18 Essential Tips for Visiting Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole’s majestic mountains, untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife, and authentic Wild West ambiance have established it as a sought-after destination. Regardless of whether your visit is during the winter for skiing or in the summer for hiking and mountain biking, it is essential to familiarize yourself with Jackson Hole safety guidelines and etiquette beforehand.

From encounters with grizzly bears to engaging in backcountry activities, here’s a comprehensive guide for your visit to Jackson Hole.

1. Learn the Right Names

This area of northwest Wyoming can be challenging to navigate. “Jackson” refers to the town. “Jackson Hole” describes the valley that runs adjacent to the Teton Range; it includes the town of Jackson. “Jackson Hole Mountain Resort” is the region’s largest and most recognized ski area, located outside the town of Jackson in a community known as “Teton Village.”

“The Tetons” serves as an overarching term for the entire Teton Range, a segment of the Rocky Mountains. “Grand Teton” refers to the tallest peak in this range, towering at 13,775ft. (There are also Middle Teton and South Teton.) “Grand Teton National Park” spans 310,000 acres, safeguarding the Tetons.

Additionally, if you accidentally use the incorrect term, it is generally not a concern — locals are not likely to correct you. However, you will feel more assured once you become acquainted with the correct terminology.

2. Take It Easy While You Acclimate to the Altitude

The town of Jackson is situated at an elevation of 6,237ft above sea level. If you engage in hiking or skiing, you may attain heights exceeding 10,000ft. It is advisable to take it slow during the initial days while you acclimatize to the altitude, particularly if you are arriving from a significantly lower elevation. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath. Typically, these symptoms subside after a few days.

3. Check the Forecast and Prepare for Unexpected Weather Conditions

Similar to other mountainous destinations, the weather in Jackson Hole can be exceedingly unpredictable throughout the seasons. Snowstorms, thunderstorms, and flash floods can materialize swiftly, often with minimal notice. Prior to embarking on your daily adventure, consult the weather forecast — however, also remain prepared for sudden changes. If the forecast suggests incoming inclement weather, it is prudent to stay indoors or, at the very least, remain close to shelter.

4. Pack Layers and Waterproof Gear

Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, especially as clouds obscure the sun or winds intensify. It is possible to feel comfortable in a T-shirt and shorts during the afternoon. However, if you plan on remaining outdoors after sunset, it is likely that you will quickly become cold. Additionally, if you are hiking in Jackson Hole, there is potential for sudden rainstorms. Therefore, packing layers and waterproof gear is essential, ensuring you are prepared regardless of the current weather conditions.

5. Drink Water and Wear Sunscreen

At elevated altitudes, the sun’s intensity increases and humidity levels decrease. Consequently, individuals are more vulnerable to sunburn and dehydration in Jackson Hole. Allocate time to apply (and reapply) sunscreen, and consider utilizing a wide-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing. Bring along a reusable water bottle and keep it filled at all times. Even if this leads to more frequent bathroom breaks, you will feel significantly better if you maintain hydration.

6. Leave What You Find and Throw Away Trash

Your visit to Jackson Hole likely stems from its pristine wild areas and natural beauty. If you desire to preserve this environment for future visitors, it is vital to discard your waste properly (do not litter!) and leave everything as you found it. Avoid picking wildflowers, collecting rocks as mementos, disturbing bird nests, carving symbols into trees, or interfering with historical artifacts. The only thing you should be “taking” is photographs.

Similarly, always opt to hike on designated trails and remain “in bounds” — avoiding off-path detours, even when attempting to circumvent a puddle, as your footprints can compromise delicate ecosystems.

7. Keep Your Distance from Wildlife and Respect Seasonal Closures

It is widely known that tourists sometimes attempt to approach or take selfies with bison, elk, and other wildlife, which can lead to disastrous outcomes. Wildlife have existed in this area long before humans — and they can be substantially larger and more powerful than we are — thus it is critical to exercise respect and maintain distance. The National Park Service advises maintaining a distance of at least 300ft from bears and wolves, and no less than 75ft from all other wildlife.

Moreover, do not feed, chase, throw objects at, or harass wildlife in any way. For your own safety, never position yourself between a parent and their young.

Land management officials may also temporarily close hiking paths and recreation areas to safeguard animals, such as bald eagles or bighorn sheep. It is important to be aware of these closures and adhere to them.

8. Visit National Parks During Off-Hours or Shoulder Seasons for Smaller Crowds

Jackson Hole serves as the gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. These national parks are highly frequented, which may lead to congested parking, overcrowded hiking trails, and traffic delays. This situation is particularly prevalent during the summer months when school is out. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning, or during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. This strategy likewise applies to other popular attractions in Jackson Hole.

