Best Jackson Hole Day Trip Ideas
Jackson Hole is an adventurer’s paradise, offering enough activities to fill a full vacation and keep you coming back for more. Moreover, the valley provides a perfect starting point from which to explore all that Wyoming has to offer.
With the Wild West firmly entrenched in its culture, Jackson Hole offers visitors a unique getaway. Just 60 miles away are two of America's most renowned national parks, providing additional opportunities to explore and immerse oneself in history. For those wanting an unforgettable journey through the gems that this region has to offer, here is our guide into things to do on day trips around Jackson Hole that are not to be missed.
Visit the Most Popular Barn in the Tetons
Explore the Gros Ventre River, meandering northeast from Jackson to Lower Slide Lake in Bridger-Teton National Forest. Embark on a short northward journey to Mormon Row – an iconic Grand Teton landmark that celebrates the Grovont settlement of pioneers past and testifies to their enduring legacy.
Take a journey to this captivating valley where an iconic, time-honored herd of more than 700 bison roam the hills and meadows. Snap photos of these majestic beasts or explore the handful of historical homesteads with their ruggedly beautiful barns that stir up nostalgia as they stand against the mountain backdrop.
The National Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge stands as a haven for the Jackson Elk Herd and other threatened wildlife, from majestic bison to graceful trumpeter swans. The refuge is also home to endangered species such as bald eagles and wolves, safeguarding their habitats for generations of animals.
Jackson Hole is home to a vast herd of majestic elk, numbering around 7,000 animals. The creatures roam across the Yellowstone landscape in an awe-inspiring display of strength and grace.
Get a unique perspective on the refuge with an in-depth visit to the interagency visitors center. The enthusiastic team will provide you insider knowledge so that you can make your trip truly memorable; explore winter's tranquil snowscapes via sleigh ride and take advantage of summer trails by foot or bicycle!
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park offers a majestic landscape of craggy mountains and stunning vistas. From May through October, visitors can explore the winding roads that lead to some truly remarkable sights unlike any other found in America's national parks. Though it is almost contiguous with Yellowstone, one should not be fooled into thinking there are no more secrets hidden here - spend your time discovering the enchanting beauty this National Park has to offer.
Explore the incredible Teton spires with a visit to Albright View, Glacier View, Snake River Overlook and Willow Flats Overlook. Take in unique perspectives of spectacular snow-capped peaks while discovering the beauty of GTNP.
Take a break from your journey and enjoy the beauty of nature at Colter Bay on Jackson Lake. Watch as experienced fly fishers cast their lines in Oxbow Bend before heading to Jenny Lake for an unforgettable experience exploring Hidden Lake and Inspiration Point by ferry. Be sure to take some extra time along the one-mile trail surrounding this magnificent lake, with potential sightings of moose meandering close by Moose Pond.
Grand Teton National Park is a treasure trove of breathtaking views, with the option to explore easy or challenging trails. Hikers are invited to take in two stunning mountain-rimmed lakes offering peaceful escape on the 1.8 mile round trip journey - String and Leigh Lakes; for those seeking even more grandeur, travelers can adventure along five miles of trail leading them past Bradley and Taggart Lakes renowned for their picture perfect mirror reflections.
Yellowstone National Park
Explorers in the 19th century were captivated by enigmatic, vibrant mineral springs and boiling mud pots of Yellowstone National Park. They aptly dubbed this awe-inspiring landscape a "hell," prompting an urgent call to action from naturalists for its conservation - one that would become the foundation of our national park system today.
Home to Old Faithful and other unique formations, Yellowstone National Park is a wonder of the natural world. Recognized as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites for its 10,000 hydrothermal features - more than half of all geysers on Earth - it also contains evidence that suggests an enormous supervolcano may lie beneath its surface. Incredible water eruptions from nearby geysers reach heights up to 180 feet tall with regularity every 1-2 hours at intervals determined by both season and activity level within the park itself.
What is the Best Vacation Rental in Jackson Hole?
Located just a few blocks from the iconic Jackson Hole Town Square, Hidden Hollow proudly offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Jackson in a one-of-a-kind way. Neighboring the National Elk Refuge, Hidden Hollow is not only conveniently located within walking distance to downtown Jackson Hole, but also provides guests with the most picture-perfect backyard view - the National Elk Refuge.