Perhaps best known as the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National parks, Jackson Hole offers every type of alpine adventure.
In this long, narrow mountain valley bisected by the Snake River, visitors can enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities such as rafting, climbing, cycling, and skiing. Consequently, planning a visit here requires consideration of the weather.
With elevations ranging from 6100 to 6800 feet, Jackson Hole has an alpine climate, especially notable given the surrounding peaks which rise an additional 7000 feet from the valley floor. Winters are long and cold, with snow potentially arriving as early as October, although typically it falls in late November or early December. Ski season runs from late November through April, featuring three primary ski resorts: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee, and Snow King Mountain, each with distinct opening and closing dates.
Spring is typically considered “mud season,” as snowmelt transforms trails into wet terrain and cascades in the form of waterfalls. From June through Labor Day weekend, Jackson Hole buzzes with visitors, making it an ideal base for outdoor summer vacations or stops on national-park road trips.
When you ask a local about the best season in Jackson Hole, you’ll receive various responses depending on their focus—whether it’s skiing, mountain biking, hiking, or photography. The truth is, every season boasts its unique charm, and the ideal approach is to experience each one firsthand.
Summer in Jackson Hole
As the snow gradually melts at higher elevations, backcountry activities such as hiking and backpacking come into full swing. Additionally, lakes brim with water, rivers flow rapidly, and wildflowers blossom, bringing vibrant colors to the landscape.
Summer temperatures are exceptionally pleasant, with daytime highs ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and cool evenings perfect for a campfire. The rare afternoon thunderstorm is about the only weather concern for visitors.
While the natural areas provide tranquility, the town of Jackson comes alive during high season with a plethora of live theater and music performances, transforming every evening into a delightful experience.
Winter in Jackson Hole
Winter in Jackson Hole means long, cold, and snowy conditions. The temperature seldom rises above 30°F, with annual snowfall accumulating to 280 inches at the valley floor and significantly more on the peaks. Powder enthusiasts will find bliss in these conditions; however, there are numerous winter activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, dog sledding, and fat-tire biking.
The town of Jackson Hole becomes a winter wonderland, illuminated with festive decorations, embodying a vibrant holiday spirit reminiscent of a Dickensian village.
Spring in Jackson Hole
With the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park closed until mid-May, Jackson maintains a peaceful atmosphere well into spring, providing adventurous visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the mountain solitude.
During spring, weather can vary dramatically, presenting everything from late-winter snowstorms to warm, sunny days that fill rivers with melting snow and adorn the valley with wildflowers. Those who can embrace this unpredictability will be rewarded with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities as bears and other animals awaken from hibernation.
Many local businesses may operate with limited hours, as residents recharge before the bustling summer season begins. Celebrations like Old West Days and ElkFest during the last week of May draw visitors back in large numbers as the high season kicks off.
January–February
The winter performance series at the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts, which begins in January, features concerts by national touring bands and performances including The Moth.
From just before Christmas, Glow Lights in Teton Village, an environmental art installation produced by Jackson Hole Public Art, runs for a month.
Experience a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, home to North America’s largest migrating herd of wild elk, with guided tours available from December through early April, depending on snow conditions.
If the temperature is above zero degrees Fahrenheit, Wyoming Stargazing offers free events on the first Thursday of each month, where astronomy enthusiasts share their telescopes for public viewings of celestial wonders.
The International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race, featuring sled dogs and mushers, takes place in Alpine, south of Jackson.
March–April
Jackson Hole Rendezvous, an annual free music festival, is hosted at the Jackson Hole Resort in early April, along with Music Under the Tram, which begins in March.
March wraps up with the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb at Snow King.
May–June
Each May, Old West Days celebrates cowboy, pioneer, and tribal culture, featuring one of America’s largest horse-drawn carriage parades. ElkFest, with its famed antler auction, is another annual highlight.
The Arts Association of Jackson Hole coordinates an Outdoor Art Fair across two weekends, showcasing artists in diverse crafts and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss the National Museum of Wildlife Art and its enchanting sculpture trail.
During summer, national touring artists perform at Jackson Hole Live, an outdoor concert series at Snow King Ball Park, alongside the Grand Teton Music Festival featuring a range of musical styles.
July–August
In August, the Art Association of Jackson Hole repeats its summer Outdoor Art Fair, showcasing local artists and offering children’s activities.
The annual Fourth of July Parade attracts locals and visitors, featuring horseback riders, classic cars, and festive floats starting at the Teton County Fairgrounds and proceeding to Town Square.
Jackson Hole Live continues its summer concert series at Snow King Ball Park throughout August, while the Grand Teton Music Festival remains a key highlight for music lovers.
September–October
The 12-day Fall Arts Festival is a major event on the Jackson Hole calendar, featuring art shows, lectures, gallery openings, and a food/art crawl along with the Western Design Conference at Snow King.
Mid-October sees the National Elk Refuge marking National Wildlife Refuge Week with outdoor displays, art challenges, and contests.
November–December
Jackson Hole is renowned for its festive holiday spirit, showcasing a full calendar of holiday events—from community gingerbread exhibits to musical performances and art shows.
The tradition of New Year’s Eve celebrations includes torchlight parades and fireworks, with events hosted by Snow King, Grand Targhee, and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to ring in the new year. Visitors should check resort calendars for detailed information.
