MileHacker Logo
Practical Information

Practical Information

Wyoming, USA

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Providers

Major U.S. Carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer good coverage in Jackson and Teton Village. However, coverage may be limited or absent within Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, especially in canyons and remote areas.

Options for Connectivity

  • Prepaid SIMs: Obtain at carrier stores in larger towns or order online.
  • ESIMs: A convenient choice for compatible phones, activation possible prior to arrival.
  • Solis Wi-Fi devices for portable internet.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi Availability

Most accommodations provide complimentary Wi-Fi. Many restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi for their customers. Public Wi-Fi access is limited in downtown areas. Within National Parks, Visitor Centers typically include Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may be slow due to high use.

Additional Connectivity Notes

  • Hotels and lodges are reliable for internet.
  • Cafes and eateries often include Wi-Fi.
  • Park Wi-Fi for basic needs only.

Postal Services

U.S. Post Office branches are present in Jackson for sending mail or packages.

Postal Tips

  • Postcards from national parks are available.
  • Shipping services for souvenirs.
  • Find a post office in downtown Jackson.

Language & Translation Resources

English is the common language in Jackson Hole. Translation apps like Google Translate can be helpful for non-English speakers, though seldom necessary for general interactions.

Basic English Phrases

  • "Hello," "Thank you," "Please"
  • "How much does this cost?"
  • "Where is the restroom?"

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

  • Retail/Shops: Generally 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.
  • Restaurants: Breakfast often 7:00 AM, Lunch 11:30 AM, Dinner 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM. Kitchens often close by 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
  • Bars: Often open until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM.
  • Banks: Typically Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. Some Saturday morning hours.

Seasonal Closures & Holidays

  • Shoulder Seasons: Many businesses and lodges may close for a few weeks in late April/early May and late October/mid-December.
  • National Parks: Roads, visitor centers, and campgrounds within Grand Teton and Yellowstone often close for winter.
  • Federal Holidays: Banks and government offices closed. Many tourism businesses remain open or have special holiday hours.
  • ATMs are widely available at banks, grocery stores, hotels, and convenience stores in Jackson and Teton Village.

Learn Local Phrases

For those interested in language learning before or during their trip, platforms like Rosetta Stone offer diverse language courses to enrich your travel experience.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interactions that consider local culture and customs contribute to a harmonious visit.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Hello" or "Hi" serves as a common greeting. Handshakes are typical for formal introductions.

Appropriate Attire

Jackson Hole maintains a generally casual dress code. For daytime activities and outdoors, functional clothing is standard. Evenings often suit casual to smart-casual attire at most restaurants and bars; formal wear is rare.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping for service staff is customary. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. See Section 2.3 for detailed tipping guidelines if available.

Photography Permissions and Restrictions

Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Regard their privacy. Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife. Never harass or feed wildlife for a photo. Use a long lens for images from a safe distance. Observe signs regarding no photography on private property.

Photography Best Practices

  • Request permission for people.
  • Respect wildlife boundaries.
  • Observe private property rules.

Taboos and Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussions on politics or religion with strangers unless discussions are initiated and comfortable for all parties. Do not litter or harm natural resources. Do not approach or feed wildlife; this practice is both dangerous and illegal.

Sensitive Topics to Avoid

  • Politics or religion with new acquaintances.
  • Littering or damaging nature.
  • Feeding wild animals.

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+ Information

Gender

  • Gender roles are generally egalitarian.

Lgbtq+

  • Jackson Hole is generally considered a welcoming and inclusive community.
  • This atmosphere extends within the tourism industry.

Communication Services

For international visitors, Airalo offers eSIM services for mobile data access, keeping you connected throughout your journey.

Accessibility Information

Jackson Hole welcomes all travelers. Research helps those with specific accessibility needs to plan their trip.

Infrastructure for Travelers with Mobility Challenges

Downtown Jackson includes sidewalks and curb cuts for easier navigation. Within National Parks, many visitor centers, popular viewpoints, and some boardwalks or short trails are wheelchair accessible. START buses are wheelchair accessible.

Accessible Locations

  • Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center.
  • Jenny Lake Visitor Center.
  • National Museum of Wildlife Art is fully accessible.

Services for Visual or Hearing Impairments

National Parks offer accessible information, including large-print materials or audio descriptions at some visitor centers. Service animals are generally welcome in public places.

Support Services

  • Large-print materials available.
  • Audio descriptions at select locations.
  • Service animals are welcome.

Accessible Attractions and Transportation

Grand Teton National Park features accessible options at Colter Bay Visitor Center and accessible sections of pathways, like the Jenny Lake Discovery Trail. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's Aerial Tram and Bridger Gondola are accessible.

Accessible Features

  • National Museum of Wildlife Art includes ramps and elevators.
  • Accessible tram and gondola at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
  • START buses are equipped for accessibility.

Resources and Organizations

The official websites for Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks post detailed accessibility information. Jackson Hole Adaptive Sports provides adaptive recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Further Assistance

  • National Park Service for detailed access info.
  • Jackson Hole Adaptive Sports for specialized equipment or guides.
  • Contact organizations for specific needs.

Airport Services and Compensation

Airport Lounges

  • Priority Pass provides frequent travelers with airport lounge access.
  • Benefit from a 10% commission and 30-day cookie window.

Flight Compensation

  • Compensair helps with compensation for flight delays or cancellations.
  • Fixed commission per claim (€5-12) with a 30-day cookie.

Financial & Banking Considerations

Currency

  • The U.S. Dollar (USD) is the local currency.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted.

ATMs

  • ATMs are present in banks, grocery stores, and hotels.
  • Consider informing your bank about travel plans.

Travel Prepared

Having knowledge of local practices and available services can make your Jackson Hole journey seamless and enjoyable.