By Danielle Vilaplana
From hiking and via ferrata climbing to whitewater rafting and wildlife tours, the list of adventurous ways to enjoy this epic slice of Wyoming goes on and on.
Jackson Hole is an unbeatable summer destination for outdoor adventurers. Cool summer temperatures meet abundant wildflowers, rivers, hiking trails, huckleberries, wildlife, and more. Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park draw visitors from all over the world and the nearby town Jackson, WY is the hub of the adventure.
Between the town’s western charm and endless outdoor offerings, there’s no shortage of things to do in Jackson Hole for the entire family. Especially when you use The Virginian Lodge an Outbound Hotel as basecamp. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping via ferrata or a serene nature hike, read on for our guide to the best summer activities in Jackson Hole.
1. Take a Wildlife Tour
If spotting a grizzly bear, bison, or even a pack of wolves is on your agenda, book a wildlife tour from one of Jackson’s local wildlife tour operators, like Backcountry Safaris, located onsite at The Virginian Lodge. These guides and wildlife biologists know the best season, locations, and times of day to spot your bucket-list animals right from the vehicle and are highly knowledgeable about the unique ecosystems of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Your expert guides will pack high-powered spotting scopes for an up-close experience but you might want to pick up your own pair of nocs at Teton Mountaineering. We recommend booking early morning or evening trips for the best photo lighting and increased animal activity.
2. Climb the Via Ferrata
Push your comfort zone on Jackson Hole’s via ferrata (“iron path”) at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This Italian-inspired climbing system allows even beginners to scale impressive heights via steel ladders, rungs, and bridges, all while safely harnessed to a continuous cable along the mountain. Visitors will scale the mountain with an experienced guide, and the combination of physical challenge and breathtaking vistas is an unforgettable adventure for the entire family.
3. Go Whitewater Rafting
Visitors looking to beat the summer heat will enjoy the cool breeze and chilly waters of the Snake River. Choose from family-friendly floats to heart-pumping whitewater rafting in Class III rapids. Visitors interested in wildlife and a more family-friendly adventure will enjoy the scenic stretch in Grand Teton National Park, while those looking for action can paddle big rapids in Snake River Canyon under the instruction of a guide. Jackson Hole Whitewater, Dave Hansen Whitewater, and Solitude Float Trips are just a few companies that will get you on the water.
4. Paddle Alpine Lakes in an Oru Kayak
If paddling calm alpine lakes is more your style, consider renting an Oru Kayak from The Virginian. Oru Kayaks are known for being lightweight and packable, making them the perfect watercrafts for rental cars or stuffed minivans—no air pumps required! String Lake, Leigh Lake, and Jenny Lake are all great places to spend the day on the water and provide unbeatable views of the Grand Teton.
5. Explore Yellowstone National Park
Though Grand Teton National Park sits right outside of town, America’s first national park awaits just beyond the Tetons’ borders. The southern portion of Yellowstone National Park is easily accessible from Jackson Hole and contains some of the park’s most famous sights. Visitors can witness Old Faithful’s predictable eruptions, marvel at the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, and explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Plan for a full day to experience just this fraction of Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
6. Experience Jackson’s Western Roots
Western charm meets modern amenities (don’t worry, we have a Whole Foods) at the heart of Jackson Hole. The Town Square’s signature elk antler arches are a must-see, as is the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, where authentic saddles serve as bar stools. The historic Silver Dollar is another popular saloon for dancing and live music. We also recommend cooling down with huckleberry ice cream at Moo’s, grabbing a pizza at Hand Fire Pizza or a burger at Billy’s Burgers, drinking a local beer at Roadhouse Brewing, and picking up any hiking items you forgot at Teton Mountaineering.
7. Relax at Astoria Hot Springs
After a big day of hiking, take advantage of our region’s geothermal activity and soak your tired muscles at the recently restored Astoria Hot Springs Park. The thoughtfully designed facility includes both family-friendly and quiet-zone areas and is situated along the scenic Snake River. The contrast between hot thermal waters and cool mountain air creates a deeply relaxing experience, especially after an active day in Grand Teton National Park.
8. Fly Fish on World Class Rivers
Wade into the clear waters of the Snake River, the Buffalo Fork, and numerous other blue-ribbon trout streams that make Jackson Hole a fly-fishing paradise. Visitors can hire a guide to learn proper technique and find secret fishing holes by boat or by wading. Experienced anglers can strike out on their own in search of cutthroat, brown, rainbow, and brook trout, but be sure to stop by High Country Outfitters for flies, a fishing license, and bear spray first. And don’t forget to read the local guidelines if you plan on fishing in Grand Teton National Park.
9. Catch a Live Music Night
If you still have energy after a long day outside, head to The Virginian Saloon for a buzzing music scene. The bar and venue frequently hosts DJ’s and traveling artists as well as homegrown talent on the weekends (check out their calendar here). For weekly revelries, you can watch locals test their skills every Tuesday at Open Mic Sessions or give it a go yourself on Wednesdays at Karaoke Night.
10. Trek to Alpine Lakes
Lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trails to some of Grand Teton National Park’s most scenic alpine lakes. Lake Solitude is a beautiful reward for those willing to trek the 16 mile in-and-out trail up Cascade Canyon. Plenty of visitors will be happy to turn around at the stunning Inspiration Point after strolling the shores of Jenny Lake and can even cut down the mileage by taking a boat. For something closer to town, circle Phelps Lake on a moderate 7-mile loop that passes the famous “jumping rock.” Just be sure to arrive by 9:00am if you want parking! And if hiking isn’t your thing…
11. Ride the Tram at JHMR
For amazing views without the work, ascend 4,139 vertical feet aboard the tram to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. From the 10,450ft peak, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Tetons, the Snake River Valley, the Gros Ventre Mountains, and Idaho. Visitors can hike a network of trails at the top or enjoy a waffle at Corbet’s Cabin before hiking or riding mountain bikes back down.
