Want to make the most of winter in Jackson Hole, WY? From world class skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, we've compiled a list of the best winter activites in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park.
1. Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing in Grand Teton National Park
Some of the best nordic skiing in the country can be found below the towering peaks of Grand Teton National Park. From the Bradley-Taggart Trailhead 14 miles of groomed trail await for classic or skate skiing. Many nordic skiers will enjoy traveling off trail to follow the meanders of Cottonwood Creek or visit the Lucas Fabian Homestead.
For those not wishing to ski, snowshoeing is an easy activity for any ability level to encounter the winter wonderland of Jackson Hole as well. One of our favorite areas to explore is the Granite Canyon Trailhead near Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Our friends at JHNordic have a great database of routes to try out on your own, we also offer guided cross country and snowshoe tours. Our experienced Nordic Naturalists come with a wealth of information about winter ecology, off the beaten path places to explore, and are PSIA certified Nordic Instructors offering tips and tricks to improve your skiing techniques. Check out our Half Day Snowshoeing and Full Day Snowshoeing programs and Half Day Cross Country and Full Day Cross Country Ski Tours.
We are happy to accommodate any ability level and will provide all of the necessary snowshoeing equipment.
2. Experience the Winter Wildlife of Jackson Hole!
With world class skiing and world class wildlife residing in the same valley, Jackson Hole is like nowhere else on earth. The valley floor provides critical winter range to large herds of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, moose, bison, and pronghorn antelope. With the 25th anniversary of Wolf Reintroduction coming up in January, winter is a great time to look for wolves in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park. Likewise, golden and bald eagles, arrive in large numbers to scavenge on those unable to survive winter’s grasp. Waterfowl, including trumpeter swans and many species of ducks congregate on the spring fed waters of Flat Creek. Let the experienced naturalists at Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures show you the best the “American Serengeti” has to offer in a half day, full day, or multi day trip!
3. Skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee and Snow King
The world class downhill skiing and snowboarding of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort consistently earns the top ratings in National Polls. Though the resort is known for extreme skiing, it's beginner and intermediate terrain offers plenty of options for all abilities. Riding the tram over 4000’ vertical feet takes you to the high alpine, complete with views of the Grand Teton. This is the home of the wolverine, perhaps North America’s toughest athlete, though thrill seekers at the resort will attempt to keep up!
Other nearby resorts include Grand Targhee, located on the western side of the Tetons, which offers its own view of the Tetons. Those staying in Jackson may want to explore the slopes of Snow King, or the town hill. Snow King also offers tubing, ice skating, a mountain coaster and more.
4. Dog Sledding with Iditarod racer Frank Teasly.
Want to explore some other nearby mountains by dogsled? Iditarod racer Frank Teasly offers guided dogsled trips into the Gros Ventre Mountains and Granite Hot springs! The beautiful route takes you 9 miles up Granite Creek in the Bridger Teton National Forest. Call 307 733-7388 to book!
4. National Elk Refuge
Established in 1912, the National Elk Refuge is a winter refuge for thousands of elk, some from as far north as Yellowstone National Park. Many other animals are found on the refuge as well ranging from abundant bird life to bison, pronghorn antelope bighorn sheep, and wolves! Sleigh Rides can be arranged by visiting the Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, which currently has a fantastic exhibit on winter adaptations, and beginning on the 26th of December, the pronghorn migration. Ecotour Adventures also offers a Winter Wildlife Experience which includes a morning safari in Grand Teton National Park and the Refuge, a sleigh ride out to the elk herd, and a visit to the nearby National Museum of Wildlife Art!
5. National Museum of Wildlife Art
One of the best collections of wildlife art in the world is found right here in Jackson, WY. The National Museum of Wildlife Art, designed to blend into the surrounding hillside of the East Gros Ventre Butte, overlooks the National Elk Refuge. Winter wildlife are often abundant surrounding the museum, we’ve even seen elk and deer walking amongst their own likenesses in the sculpture garden! The museum is a welcome respite from winter’s chill, and visits can be combined with a refuge sleigh ride and morning wildlife safari from Jackson Hole Ecotour Adventures for a complete winter wildlife experience.
6. Raptor Encounters with the Teton Raptor Center
Enjoy an hour-long educational experience with live raptors at the historic Hardeman Ranch in Wilson, Wyoming, suitable for all ages. Meet our resident raptors and learn about birds of prey in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. A portion of the program is outside, so please dress accordingly. Raptor Encounters are Saturdays at 2pm and reservations are required.
We hope that this list of the best winter activities in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park helps maximize your winter experience, please let us know if you have any questions or need help planning a vacation here!
Josh Metten has spent his entire life exploring and living in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and Wyoming. He is an Ecotour Adventures naturalist, photographer, conservationist, and outdoor enthusiast. Josh lives in Jackson, WY.
Eco Tour Adventures was created with the idea of helping people connect with the natural world through wildlife observation and natural history interpretation. We believe that when one is more familiar with the intricate workings of the ecosystem, he or she has a deeper appreciation and connection with their environment. Join us on an adventure today!
