Jackson Hole is widely recognized for its unmatched natural beauty and year-round access to outdoor adventure. Framed by the dramatic peaks of the Teton Range and surrounded by national parks, rivers, and wide-open wilderness, it is a destination where the outdoors isn’t just a recreational option—it’s a way of life. Whether a full-time resident, a seasonal visitor, or someone considering relocation, discovering the top outdoor activities in Jackson Hole offers a window into the area’s vibrant and active lifestyle.
The outdoor culture of Jackson Hole is deeply ingrained in its community. Locals embrace the changing seasons, and the valley provides four-season recreation ranging from skiing and snowmobiling to hiking, fly fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. Every activity is underscored by a strong conservation ethic, with public lands, trails, and protected habitats offering access to experiences that are as enriching as they are exhilarating. For individuals and families seeking a place to live that prioritizes health, nature, and adventure, Jackson Hole is unparalleled.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is one of the most iconic alpine destinations in North America. With over 2,500 acres of in-bounds terrain and one of the longest continuous vertical drops in the country, the resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Known for its expert-level terrain, including the famed Corbet’s Couloir, the resort also offers terrain for beginners and intermediates, making it an all-ages winter playground.
For homeowners in Teton Village and surrounding areas, ski-in/ski-out access adds a level of convenience that integrates seamlessly into daily life during the winter season. The mountain’s world-class infrastructure, combined with unparalleled backcountry access, cements its place at the top of any list of outdoor activities in Jackson Hole during the colder months.
For homeowners in Teton Village and surrounding areas, ski-in/ski-out access adds a level of convenience that integrates seamlessly into daily life during the winter season. The mountain’s world-class infrastructure, combined with unparalleled backcountry access, cements its place at the top of any list of outdoor activities in Jackson Hole during the colder months.
Hiking and Wildlife Viewing in Grand Teton National Park
Spring through fall, hiking becomes one of the most popular outdoor activities in Jackson Hole, offering a close connection to the region’s pristine natural surroundings. Grand Teton National Park is just minutes from town and boasts over 200 miles of trails. Hikers can enjoy everything from short, family-friendly loops around lakes like Jenny Lake and Taggart Lake, to more challenging ascents like the Cascade Canyon Trail or the climb to Paintbrush Divide.
In addition to the hiking, Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places in North America for wildlife viewing. It’s common to spot moose, elk, mule deer, bison, black bears, and even grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Birdwatchers will appreciate sightings of bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and trumpeter swans. This access to such diverse wildlife, paired with breathtaking scenery, is one of the defining features of the Jackson Hole lifestyle.
In addition to the hiking, Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places in North America for wildlife viewing. It’s common to spot moose, elk, mule deer, bison, black bears, and even grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Birdwatchers will appreciate sightings of bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and trumpeter swans. This access to such diverse wildlife, paired with breathtaking scenery, is one of the defining features of the Jackson Hole lifestyle.
Whitewater Rafting and Scenic Floats on the Snake River
In the summer, the Snake River offers a different perspective of the valley and is central to some of the most exciting outdoor activities in Jackson Hole. For thrill-seekers, the whitewater section south of town features Class II and III rapids that offer adventure while remaining accessible for beginners. Rafting companies provide guided trips that balance excitement with safety and storytelling about the river’s ecology and history.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, scenic float trips through Grand Teton National Park offer a peaceful way to observe wildlife and take in the surrounding landscapes. These floats are particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when wildlife is most active and the Tetons reflect beautifully off the water. River-based recreation is central to the summer lifestyle in Jackson Hole and adds another layer to the area’s multi-season appeal.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, scenic float trips through Grand Teton National Park offer a peaceful way to observe wildlife and take in the surrounding landscapes. These floats are particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when wildlife is most active and the Tetons reflect beautifully off the water. River-based recreation is central to the summer lifestyle in Jackson Hole and adds another layer to the area’s multi-season appeal.
Fly Fishing in World-Class Waters
Jackson Hole is home to some of the finest fly fishing opportunities in the country, attracting anglers from around the globe. The Snake River, Gros Ventre River, and nearby Green and Hoback Rivers all provide excellent fishing for native cutthroat trout and other species. Anglers can fish directly from the riverbanks, wade into shallow waters, or book guided float trips for more remote access.
