Jackson Hole Summer Activities- IOTC Recommendations

Jackson Hole B&B Recipe: Banana Oat Bites
March 25, 2015
Jackson Hole Activity- Bicycling in Grand Teton National Park
April 13, 2015
Show all

Jackson Hole Summer Activities- IOTC Recommendations

Jackson Hole Summer Activities

jackson-hole-summer-activities

The beautiful valley of Jackson Hole has so much to discover on your summer vacation.

Summer in Jackson Hole has something for everyone! Hiking, biking and rafting are just a sampling of the plethora of outdoor activities available. The area is a wonderful place to try these activities for the first time or hone your skills. The staff at Inn on the Creek is pleased to make suggestions and answer further questions on all the activities listed below.

Wildlife Tours

Viewing the Jackson Hole wildlife in the summer is a thrill! Take a sunrise, sunset or full day tour of the area and its wildlife. A Naturalist will educate you on the geology and ecosystem of the area as well as the local history and folklore. We recommend taking these tours early in your trip to get a good lay of the land and to become knowledgeable about the area.

Eco Tours Adventures – (307) 690 – 9533 The delightful guides will educate you on the area and make sure you have an enjoyable, fun tour. Definitely, not to be missed!

Rafting Adventures

There are a number of businesses in the valley that can take you down the Snake River, and most companies offer both whitewater rafting and scenic float trips.  For those seeking more adventure the 8-mile whitewater trips are an excellent way to experience the Snake River as well as the beautiful canyon it carves.  Prepare to get wet as you paddle through the class II/III rapids—most famously, Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna.  The scenic float trips are another fantastic way to enjoy the river.  With a more relaxing pace, you’ll have the opportunity to see wildlife and take in panoramic views of the Tetons and other mountain ranges surrounding the valley.  Here are some great companies to check out for your upcoming vacation:

Jackson Hole Whitewater – (307) 733-1007

Dave Hansen Whitewater –  (800) 732-6295

Barker-Ewing – (800) 448-4202 or (307) 733-1000

 

Horseback Riding

Our experienced local outfitters offer a number of different options from an hour-long ride to a multi-day trip.  Horseback riding is a fantastic way to get out and see the landscape in true Western style.  Here are some outfitters we recommend:

Horse Creek Ranch: A-OK Corral   –  (307) 733-6556

Spring Creek Ranch Horseback Riding – (800) 443-6139 or (307) 733-8833

Mill Iron Ranch –   (888) 808-6390 or (307) 733-6390

 

Biking

Offering exceptionally varied terrain, Jackson Hole is a wonderful place to hop on either a mountain or a road bike or both!  There are a number of excellent companies that provide tours or you can simply rent your own bike and venture out on your own.  Road: There are a number of pathways throughout town as well as a fully paved bike path beginning in the town of Jackson and ending at Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park.  Mountain: Cache Creek offers a series of trail systems for mountain bikers that can be accessed from town.  Teton Pass and Jackson Hole Bike Park (in Teton Village) are both excellent places to go downhill biking.  There are maps available for those interested in exploring the valley by bike.  Here are some options for bike rentals:

Dornan’s in Moose, WY – (307) 733-3307 or (307) 733-2415, ext. 302

Jackson Hole Sports in Teton Village, WY –  (307) 739-2687

Hoback Sports in Jackson, WY   – (307) 733-5335

Wilson Backcountry Sports in Wilson, WY – (307) 733-5228

Here are a couple of great local companies that offer bike tours:

Fat Tire Tours  – (307) 733-5335

Teton Mountain Bike Tours –  (800) 733-0788 or (307) 733-0712

 

Fishing

Opportunities abound for both fly and spin fishing in Jackson Hole.  With access to the lakes and streams in Grand Teton and Yellowstone as well as the Snake River, Flat Creek, the Green River, South Fork and Salt River there is no shortage of exceptional fishing spots.  Whether you decide to hire a guide or prefer to wade into the water on your own, there are a multitude of resources available to help plan your trip.  These are our favorite guide companies, sure to show you a few great fishing holes:

Fish the Fly – 307-690-1139

Snake River Anglers– 307-733-3699

New to fly fishing? We suggest heading out with Jackson Hole Fly Fishing School. They will teach you the skills necessary to enjoy this great sport. Catering to all levels, kids to adults, can take an on-land class as short as two hours, enjoy an on-river lesson or take a private float. Brush up on your skills or learn the necessary tactics to prepare for a day — or a lifetime — of fishing. Call (307) 699-3440

 Hiking/Backpacking

Jackson Hole and the surrounding area are full of wonderful hiking trails and hundreds of campsites.  Just a short drive from town is Grand Teton National Park which offers numerous hiking opportunities.  Whether you’re looking to do a rigorous trek to the highest peaks or a stroll through meadows of wildflowers, there is something for everyone.  This is by no means a comprehensive list, but here are a few great hikes to check out while in Jackson:

A few day hikes…

Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

Jenny Lake Loop — This hike around Jenny Lake offers amazing views of the Tetons and has minimal elevation change. 6.5 miles/ ~4 hours

Hidden Falls — Start with a ferry across Jenny Lake then hike 0.5 miles to the 200’ waterfall of Cascade Creek on west side of Jenny Lake. MODERATE

Inspiration Point — Reach the Point by hiking past Hidden Falls for .6 miles for an amazing overlook of Jenny Lake & Jackson Hole. The trail becomes rocky and steep past Hidden Falls. MODERATE to STRENUOUS. For more information on the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point Hike read our blog.

Bradley & Taggart Lakes —This trail is a loop that takes you by one or both lakes. It is relatively flat hike with excellent Teton views. 5.3 miles to both lakes or 3 miles out and back to Taggart Lake. For more information read our blog on this hike.

