In collaboration with Hotels.com, I have been remembering a past trip to Jackson Hole with my family. Wow – Jackson Hole was so much more than what I expected. The girls and I tagged along on a fishing trip to Wyoming and found so many things to do near Jackson Hole that we are now ready to return. Who would have thought that that much can be in an area with so many amazing outdoors views to explore.
Jackson is a town in Wyoming’s Jackson Hole valley, home to 3 ski areas which is where the name Jackson Hole comes from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee Resort. The Town Square of Jackson, Wyoming is just at the foot of the mountains where the ski resorts are and features those famous arches made of shed antlers from the nearby National Elk Refuge. I must get to the National Elk Lodge next visit. The National Museum of Wildlife Art has works by Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keeffe. North are the peaks of Grand Teton National Park, as well as vast Yellowstone National Park.
Enjoy these things to do near Jackson Hole.
Spa Day Among Snow Capped Mountains
Want to see my favorite thing to do in Jackson Hole? Just take a look at this instagram photo of @SpaTravelGal relaxing at the Amangani Spa in Jackson Hole, WY. It was a special moment for sure. When you have a chilly morning turned into a warm afternoon, it is time for an aperol spritz to honor those snow capped mountains in view.
During my day at this Aman Spa I met a young intern and she is now a great friend. You never know what the clean air of Wyoming holds for you. Make it happen for yourself too.
Horseback Riding Up the Mountain
Nothing was more adventurous than the entire family going straight up a mountain in Wyoming past bear dens to the top of a mountain to overlook almost 3 states. While at the top of the mountain we grilled out provisions we had brought with us in the saddlebags. The grill is left at the top and chained to a tree. Bears might just learn to cook if we let them have it.
Find a place that knows their horses and what they can handle. Some horses don’t mind a novice like possibly yourself to take the reins. The build of the horse can also decide the body type that works best in their saddle. Horseback riding at Rockin’ M Ranch in Jackson, Wyoming is one of the places that really knows their horses. They take into consideration the body type and experience of the rider before matching it with the appropriate horse. This might be number one on the list of things to do near Jackson Hole.
Check out my article here on how to plan a day of horseback riding!
Alfresco Dining by a Warm Fireplace – Things To Do Near Jackson Hole
Alfresco Dining at the Four Seasons by a warm outdoor fireplace was a high point for me and the girls. We watched while the summer sports enthusiasts were riding the ski lifts up the mountains and mountain biking all the way down. I was so amazed how they had no fear going that fast. Nearby is lots of shopping. Know that you can land in Jackson Hole without proper attire for skiing or any activity and find it here. In the Jackson Hole resort you will find more stuff for ski days, and down the mountain in Jackson, Wyoming you will find enough boots and western wear than one could ever need to ride horses or just be stylist.
Where to Stay in Jackson Hole
When I was in Jackson Hole, I toured around visiting a lot of hotels just to take a look and to have knowledge to share with you my followers. Now if you are looking for remarkable hotels in Jackson Hole, you will find them. My first choice for my next trip there is the Four Seasons. I toured the Four Seasons Jackson Hole Spa, and vowed to myself to return. While they offer a full spa menu of delectable spa treatments – it was the spa’s outdoor area that had me wanting to lounge for a while. I know I could find some Zen there if allowed.
Cabin Dwelling
One trip we opted for a rustic cabin to stay in for the full experience. Knowing that the Snake River, horses and whatever wildlife decided to visit was just steps outside our door really added to the ambience of a western adventure.
Fly Fishing – Things To Do Near Jackson Hole
My husband’s number one activity is fly-fishing and that is what draws us to Jackson Hole, Wyoming various times throughout the year. Here you can see all of his fishing adventures at @FishTravelFun.
Wyoming is a star state when it comes to fly fishing. Just mention the name and avid fly fisherman quiver in their waders (boots). With over 27,000 miles of clear water to find for fishing, it is a dream come true for many. Land owners must leave their streams for public use in this state, so there are no boundaries when it comes to fishing in Wyoming.
The most well known rivers are the legendary Snake River and the Green River. The beautiful backdrops leave most fishermen in a trance until a moose wanders by. Yes, really! I know on this is number one for my husband on the things to do near Jackson Hole list.
Nearby Road Trip to Yellowstone
Yellowstone is only about an hour away. If you have never seen Old Faithful DO IT! Just be sure to check the traffic. Holidays can make a huge traffic jam when engineering Yellowstone’s south entrance. The traffic gets so bad many run out of gas. I can only think of one little gas station on the entrance road. So try to visit on off days to really have a great experience. Also you must time your day to see Old Faithful.
Old Faithful is a huge geyser located within Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming near Jackson Hole in the United States. It was named in 1870 during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition and was the first geyser in the park to receive a name and it is well deserved.
I believe every year in science class we read about Old Faithful as I was growing up in a day before the internet. The photos alone were remarkable. I am so glad I was able to show this spectacul to my children.
Visit Wyoming wants to remind you to “Be free to run like the wind, roar like a bear, and soar like an eagle. Push boundaries and never lose your childlike sense of adventure. Explore this video to plan your own escape to Wyoming’s great outdoors.” I AGREE!
Time for you to explore Jackson Hole, Wyoming and make your own list of things to do near Jackson Hole!
Traveling During Covid
As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk.
If you do decide to travel at this time, here are our recommendations:
- Wear a face mask.
- Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
- Check official websites before your trip for the latest updates on policies, closures and status of local businesses.
- Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.
Related: See more photos from our Jackson Hole family trip here.
