Photo via Unsplash by Jesse Bowser
The Wild West in Winter: Jaw-dropping jagged peaks of the Teton Range rising sheer from the snowpack, thousands of wild elk wintering in the valley, and historic wooden boardwalks lit by iconic elk antler arches.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming combines big-mountain drama with authentic cowboy culture and world-class culinary retreats. Here is how to spend 3 unforgettable days in Jackson Hole during winter.
Day 1: Historic Jackson Town Square & Sleigh Rides
- Morning: Arrive at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)—the only commercial airport in the United States located entirely inside a national park! The view of the snow-covered Tetons from the tarmac is breathtaking.
- Afternoon: Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride onto the National Elk Refuge. Gliding within feet of thousands of wild wintering bull elk with massive antler racks, surrounded by snowy peaks, is a wildlife encounter you’ll never forget.
- Evening: Walk through Jackson Town Square beneath the four massive arches made from naturally shed elk antlers. Saddle up on genuine leather barstools at the legendary Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for live country music and local craft brews.
Day 2: Teton Village & Aerial Tram (Top of the World)
- Morning: Head to Teton Village and ride the famous Jackson Hole Aerial Tram (“Big Red”). In just 9 minutes, the tram climbs 4,139 vertical feet to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain at 10,450 feet elevation.
- Waffles at Corbet’s Cabin: Step out onto the summit ridge and order hot, made-to-order brown sugar and butter waffles at Corbet’s Cabin while watching elite skiers drop into the legendary Corbet’s Couloir.
- Afternoon: Rent cross-country skis or snowshoes and explore the peaceful, flat winter trails around Teton Pines or Granite Canyon.
- Dinner: Indulge in alpine dining at Snake River Grill or local game specialties at Gun Barrel Steak & Game House.
Day 3: Grand Teton National Park Photography & Hot Springs
- Morning: Drive north along Highway 89 to photograph iconic winter vistas: the historic Moulton Barn on Mormon Row backed by the Grand Teton, and the dramatic bend of the Snake River at Snake River Overlook (made famous by Ansel Adams).
- Afternoon: Drive into the Gros Ventre River wilderness to soak in the naturally heated mineral pools at Granite Hot Springs, surrounded by towering spruce trees heavy with snow.
- Departure: Grab warm cinnamon rolls at Persephone Bakery before heading to the airport.
🦌 Winter Wildlife Safety
Winter is a critical survival time for Jackson Hole wildlife. Never approach wild moose or bison on foot—always maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from moose and 100 yards from wolves or bears. Carry binoculars or a telephoto camera lens!