Long days, big adventures, and a whole lot of sunshine—summer in Jackson Hole is made for unforgettable moments. Book your Outpost rental and start planning your adventure today. Whether it’s your first visit or your annual getaway, there’s always something new to check off your list.
1. Take a Picture Under the Antler Arch
You haven’t really been to Jackson until you’ve snapped a photo under the iconic elk antler arches in Town Square. There’s an arch on each corner of the square.
2. Buy a Souvenir
Pop into one of the many shops around Town Square to find something uniquely Jackson, whether it’s a locally made candle, antler art, huckleberry jam, or a classic t-shirt at Lee’s Tees. It’s the perfect way to take a piece of the Tetons home with you.
3. Try Huckleberry Ice Cream
Huckleberries grow wild in the mountain regions of the West, and they’re a local favorite here in Jackson. Think of them as a tarter, more flavorful cousin to the blueberry. Stop by Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream for a scoop of their homemade huckleberry. It truly is the a must try summer treat.
4. Grab a Sloshie
A boozy frozen cocktail and Jackson summer go hand-in-hand. Grab a fresh grapefruit Greyhound from Creekside Market or the classic Bud’s Mud mudslide from Bud’s East Side Liquor. Head into the park or hike a bit up Snow King to sip while watching sunset.
Must be 21+ to consume. Drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
5. Saddle Up at the Cowboy Bar
Barstools made of saddles, neon signs, and live music – The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is a true Western experience and a must for first-timers. Browse upcoming concerts here.
6. Ride the Cowboy Coaster
Winding down Snow King Mountain, this alpine coaster might look like it’s for kids, but trust us, adults love it too. Check out their website for more information and to purchase tickets.
7. Top of Snow King
Hike it or ride up on the scenic gondola. Either way, the top of Snow King Mountain delivers incredible views of downtown Jackson and the Teton range. While you’re up there, check out the new Wyoming Stargazing Observatory and Planetarium, or grab a bite (and a cocktail) at Aurora, the newly opened restaurant with stunning dining views.
8. Watch the Sunset Over the Tetons
Head into Grand Teton National Park for a golden-hour view you won’t forget. Favorite spots include Schwabacher’s Landing, Mormon Row, and Signal Mountain, but scenic pull outs on the side of US-89/191 between town and Moose won’t disappoint either.
9. Visit Teton Village
Just a short 20 minute drive from town, Teton Village is the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and a great place to spend a summer afternoon. Ride the tram, experience the lift-accessed downhill mountain biking course, catch live music, wander the shops, or relax on the lawn with a drink. It’s a hub for events, activities, and easy mountain access.
10. Scenic Float on The Snake River
A peaceful float through Grand Teton National Park, this mellow ride keeps you mostly dry, but delivers big on Teton views and potential wildlife sightings. There are many great companies offering this trip, but if you are looking for a recommendation, we’ve had great experiences with Solitude Float Trips.
11. Whitewater Rafting on The Snake River
Head south of town to Snake River Canyon for an exciting ride through Class II–III rapids. While you won’t get Teton views here, the dramatic red rock canyon walls make for an entirely different kind of beauty, and the adrenaline rush is guaranteed. JH White Water offers an amazing trip, but similar to scenic float companies, there are many great guides in the area.
12. Cliff Jump at Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake offers a relatively mild hike with beautiful views into Death Canyon and a popular jumping rock on the east side of the lake that is perfect for cooling off on a warm summer day. We recommend parking at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, but keep in mind the lot is small and often fills early. Be prepared to wait in a car queue or arrive early. The park rangers in the parking lot are typically very helpful and often have pocket maps, but this blog post provides a detailed guide to finding the jumping rock and is worth reviewing before your adventure.
13. Paddleboard on String Lake
Surrounded by mountain peaks and pine trees, String Lake is shallow (which means the water’s warmer than most other lakes) and perfect for paddle boarding, swimming, or relaxing on the shore. It’s one of the best ways to spend a sunny afternoon in Grand Teton National Park.
14. Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for moose, elk, bears, pronghorn, and more. Early morning or dusk are your best bets. We recommend Jackson Hole Eco Tours and Jackson Hold Wildlife Safaris, for a more custom and guided experience. Get in touch with [email protected] for discounted codes for guests.
15. Fly Fish in the Tetons
With legendary rivers like the Snake, Gros Ventre, and Buffalo Fork, Jackson is a fly fishing paradise. Hire a guide or DIY – you’re in for a beautiful day either way. Snake River Anglers and Jackson Hole Anglers are two of our favorite outfitters.
16. Horseback Ride Through the Valley
Several local outfitters offer scenic trail rides with views of the Tetons, wildflowers, and (sometimes) wildlife. It’s a classic Jackson experience and really fosters that cowboy experience so many people look for when visiting.
17. Bike
Rent an e-bike from Teton Village Sports or bring your own and cruise the paved path from Teton Village into the park. Prefer dirt? The area is full of world-class mountain biking trails too, especially in Teton Village.
18. Explore Yellowstone National Park
Just over an hour from Jackson, Yellowstone is close enough for a day trip but packed with enough must-sees to fill an entire day. From geysers and bison herds to waterfalls and wide open views, it’s worth carving out the time. Check out this blog post to see how we’d spend a day in the park.
19. Watch the Rodeo
Every Wednesday and Saturday night, the Jackson Hole Rodeo brings classic Western action like barrel racing, bull riding, and more. Tickets sell out during peak season, so we recommend purchasing them ahead of time on their website.
20. Dornan’s
Located in Moose, Dornan’s is a classic summer stop. Their outdoor deck has one of the best views of the Tetons anywhere in the valley and is perfect for sipping a local beer or chowing down on their delicious pizza and pasta. It is the perfect hanger cure after a day in the park or a commemorative send off meal before catching a flight home.
21. Paraglide Above the Tetons
Take off from Snow King or Teton Village and soar over the valley for unbeatable views. It’s surprisingly peaceful and absolutely unforgettable.
22. Climb the Grand Teton
The ultimate Jackson Hole bucket list item. Standing 13,775 feet tall, the Grand requires a guide, technical gear, and serious endurance, but summiting it is the experience of a lifetime. The Mountain Guides and Exum are popular guiding companies.
However you choose to spend your time in Jackson, Outpost vacation rental serves as the perfect base and gets you close to the action. Be sure to tag @outpostjh on social media if you decide to check off any of the items on our list (or if you have a suggestion to add to the list). We love seeing your Jackson Hole adventures!
