Outdoor Adventures in Jackson Hole, WY

This high-elevation paradise of Jackson Hole, Wyoming provides a scenic Teton backdrop for almost any outdoors activity, making it a year-round destination for adventure-loving types. Every season has its particular marvels: winter brings skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. When the snow starts to melt in the spring, it’s time for road running and road biking, plus trail sports and whitewater paddling. Magical Teton summers are prime time for hiking, camping, and climbing, plus flatwater paddling on the Snake River. Whatever you’re doing, keep an eye out for wildlife, which is like nowhere else in the lower 48, with moose and bears aplenty.

The scenery is incredible, the challenges are real, and the town is packed with outdoorsy types who love taking advantage of it all. No surprise that so many world-class athletes, Olympians, and U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Famers choose to make Jackson their home.

Trail: Whether you’re looking for packed-dirt summer paths or snow-coated winter ones, there are trails near Jackson for every adventurer. The Cache Creek trail network, just two miles from the Town Square, offers opportunities for hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and winter recreationists. Summer brings hiking in Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest, and surrounding areas. Hike the spellbinding Death Canyon or spend a few days exploring the gems of Grand Teton National Park on the Teton Crest Trail. Jackson Hole also beckons cyclists, from road bikers looking to go for a 100-mile ride “Around the Block” and refining expert jumps at Jimmy's Mom Trail off Teton Pass.

Water: The Snake River winds through Jackson, offering both whitewater and flatwater possibilities. Take a flatwater float or head up Snake River Canyon for some Class III whitewater action. Or, just spend a lazy day floating on Flat Creek through town. If lakes are your thing, there are plenty to pick from. One favorite is Grand Teton National Park’s String Lake, the warmest in the area, where families go to the “beach” and people practice their stand-up-paddleboarding skills.

Rock: From the Tetons to local crags, there is plenty of fun to be had by rock sports lovers all around Jackson Hole. Blacktail Butte offers great climbing just north of town, along with incredible sunset views if you go in the evening. Teton Boulder Park is a great place to practice bouldering techniques, and it's right in town at the base of Snow King. Of course, if you really want to go extreme (and have a lot of experience), the Complete Exum Route is considered the “crown jewel” of the Grand's south side.