9. Take Public Transit or Use Hotel Shuttles

During the winter season — particularly on powder days — traffic and parking at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort can become quite congested. Moreover, parking fees can be expensive, with costs reaching up to $45 per day during peak times. You can alleviate this stress by reserving a hotel that provides a complimentary ski shuttle (many do), or utilizing the public START buses, which are available for a minimal fee.

Should you need to drive, consider delaying your arrival until later in the day to allow for the morning rush to dissipate. The same strategy applies when returning from your day’s activities — linger in Teton Village for après-ski dining or refreshments to let the traffic clear.

10. Give Yourself Buffer Days for Winter Travel

Especially if your visit is planned for the winter months, allow yourself several buffer days in case of inclement weather. Snowstorms can interfere with flights or even cause the Jackson Hole Airport to close, and roads may become impassable. (Trust me, I experienced being stranded in Jackson Hole during a significant snowstorm last winter.)

11. Stay at a Hostel or Go Camping to Save Money

Jackson Hole is well-known for its upscale hotels and million-dollar residences. However, this destination’s luxurious reputation should not mislead you — it is still feasible to enjoy a visit on a budget. Jackson Hole offers a surprising number of hostels and budget accommodations, such as Cache House, the Hostel, Alpine House, and Anvil Hotel. You can further reduce costs by opting to camp, as the minimal light pollution in Jackson Hole creates an exceptional environment for stargazing. It is advisable to reserve campsites and hotels early, as availability tends to diminish rapidly, especially during peak seasons.

12. Wear Protective Gear When Adventuring

Helmets should not be considered embarrassing. It is prudent to bring your own or rent one if you intend to ski, snowboard, mountain bike, climb, or participate in any similar activities that come with risks. When mountain biking, consider wearing elbow and knee pads, in addition to a chest protector.

Furthermore, always seek adventure with a companion — or, at the very least, inform someone of your destination plans.

13. Explore the Backcountry with a Guide

If you wish to ski off-piste and experience the backcountry, unless you are proficient and have completed avalanche safety training, hiring a guide is advisable. Arrange a guide through Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Backcountry Guides, Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, or other reputable outfitters.

Additionally, regardless of the type of outdoor recreation guide you employ — whether for white-water rafting, hiking, mountain skiing, or skiing — it is customary to provide a gratuity of 10 to 20%.

14. Slow Down to Keep Animals (and Yourself) Safe

Wildlife is prevalent throughout Jackson Hole. It is crucial to maintain vigilance and reduce speed while driving at dawn, dusk, and after dark, as a moose or bear may unexpectedly cross your path. During your drive, you may notice reflective moose cutouts positioned by the roadside, designed to capture your attention and remind you to adjust your speed.

15. Leave Elk Antlers on the Ground or Face a Hefty Fine

During spring, the multitude of elk, moose, and deer residing in Jackson Hole shed their antlers. While the temptation may exist to collect one as a keepsake, it is imperative to leave it undisturbed unless you have conducted appropriate research. Stringent state and federal regulations are in place regarding antler collection, and violations can result in significant fines and additional penalties. For instance, it is strictly prohibited to collect antlers from the National Elk Refuge; on other public lands, non-residents may not collect until May 8.

16. Learn the Right-of-Way on Trails

Numerous trails in Jackson Hole are multi-use, accommodating hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and other users. As might be expected, this shared space can lead to potential congestion; however, established etiquette exists. For example, in Grand Teton National Park, stock animals such as horses, mules, llamas, and burros possess the right-of-way. Should you encounter them, yield by stepping aside.

In addition, a good guideline is “wheels yield to heels,” meaning that cyclists should allow hikers to proceed first. When cycling on roads or paved paths, always make your presence known (by ringing your bell or announcing yourself) and pass on the left, while also slowing down around pedestrians.

17. Take Care with Fire and Respect the Rules

Given that regions in the West have faced relentless wildfires in recent years, Teton County is no exception. The wildfire season typically occurs from June to September; however, fires can ignite at any time of year. If camping, ensure your campfire is thoroughly extinguished with water before departing (drench it thoroughly). Smokers should ensure cigarettes are completely out, disposing of them responsibly.

Local authorities may implement fire restrictions based on prevailing conditions, which could prohibit activities like building campfires. Therefore, review the regulations governing fire safety prior to heading out, and strictly comply with them.

18. Carry Bear Spray and Safely Lock Food Away

In terms of wildlife encounters in Jackson Hole, bears are particularly noteworthy. The region is inhabited by both grizzly and black bears, and preparedness for potential encounters is essential. Always carry bear spray when venturing into the wilderness (if you are hesitant to purchase your own, you can rent some). Maintain noise as you hike and gradually back away in the event of a bear sighting. When camping, secure all food items — even items like toothpaste — in bear lockers or bear bags. It is advisable not to cook or consume food within your tent.