be an absolute nightmare to drive save yourself the anxiety. Considered the closest to a European ski experience within the U.S., JHMR boasts acres of expert terrain and out-of-bound skiing, plus the longest continuous vertical rise of any ski area in the country: 4,139 feet. Save a winter visit to Yellowstone for another time and focus on enjoying Grand Teton National Park instead! Horse-drawn sleighs. In the winter, thousands of elk from several different herds converge in Jackson Hole to spend the harsh season at a lower elevation. There is a small entrance fee ($5) to the park in winter. Toasty from the pool, youll redress and enjoy a hot lunch before heading back down the canyon with the sleds. We won't send you spam. After your skate, there are plenty of places nearby to grab a hot cocoa or fun cocktail. Rope tows and conveyor lifts make it quick and easy to get back up to the top of the hill. Rodeo Grounds Rink: Free.
Family skate time is 2 to 4 p.m. daily. I was there in September and loved it, but I feel like its on another level in the winter. Try the Bison Gyro youre in Jackson, after all and enjoy another unbeatable view of the valley. Powderhorn Park Rink: Free. Jackson Hole is still a very wild place, as evidenced by the creatures that call it home. Today, we share down-to-earth travel tips from our many (mis)adventures on our blog andpodcast! This is such a great guide and you definitely inspired me.
Spend a day in downtown Jackson exploring historic Town Square, with its iconic antler arches and the nearby stores and restaurants. Experience the snow-covered roads of Yellowstone National Park in a snowcoachone of the only ways to access Old Faithful in the winter. Heck, even if you dont skate, come check out this festive vibe the snow castles are fun for adults, too. '&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src=
Psst: Planning a trip out West? And while both summer and winter are fantastic times to visit, winter is definitely the quieter option. Enjoy the journey, and be a patient guest. Just sign up below and well send a winter packing checklist straight to your inbox. Snow tubing parks offer hours of winter fun for all ages. You can learn more about Emily on her website Emily Carol Copy. Cliffs, trees, moose(! For more information and see where you can take recreational avalanche training, check out the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Imagine silently gliding through the snow on a sled powered only by an experienced team of Alaskan Huskies. Owen Bircher Park Rink (Wilson): Family skate time is noon to 2 p.m. daily.