Phelps Lake LoopThis hike starts at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and visitor center, which is well worth stopping in before heading down the trail. With minimal elevation change, this easy 3 mile RT hike to the lake shore is a guests’ favorite!

~For additional information visit Grand Teton National Park website

Hikes in Bridger-Teton National Forest

Goodwin Lake — This 6 mile RT hike to an alpine lake just below Jackson Peak has stunning Teton views. We recommend it for hikers with moderate hiking ability and a four wheel drive vehicle for the forest service road to the trail head.

Ski LakeHike to a pristine alpine lake located on Teton Pass- 4.8 miles RT

~For additional information visit Bridger-Teton National Forest website

Take a guided hike with a naturalist from the Hole Hiking Experience. Learn about the ecosystem and geology of the area while heading down the trail.

Hole Hiking Experience – (866) 733-4453 or (307) 690-4453

 

Rodeo

Every Wednesday and Saturday night throughout the summer you can head to the Jackson Hole Rodeo grounds to check out one of the valley’s oldest traditions.  Offering everything from bull riding to calf roping it is sure to be a good time!  For more info visit the JH Rodeo site at www.jhrodeo.com or give them a call at (307) 733-7927.

 

Art Galleries

Within a short walking distance of the Inn are over 20 galleries filled with local, national and internationally acclaimed artists. You can find traditional and contemporary western art, wildlife art, and modern art.   A variety of styles and materials are represented, and something for every art lover can be found. The Jackson Hole Gallery Association hosts an art walk on the third Thursday of each month.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

The National Museum of Wildlife Art has something to appeal to everyone- the spectacular architecture of the building, amazing setting and views, large collection of world renowned art, delicious dining and a terrific gift shop. All this, and it’s only a quick ten minute drive from the Inn on the Creek. The prestigious collection is internationally acclaimed and contains both well-known master artists as well as modern ones.

 

Teton Village

The home of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Village has much to offer vacationers in the summer. A trip to the top of Rendezvous Mountain (10,450’) on the Aerial Tram is an unforgettable experience. The views from the top are breathtaking so do not forget your camera. From the top of the Tram, you can hike to pristine alpine lakes or hike down to the top of the gondola and the Couloir Restaurant. Happy Hour at the Couloir should not be missed! After you hike down or ride the gondola up to the restaurant, sit back and enjoy great cocktails and appetizers with lovely views of the valley below. Bring a sweater, as it can be chilly at 9,095’. The village also has a variety of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as more adventurous activities such as a ropes course, downhill biking, and paragliding.

 

Hot Air Ballooning

A hot air balloon ride is undoubtedly the best way to watch the sunrise over the valley and take in magnificent Teton views.  A typical ride launches just before sunrise near Teton Village and lasts about an hour. You may get aerial views of wildlife or perhaps you are able to witness the early morning bustle of a working ranch. It’s a terrific activity to share with that special someone on a romantic, private ride.

Wyoming Balloon Company – (307)739-0900

Teton Balloon Flights – 866-533-6404 or (208)787-5500

Climbing/Mountaineering

With the Tetons only a short drive away, Jackson is a popular destination for those seeking to pursue their climbing ambitions.  There are two companies that teach climbing and mountaineering techniques and lead trips in the Teton Range.  Check out these companies to learn more about the services and programs they provide:

Exum Mountain Guides – (307) 733-2297

Jackson Hole Mountain Guides –  (800) 239-7642 or (307) 733-4979

 

Jackson Hole Shooting Experience

JH Shooting Experience offers a variety of shooting activities to accommodate anyone’s interest—including a multi-gun experience.  They also have excellent guides providing instruction for those new to shooting.  It’s a true western experience.  Check out their website at www.shootinjh.com or call (307) 690-7921 for more information.

 

Yellowstone National Park

Things to do in a day…

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

20 miles long, 4,000 feet wide and nearly 1,200 deep in areas, this impressive canyon is a must-see when visiting Yellowstone National Park.  In addition to its enormous size, the canyon offers active geysers and hot springs as well as nearby scenic hikes.  Although it takes nearly 2.5 hours to reach the Canyon from the town of Jackson, the beautiful scenery along the way makes the drive well worth it.

 Old Faithful Geyser

Yellowstone is home to about half of the world’s geysers—with Old Faithful standing out as the most famous.  Erupting an average of once every 92 minutes, this geyser has been known to shoot water as high as 190 feet into the air.  But that’s not all, just beyond Old Faithful lays the Upper Geyser Basin which contains several groups of hot springs as well as 150 geysers.  Plan to spend some time exploring this area.  To reach this section of the park requires a 2 hour drive from the town of Jackson.

Ranger-led Interpretive Tour

Venture out into the park with the help of one of Yellow National Park’s knowledgeable rangers.  Stop by one of the many visitor centers throughout the park to learn more about what tours are available and at what times.  Generally there are programs throughout the day focusing on a variety of different topics related to Yellowstone.

Tours of Yellowstone-

 The opportunities for guided tours in Yellowstone are both numerous and diverse.  Whether you’re in search of a wildlife safari or simply a driving tour of the park, the following companies can provide you with exactly the type of adventure you’re seeking:

Eco Tours Adventures – (307) 690 – 9533

Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools– (888) 945-3567 or (307) 733-2623

Brushbuck Guide Services – (888) 282-5868 or (307) 699-2999

Scenic Safaris – (888) 734-8898 or (307) 734-8898

Please email or call us with any further questions concerning the Jackson Hole Summer Activities listed above. Happy vacation planning and we look forward to welcoming you here soon!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

BOOK DIRECT

To receive the lowest rate online

CHECK AVAILABILITY