National Parks Near Jackson Hole: What to See and Do

By JH Property Group

One of the most extraordinary aspects of living in Jackson Hole is its immediate access to some of the most celebrated public lands in the United States. National parks, state parks, and protected recreation areas surround the valley, shaping daily life and preserving the natural beauty that continues to draw people here.

At JH Property Group, we often work with clients who choose Jackson Hole specifically because these landscapes are not a vacation backdrop, but an extension of their home.

This guide highlights the national parks and state parks near Jackson Hole, along with what to see and do in each, offering a clear picture of how deeply outdoor access influences lifestyle in this region.

Grand Teton National Park borders Jackson Hole and is one of the most dramatic and accessible national parks in the country. The Teton Range rises sharply from the valley floor, creating a striking alpine environment that feels both wild and intimate.

The iconic Teton peaks dominate nearly every view. Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake, and the Snake River provide reflective water scenes that are instantly recognizable.

Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of moose, elk, bison, and bald eagles.

Grand Teton National Park offers:

• Hiking trails ranging from lakeside walks to high alpine routes
• World-class climbing and mountaineering
• Scenic paddling on lakes and calm river sections
• Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter

For residents of Jackson Hole, the park often becomes part of a daily routine rather than a special occasion destination.

Located just north of Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world and one of the most geologically unique places on Earth.

Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Hot Springs are among its most famous landmarks.

The park also offers vast wildlife habitats with opportunities to see bison, wolves, grizzly bears, and elk.

Visitors and locals alike enjoy:

• Scenic drives through varied landscapes
• Hiking to waterfalls, canyons, and thermal basins
• Wildlife watching and photography
• Winter snowcoach tours and cross-country skiing

Many Jackson Hole residents take advantage of early morning or off-season access to experience Yellowstone with fewer crowds.

Surrounding much of Jackson Hole, Bridger Teton National Forest provides expansive recreation opportunities across millions of acres.

This forest includes alpine lakes, mountain passes, rivers, and dense forested areas that connect seamlessly with nearby parks and wilderness.

Bridger Teton National Forest supports year-round recreation, such as:

• Hiking and backpacking
• Mountain biking
• Fly fishing on rivers and streams
• Snowmobiling and backcountry skiing

For many locals, this land serves as a backyard playground with easy access from town and residential neighborhoods.

In addition to national parks, Wyoming state parks offer more localized recreation with fewer visitors and easier access.

Located east of Jackson Hole, Curt Gowdy State Park is known for its reservoirs and trail systems.

Activities include:

• Boating and paddleboarding
• Fishing and camping
• Mountain biking and hiking

While smaller in scale, local state and community-managed parks support everyday recreation such as walking, biking, and wildlife viewing close to residential areas.

Proximity to national and state parks is one of the most defining lifestyle benefits of Jackson Hole. Homes located near park boundaries, trailheads, or open space often carry added value and long-term appeal.

Buyers frequently prioritize:

• Direct access to protected land
• Views of preserved landscapes
• Quiet surroundings with limited development
• Easy entry to hiking, skiing, and wildlife areas

These factors not only enhance daily life but also support long-term real estate stability.

Jackson Hole’s surrounding parks and forests ensure that the valley retains its character. Conservation efforts limit overdevelopment and protect the natural assets that make the region unique.

For homeowners, this means confidence that views, access, and lifestyle are preserved for future generations.

Grand Teton National Park borders Jackson Hole directly. Yellowstone National Park is approximately one to two hours away, depending on the entrance and seasonal road access.

Yes. While access varies by season, all parks offer year-round experiences, including winter recreation and wildlife viewing.

Homes with proximity to protected land often command premium pricing due to limited supply, views, and lifestyle benefits.

Generally yes. State parks and national forests often offer quieter experiences while still providing excellent recreation.

National parks and state parks are not just nearby attractions in Jackson Hole. They are integral to how people live, explore, and connect with the land. From daily hikes in Grand Teton National Park to weekend adventures in Yellowstone and quiet evenings near protected open space, these landscapes shape the rhythm of life here.

At JH Property Group, we help clients find homes that place them close to what matters most. If access to national parks, state parks, and preserved land is part of your vision, Jackson Hole offers an unmatched opportunity.

To explore Jackson Hole real estate and learn more about living alongside these iconic landscapes, visit https://jacksonhole-real-estate.com/. We look forward to helping you discover your place in this remarkable region.