Things To Do In Jackson Hole In The Summer
Last July, I found myself standing in a wildflower meadow near Jenny Lake, holding a granola bar like it was a weapon. A moose had wandered onto the trail ahead, and she looke...
Last July, I found myself standing in a wildflower meadow near Jenny Lake, holding a granola bar like it was a weapon. A moose had wandered onto the trail ahead, and she looked at me with the casual disdain of a local who’s seen too many tourists in flip-flops.
That moment sums up Jackson Hole in summer: stunning, a little unpredictable, and absolutely worth the bug spray. The ski crowds vanish, the valley turns green, and the Tetons become a playground for anyone who doesn’t mind sharing space with wildlife.
So if you’re planning a warm-weather trip, here’s what to do—and a few things I wish someone had told me before I tried to out-stare a moose. You might even spot a bear, from a very respectful distance.
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Hit the Trails in Grand Teton National Park
You can’t come to Jackson Hole and skip the national park. That’s like going to Paris and only visiting the airport.
Start with the Jenny Lake Loop, a mostly flat 7-mile trail with mirror-like water and mountain views that look fake. Yes, you’ll see crowds near the boat dock, but walk a mile in either direction and the people thin out fast.
For something steeper, try Delta Lake. It’s brutal, it’s beautiful, and your quads will file a complaint. Bring more water than you think you need—seriously.
Float the Snake River
There are two ways to do this: calm scenic float or whitewater. Choose your own adventure.
The scenic float is perfect for families, photographers, and anyone who wants to sit back while someone else rows. You’ll drift under the Tetons and probably see bald eagles, beavers, and maybe a moose having a spa day.
Whitewater is faster, wetter, and will make you scream-laugh in a life jacket. Book ahead—summer slots disappear like free donuts in a break room.
The 7 Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming During Summer - Let's
Watch Wildlife at Dawn and Dusk
Wildlife watching is not a zoo. You don’t pay admission, and the animals absolutely did not sign a contract to appear.
Your best bet is early morning or late evening along Moose-Wilson Road or Antelope Flats. Bring binoculars, keep your distance, and please don’t be the person who tries to pet a bison. (Yes, that happens. No, it never ends well.)
See the Sunrise at Schwabacher Landing
Set an alarm. I know, I know—vacation. But Schwabacher Landing at sunrise is one of those core memory experiences.
Explore the Town of Jackson
Jackson is not just a base camp; it’s a quirky little town with cowboy boots, art galleries, and expensive coffee.
Walk through the Town Square and take a photo under the antler arches. Then hit the Jackson Hole Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for local honey, fresh bread, and live music.
Feeling nostalgic? The Jackson Hole Rodeo runs Wednesday and Saturday nights in summer. It’s loud, dusty, and delightfully old-school. You’ll leave wanting to own a horse you definitely can’t afford.
Eat Like You Just Hiked 10 Miles
Try Persephone Bakery for pastries, Liberty Burger for indulgent fries, and Snake River Grill for a fancy night out. Wash it down with a local huckleberry milkshake. Obviously.
Going to Jackson Hole this summer? Here are 10 best things to do
Get Your Adrenaline Fix
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort isn’t just for winter. In summer, the gondola takes you up to Rendezvous Mountain for hiking and waffles at Corbet’s Cabin.
Yes, waffles at 10,450 feet are a thing. They’re also absurdly good.
Want more? Try paragliding off the mountain, or book the Via Ferrata for a climbing experience that’s part ladder, part sheer terror, all fun.
Mountain bikers should head to Teton Pass or the resort’s bike park. Just don’t forget your helmet—and your health insurance.
Take a Day Trip to Yellowstone
Yellowstone is about an hour away, and yes, it’s worth the drive. Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and bison traffic jams await.
Jackson Hole in summer isn’t a secret anymore, but it still feels like one when you’re watching the sun hit the Tetons with a waffle in hand. Just respect the wildlife, book your adventures early, and pack layers—because mountain weather has a sense of humor.
And if a moose blocks your trail? Give her the granola bar. You can find another one.
