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Activities & Experiences

Activities & Experiences

Wyoming, USA

Outdoor Adventures

Routes for all skill levels and exciting water sports await you.

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Easy Trails

Jenny Lake Loop (6.6 miles) and String Lake Loop (3.7 miles) offer scenic, relatively flat walks.

Moderate Trails

Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point (via Jenny Lake boat shuttle or 5-mile hike) and Taggart Lake Loop (3 miles) are popular choices.

Strenuous Trails

Cascade Canyon Trail (9-14 miles) and Paintbrush Canyon Trail are challenging, iconic Teton hikes.

Water Sports and Activities

  • Whitewater Rafting (Snake River): Experience Class II-III rapids with numerous outfitters.
  • Scenic Floats (Snake River): Calmer sections focus on wildlife viewing, suitable for all ages.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing/SUP: Enjoy on Jenny Lake, String Lake, and Jackson Lake; rentals available.
  • Fly Fishing: Guided trips on the Snake River and its tributaries for anglers.

Adventure Sports

  • Heli-Skiing/Cat-Skiing: Access pristine backcountry.
  • Paragliding: Tandem flights for unique aerial views.
  • Rock Climbing/Mountaineering: Guided ascents available.
  • Via Ferrata (JHMR): Guided climbing on resort cliffs.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Guided Wildlife Tours: Maximize viewing in parks.
  • Self-Guided Driving: Antelope Flats, Moose Wilson Road.
  • Winter Sleigh Rides: Close-up views of thousands of elk.
  • Exceptional observation opportunities.

Cycling Routes

  • Paved Pathways: Extensive Jackson Hole Pathway System (56+ miles).
  • Mountain Biking: Lift-served at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
  • Snow King Mountain and National Forests (Teton Pass area).
  • Options for various skill levels.

Safety & Planning Note

Always check weather conditions and trail reports before outdoor activities. Wildlife precautions are important: maintain safe distances and carry bear spray in backcountry areas.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Jackson Hole's unique cultural fabric through various experiences.

Workshops and Classes

  • Art Classes: Local galleries or the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts offer painting, sculpture.
  • Photography Workshops: Guided tours focus on landscape and wildlife photography.
  • The Center for the Arts serves as the community's hub for performing arts.
  • Opportunity to capture the region's beauty and heritage.

Cultural Performances & Events

Jackson Hole Rodeo Summer

Weekly rodeo events showcase bull riding, barrel racing, and bronc riding for an authentic Western experience.

Jackson Hole Shootout Summer

A live, family-friendly street show re-enacting a Western gunfight on the Town Square.

Native American Events

Powwows and other events occasionally held in the region. Check local event calendars for dates.

Community-Based Tourism

Support local non-profits like the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum or the National Museum of Wildlife Art.

Cultural Festivals

Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival (September), Rendezvous Winter Festival (March), and Old West Days (May).

Language Learning

English is the main language. No specific local language programs for tourists are widely available.

Relaxation & Wellness

Balance adventure with relaxation at Jackson Hole's wellness offerings.

Spa and Wellness Centers

  • Many luxury hotels, like Four Seasons, Hotel Terra, and Hotel Jackson, have full-service spas.
  • A range of treatments for rejuvenation, including massages and facials.
  • Find tranquil escapes for mind and body.
  • Focus on natural elements for a calming experience.

Hot Springs and Natural Therapy

Granite Hot Springs

A natural hot spring pool open to the public, offering a rustic soaking experience. Access is seasonal.

Astoria Hot Springs

Reopened and renovated, offering developed natural hot pools for public use.

Yoga and Meditation

Some local studios or lodges offer yoga classes or retreats, providing peaceful settings for practice.

Additional Wellness Notes

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not widely promoted for tourists.

Pool Access

Hotel pools are common. The Jackson Hole Recreation Center has indoor and outdoor pools for public use.

Lake Beaches

Lake beaches are primitive, found at String Lake or Colter Bay, offering natural relaxation spots.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Jackson Hole's evenings feature live music, performances, and casual bar atmospheres.

Live Music Venues

  • Million Dollar Cowboy Bar: An iconic Western bar with live country music and dancing.
  • The Mangy Moose (Teton Village): A lively spot for live music, especially apres-ski.
  • The Stagecoach Bar (Wilson): A local favorite with a famous Sunday night bluegrass jam.
  • Jackson Hole Center for the Arts: Hosts a variety of national and international touring acts.

Theater and Performance Spaces

Jackson Hole Playhouse

Dinner theater featuring Western-themed musicals for an entertaining evening.

Jackson Hole Center for the Arts

Hosts various theatrical performances and cultural events throughout the year.

Late-Night Options

Bars typically close around 1-2 AM. Dining options become limited after 9 or 10 PM.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Downtown Jackson has several bars within walking distance, allowing for easy pub crawls and diverse choices.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Dedicated nightclubs are limited, but the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar offers dancing and a lively atmosphere.

Local Breweries

  • Snake River Brewing (Jackson's original brewpub).
  • Roadhouse Brewing Co. (downtown taproom).
  • StillWest Brewery & Grill.
  • Sample unique craft beers.

Evening Planning Tips

Dining Reservations
  • Popular restaurants may need reservations, especially for dinner.
  • Call ahead to confirm availability and hours.
  • Plan dinner earlier if you seek more options.
Live Entertainment
  • Check venue schedules for live music acts or special performances.
  • Some events may ticket purchases in advance.
  • Confirm age restrictions for certain bars or clubs.

Nightlife Consideration

Jackson Hole offers a more relaxed evening scene focused on local pubs and live music rather than large clubs. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

Shopping & Markets

Traditional Markets and Bazaars

  • Jackson Hole Farmers Market (Summer, Saturdays): fresh produce, local foods, artisan crafts.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Local galleries offer painting, sculpture, and other mediums.
  • Galleries in downtown Jackson specialize in Western art, wildlife art, and contemporary pieces.
  • Local Crafts: Items made from antler, local wood, and textiles.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Antler Art/Carvings: Small sculptures or functional items from naturally shed elk antlers.
  • Local Photography/Art Prints: Commemorate stunning landscapes and wildlife.
  • Western Wear: Cowboy hats, boots, buckles, and apparel.
  • Huckleberry Products: Jams, candies, and lotions are popular seasonal items.