With the Grand Tetons at its doorstep, the Snake River winding nearby, and Yellowstone just an hour away, the Jackson, Wyoming area is a nature-lovers paradise. The landscape is rugged and remote, teeming with fish, fauna, and wildlife, and offers an almost endless array of outdoor activities.
Here are just some of the things to see and do in the Jackson area:
The area that makes up today’s Grand Teton National Park was earmarked for parkland about the same time that Yellowstone was designated as the country’s first national park. In fact, plans once included the Tetons as part of a much larger version of Yellowstone Park. But, it took until 1950 for Grand Teton to receive its own protection as a national park.
The Grand Teton range is among the most magnificent mountain ranges in continental North America. The stunning backdrop created by the jagged peaks, the breathtaking vistas and chance wildlife visits make photography a must. Julie Singh, of Tripoutside.com says Jackson’s location makes it a “Fantastic outdoors town at the tip of Grand Teton National Park, where outdoor adventures abound. There are numerous hiking opportunities in and around the National Park, with astounding views of the Tetons, chances to glimpse wildlife like moose and grizzlies, and explore high alpine lakes that the region is known for.”
Home to Old Faithful geyser and a multitude of other geothermal wonders, Yellowstone probably doesn’t need much introduction. Established as the nation’s first national park by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872, today, the park attracts up to 4 million visitors each year. Hundreds of species of wildlife make the 2 million acres of wilderness their home. Eagles, bear, elk, bison, and wolves are common sights.
Three additional National Forests border Yellowstone, each beautiful wilderness areas in their own right. There’s Caribou-Targhee National Forest with 3-million acres; Bridger-Teton National Forest with another 3-million acres; and, Shoshone National Forest with a comparatively modest 2-million acres.
Winding along the base of the Tetons, the Snake River is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in the U.S., federally designated as a “wild and scenic river.” Acknowledging the importance of the river to the Jackson area, Kent Elliott, Director of Destination Global Sales for the Jackson Chamber of Commerce said, “The number one summer activity is rafting - either taking a slow scenic float or a white water trip through the area - it’s a must!”
Whether you’re drawn to those exciting white water adventures, more leisure floats, or just tossing a line in the water, the Snake River has plenty to offer.
Historic elk antler arches, downtown Jackson. [Photo/Wikimedia Commons]
Several area companies offer whitewater rafting trips along the river ranging from tamer trips suitable for children to those for the more experienced rafter. Longer tours include meals and some rafting companies have overnight options. Boat size options provide the opportunity to help paddle or just go along for the ride. Whichever you choose, experienced local guides will introduce you to the geology, history, culture, and wildlife of the river area.
For something a little calmer, consider a float trip along the river. Local river guides will share their knowledge as you pass areas unscarred by human development.
Anglers are drawn to the Snake River, famous for its brown, rainbow and cutthroat trout, and even king salmon. Fish on your own, or take one of many guided fishing trips along the river.
Several companies in the Jackson area offer small guided wildlife tours. Experienced naturalists take you into the wilderness to spot creatures like moose, bear, and bison while teaching them about wildlife conservation efforts in the area. As Mr. Elliott acknowledges, “If you go out with a wildlife tour, they will teach you where and when to spot. There are different times of the day to see different animals. Tour guides have that working knowledge of wildlife and their habits.”
How about taking in the magnificent Grand Tetons by horseback? Area companies offer bridle tours of varying lengths with experienced guides taking you along mountain paths, beside pristine streams, and through alpine valleys.
Perhaps the most awe-inspiring way to see the area is from the birds-eye view during an aerial tour. Local companies provide everything from sightseeing flights in private airplanes to paragliding trips. There’s even an aerial tram that climbs over 4,000l feet offering amazing 360-degree views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley.
Don’t think that the Jackson area can only be enjoyed in warmer months; it a year-round area and winter has plenty to offer. Enjoy a winter landscape of snow-covered evergreens, frozen waterways, and winter-feeding wildlife on a sleigh ride, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding.
Jackson is the main town contained in the 48-mile long, 15-mile wide valley known as Jackson Hole sits between the Tetons and the Gros Ventre Range. Jackson was settled in the 19th-century and by the 1920s, it was still just a small frontier village with around 500 residents. With the formation of area’s national parks, the town grew to serve the tourist trade. Mr. Elliott said that downtown walking tours offered by the Jackson Historical Society and Museum are perfect for learning about the town’s history.
Today, Jackson’s population is around 10,000; and while the town boasts everything from spas to museums it retains much of that frontier-town feel. You can enjoy authentic Western saloons like the Million Dollar Cowboy or the Silver Dollar Bar and Grill. Take in live Western entertainment at the Jackson Hole Playhouse or Pink Garter Theater. Or, after a day in the Western air, wet your whistle with a craft brew at Snake River Brewery or Roadhouse Brewing Company. If beer’s not your thing, head to Grand Teton Distilling, Jackson Hole Still Works, or the Jackson Hole Winery.
Mr. Elliott pointed out the Granary Restaurant at Spring Creek Ranch as a unique dining spot. “You are 700-feet above the valley floor with a beautiful view of the Teton Range. There’s no other restaurant in the valley with the view they have.”
There’s no better way to experience the cowboy traditions of Jackson than the rodeo. For over a hundred years, the Wilson family, among the area’s original settlers has run the event featuring bronco and bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. Kids 12 and under can rodeo in the Sheep Scramble and everyone can try their hand on the mechanical buffalo out front.
If you want a taste of the Old West and some good Western hospitality, be sure to make time for a chuck wagon dinner. “You wouldn’t believe how many locals enjoy those,” Mr. Elliott mentioned. One company, the Bar T 5 takes its guests to dinner in horse-drawn covered wagons. Once at camp, enjoy an evening of delicious food around the campfire serenaded by cowboy guitarists.
There are more than ample choices for RV travelers in the Jackson area.
Close to Jackson Lake, this big-rig friendly campground offers 112 wooded sites, 13 with electric hookups.
Located along the Gros Ventre River 11 miles southeast of Moose. This park offers 300 sites, 36 with electric hookups. 45-foot maximum length.
Headwaters Campground & RV sites
Just south of Yellowstone, there are 175 forested sites with 20/50 amp electric. 45-foot maximum length.
At the north end of Grand Teton National Park, about 32 miles north of Moose. The park offers 60 sites, some with electric. 30-foot maximum length.
Nine miles north of Jenny Lake. There are 81 forested sites, 24 with electric hookups. 30-foot maximum length.