Things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Home to the famous elk antler arch that greets visitors from around the world, Jackson Hole is one of the most beautiful old west towns in the country. From its rich history to wildlife watching, there’s something for everyone in this incredible high mountain valley. Named after Davey Jackson, a mountain man who was a trapper in the area during the 1800s, it was originally a trade route stop for fur trappers across the western region. Over the years, tourism took over the small Wyoming town, yet it still holds true to its claim of being the last real mountain town thanks to conservation and sustainability. Keeping Jackson Hole wild is a passion of those lucky enough to call it home, but that wildness is what continues to draw so many each year. Do you love the outdoors and history? Enjoy classic bars and modern breweries? Jackson Hole should be at the top of your list to visit any time of year!

Visit Grand Teton National Park

Jackson Hole is home to what may be the most majestic national park in our country, the Grand Tetons. Towering mountain peaks above glacial fed lakes roamed by grizzly and black bears, moose, elk, pronghorn and more, it truly is a sight to be seen. Take a ferry across Jenny Lake to access remote hiking trails or camp in one of the seven campgrounds throughout the park. There’s something for every level of outdoor enthusiast. Take a leisurely (and stunning) drive an hour north and visit Yellowstone while you’re in town as well!

Mormon Row

Settled in the 1890’s by families from the Salt Lake region, Mormon Row was known as the town of Grovont. Iconic photos of Mormon Row include a large barn with the snow-capped Tetons in the background. Four barns and one homestead are all that remain of the small town that once was home to multiple ranches, a church and a school. Visitors can park nearby and walk the properties, all marked explaining the history of each building and the town.

Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Dripping with history, the classic bar began in 1933 yet while it exchanged hands a number of times over the years, the Cowboy Bar has always been a staple in Jackson Hole. From genuine leather saddle bar stools to false walls and hidden doors that allowed for drinking and gambling during the prohibition, every inch of this place has a story. In addition to the bar, there’s also an infamous stage that has hosted names such as Waylon Jennings, Vince Gill, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Jr. and so many more.

Jackson Hole Breweries

Love To-Go beer in crowlers? You can thank Jackson Hole for that. Local brewer Charlie Otto of Grand Teton Brewing Company was the inventor of the first modern crowler. The high mountain valley is filled with award-winning craft beers and micro-breweries. With that in mind, Jackson Hole is a fantastic place to stop along the Wyoming Beer Trail if you want to experience these beers for yourself. Visit Melvin Brewing (inside Thai Me Up, a phenomenal Asian cuisine restaurant), Snake River Brewing Co., StillWest Brewery, Grand Teton Brewing Company, and Roadhouse Brewery during your stay!

All Things Outdoors

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is often named the No. 1 ski resort in the country and for good reason. In a town that gets snow at high elevations sometimes year round, there’s never a lack of fresh powder to enjoy on over 2,500 acres of ski trails. Jackson Hole also has two additional ski resorts: Snow King Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee Resort. Not a cold weather person? Float the Snake River or go on a white water adventure during the warm months! For the casual hiker and backcountry explorer, the Tetons also offer over 200 miles of trails!

This article was originally written for the Spring 2022 Issue of Modern Cowboy Magazine. (Previously known as Cowboy Lifestyle Magazine). Catch more stories from this issue below!

Author

  • Lindsi Rian

    Running on Dutch Bros coffee and my love of travel, I’m always up for an adventure. I believe in exploring new places and drunken nights around a campfire. Unpopular opinion or not, Cards Against Humanity is the best game ever created. @lindsiriancreative

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