Field Notes

5 Things to Do in Jackson Hole This Summer

by JHWS GuideJul 26, 2024

Jackson Hole is the quintessential place for outdoor enthusiasts. By some stroke of luck, we have boundless and breathtaking views right in our backyard. With Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park nearby, your summer out West will be jam-packed with wildlife, hikes, bike rides, and more! Not sure where to start? Read on—we’re here to help you make the most of your summer travels.

A Great Grey Owl Perched On A Branch Resting In Tall Grass On Forest Floor
Grand Teton Red Fox

Sign Up for a Grand Teton Wildlife Safari

Just five miles from Jackson, Grand Teton National Park is home to incredible flora and fauna! Bison and pronghorn are especially abundant during the summer months, but you might also find grizzly bears, moose, coyotes, and more. The best way to see them? Take a wildlife safari to scenic routes that loop around forests, glacial lakes, and mountains—all with our experienced guides by your side. We offer a few expeditions to account for your schedule. If you have a packed schedule, sign up for the four-hour Grand Teton wildlife tour. Have more time to spare? Set out on the eight-hour option. Amateur and expert photographers can view Grand Teton National Park through a different lens and spend their trip with a professional photography guide, honing their wildlife or landscape photography skills in the wild.

Pair It with a Yellowstone National Park Tour

A little further away (60 miles north of Jackson, to be precise) is Yellowstone, the first-ever national park. There’s so much to see here, from geothermal wonders like geysers and hot springs to stunning geological landscapes. To ensure you see it all, sign up for our single-day tours. While it’s a long day (10-12 hours), you’ll end your trip having visited some of the park’s most iconic attractions: the Continental Divide, Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pots, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, Mud Volcano, Yellowstone Lake and much more.

Traverse the Via Ferrata at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Experience world-class climbing like never before along the Via Ferrata at Jackson Hole. Traverse suspended bridges, iron rungs, and granite walls (all while secured to cables) across 15 unique routes to experience spectacular views of the Teton Valley. No matter your skill level, pair up with an experienced Jackson Hole guide, who will lead you on an unforgettable adventure. Explore the trails and secure your day now!

Rent Bikes and Cruise the Pathways System

Jackson Hole is the perfect place for bike riders, from casual cyclists to epic adventurers. Grand Teton National Park offers more miles of separated pathways for cycling than any other national park in the United States! We’re not exaggerating! With over 56 miles of paved trails linking Jackson to Teton Village and beyond and over 115 miles of mountain bike courses, you can uncover the area’s magic via one of several routes! Check out Teton Mountain Bike Tours—they offer half-day and full-day tours in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to help you experience some of the country’s most iconic wilderness views on two wheels.

For those interested in testing their legs and lungs, we recommended “Around the Block.” This route takes riders on a 100-plus mile loop west over Teton Pass, south on Pine Creek Pass, and back north through the Snake River Canyon. For something a bit more low-key, view the pathway map.

Don’t have a bike at your disposal? No worries! Depending on your starting point, you can rent one from several spots in town, including Hoback Sports and Teton Village Sports.

Hike the Surrounding National Parks and Forests

It might sound like a no-brainer, but hiking in the area’s national parks and forests is a must-do. Grand Teton National Park boasts over 200 miles of trails, from relaxed strolls to strenuous hikes. Yellowstone has triple that, and 98% of its splendor lies beyond the well-trodden paths. Want to escape the crowds? Visit the lesser-advertised Bridger-Teton National Forest, which is full of pristine watersheds, abundant wildlife, and immense wildlands. No matter which trail you choose, you’ll find endless charm along the way.

Plan Your Summer in Jackson Hole

Let us help you plan your trip to Jackson Hole this summer. There’s so much beauty out West, and we want to make sure you see as much of it as possible! View all our available safaris this season, or contact us for more information. We can’t wait to show you around!