Fly fishing in Jackson Hole is more than a pastime—it’s part of the cultural fabric. Whether as a weekend ritual or a daily escape, it’s an activity that offers solitude, skill development, and immersion in the region’s peaceful waterways. Local outfitters and guides offer classes for beginners and advanced experiences for seasoned anglers, making this one of the most approachable outdoor activities in Jackson Hole for people of all ages and skill levels.
Fly fishing in Jackson Hole is more than a pastime—it’s part of the cultural fabric. Whether as a weekend ritual or a daily escape, it’s an activity that offers solitude, skill development, and immersion in the region’s peaceful waterways. Local outfitters and guides offer classes for beginners and advanced experiences for seasoned anglers, making this one of the most approachable outdoor activities in Jackson Hole for people of all ages and skill levels.
Mountain Biking and Trail Running
As snow melts and trails dry out, Jackson Hole transforms into a haven for mountain biking and trail running. The valley is home to a growing network of singletrack trails, ranging from gentle forest loops to adrenaline-pumping downhill descents. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort opens its lifts to bikers in summer, allowing for easy access to high-altitude trails and stunning panoramic views.
In addition to biking, trail running has become increasingly popular among locals, who enjoy the physical challenge and the chance to experience nature at a different pace. Trails in the Cache Creek area, Snow King Mountain, and Munger Mountain provide varied terrain, while the views are always rewarding. These activities promote health and well-being and further solidify Jackson Hole’s reputation as a place where the outdoors is woven into everyday life.
In addition to biking, trail running has become increasingly popular among locals, who enjoy the physical challenge and the chance to experience nature at a different pace. Trails in the Cache Creek area, Snow King Mountain, and Munger Mountain provide varied terrain, while the views are always rewarding. These activities promote health and well-being and further solidify Jackson Hole’s reputation as a place where the outdoors is woven into everyday life.
Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing
While downhill skiing draws most of the winter attention, snowmobiling and Nordic skiing offer additional ways to explore the landscape. The nearby Togwotee Pass and Gros Ventre Range provide hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails, with access to backcountry powder, frozen lakes, and expansive alpine views.
Cross-country skiing is popular in both Grand Teton National Park and at local groomed trails like the Jackson Hole Nordic Center and Trail Creek Ranch. These quieter winter sports provide a different kind of experience—one that emphasizes endurance, rhythm, and serenity in the snow-covered landscape. For many locals, these options offer year-round diversity and balance in their winter recreation.
Cross-country skiing is popular in both Grand Teton National Park and at local groomed trails like the Jackson Hole Nordic Center and Trail Creek Ranch. These quieter winter sports provide a different kind of experience—one that emphasizes endurance, rhythm, and serenity in the snow-covered landscape. For many locals, these options offer year-round diversity and balance in their winter recreation.
Embracing the Jackson Hole Lifestyle Year-Round
What sets Jackson Hole apart is not just the access to outdoor recreation, but the deep integration of these pursuits into the fabric of the community. Outdoor events, fitness groups, conservation initiatives, and local businesses all support a lifestyle built around the valley’s natural surroundings. For homeowners, the year-round access to top-tier recreation translates to an enhanced quality of life and a tangible connection to place.
Whether hiking in the spring, fishing in the summer, biking through the fall, or skiing through winter, the variety and accessibility of outdoor activities in Jackson Hole remain one of the area’s greatest assets. It’s not just about what you can do here—it’s about how the landscape shapes the way you live.
Whether hiking in the spring, fishing in the summer, biking through the fall, or skiing through winter, the variety and accessibility of outdoor activities in Jackson Hole remain one of the area’s greatest assets. It’s not just about what you can do here—it’s about how the landscape shapes the way you live.
Find Your Ideal Home Near the Best Outdoor Activities in Jackson Hole
If you’re looking to make Jackson Hole your permanent home or invest in a property that supports an active lifestyle, contact JH Property Group today. Their in-depth knowledge of local neighborhoods, proximity to outdoor access points, and understanding of seasonal recreation trends will help you find a home that puts you in the heart of the action. From ski chalets to riverfront retreats, JH Property Group can guide you to the properties that align with your passions and lifestyle goals.
