From insane hiking trails to epic skiing, Jackson Hole is a top adventure destination. In fact, outdoor lovers around the globe consider this place an adventurer’s paradise. Whether you enjoy relaxing days by the river or hard-charging runs down the mountain, this area has something for everyone. Furthermore, it’s a great spot to travel in your campervan! Parking is easy, the campgrounds are chill, and peaceful nature is right in your backyard. What else could you want?
In this article, we’ll talk more about why Jackson Hole should be on your vancamping bucket list. We’ll discuss what to do there, where to stop along the way, the best campgrounds, and much more.
About Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is in the middle of a nature playground. Grand Teton National Park is arguably the top attraction of the area, found to the north. In all other directions, Jackson Hole valley has stunning forests and plenty to offer the outdoor enthusiast. And as other booming travel areas have exploded over recent years, Jackson Hole has stayed relatively isolated. Rather than relying on the travel industry as a main source of revenue, the town of only 10,000 people thrives off ranching and logging. However, Jackson Hole is starting to encourage more tourism in the area. While many people consider Jackson Hole a pass-through spot on the way to Yellowstone, this peaceful, gorgeous area could be the next adventure hotspot.
Where to Stop Along the Way
As Jackson Hole offers tons of adventure, you can enjoy several attractions before you even hit town.
Surrounded by beauty and remote wilderness, here are some places to check out on the drive over:
Headed North
When driving up towards Jackson Hole, we recommend making stops in Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. If you’re looking for a stunning hiking wonderland, visit Sedona, Arizona. There are tons of hiking trails scattered amongst the red rock. In Colorado, you could pass Durango, Telluride, and Silverton, which all feature incredible mountain views, quaint restaurants, and several cool spots to park your van. The Salt Lake City area in Utah is also a must-see, especially if you have your skis or snowboard with you!
Driving West
One cool spot just hours east of Jackson Hole is the Bighorn Mountains. This area features several outdoor attractions in the middle of beautiful mountains. It’s also a very secluded spot. If you’re driving across Wyoming, consider stopping in the Black Hills National Forest just passed the border. This area has awesome hiking trails, great wildlife viewing, and top-notch stargazing.
Headed South
If you’re cruising down towards Jackson Hole, you can’t pass up Yellowstone National Park. This massive, breathtaking area is a must-see. From insane wildlife to geothermal wonders your eyes won’t believe, Yellowstone is a place unlike any other. Another top area to check out is Glacier National Park in northern Montana. Here you can find spectacular mountain views, great campgrounds, and hiking trails everywhere.
Driving East
With Jackson Hole on the western edge of Wyoming, the incredible state of Idaho is right in your backyard. Before getting to Jackson Hole, consider stopping in the Sawtooth Mountains. This area features jagged mountain peaks, plenty of outdoor activities, and pristine rivers and lakes. Coeur d’Alene and McCall are some other sweet spots to check out. If you’re traveling from further west, you can find several outdoor adventures around Portland, OR and Seattle, WA
Jackson Hole—Year-Round Outdoor Excitement!
Once you drive into Jackson Hole, congratulations! You’ve arrived at a truly spectacular, postcard-esk place.
To have the trip of a lifetime, here are some of the area’s best activities and attractions:
Skiing & Snowboarding
Some people say Jackson Hole is one of the best skiing destinations in the world. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an advanced rider looking to hit the backcountry, this area has it all. While there are multiple ski resorts to check out, you can’t pass up Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Located in the northwest part of the valley, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village is something else. The resort features 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, sweet terrain parks, and a massive vertical drop of 4,139 feet! And as the area receives 400 inches of snowfall every year, there is plenty of powder to enjoy. If you’re looking for another fun mountain, visit Grand Targhee Resort or Snow King Mountain.
Hiking
No matter the time of year, Jackson Hole is known for its hiking opportunities. Whether you prefer steep trails up crazy mountains or peaceful strolls through the meadow, Jackson Hole has the hikes for you.
Here’s a list of some of the best and most scenic hikes in the area:
- Jenny Lake Loop: Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point
- Paintbrush Divide to Cascade Canyon
- Sleeping Indian
- Death Canyon & Static Peak Divide
- Phelps Lake Loop
- Teton Crest Trail
- Bradley Lake Loop
Biking
Looking to hop on a bike and fly down the trails? If so, Jackson Hole has what you need! The valley of Jackson Hole features over 56 miles of paved pathways that connect Jackson to Teton Village and Grand Teton National Park. This area also includes over 115 miles of mountain biking trails! If you’re searching for the best area to fly down the mountain, it may be Jackson Hole Bike Park. Located at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, riders take the Sweetwater Gondola up 1,200 vertical feet for a downhill adventure unlike any other!
Sightseeing
Jackson Hole is like a postcard. No matter which way you look, you’re bound to see an incredible view. That said, you shouldn’t have any problem looking for a great photo opportunity. However, there are some sightseeing areas you definitely don’t wanna miss. First and foremost, take a trip to the lakes at the foot of the Teton Mountains. Those mountain views will blow you away. You should also check out Schwabacher’s Landing, the National Elk Refuge, Rendezvous Peak, and Snake River Overlook.
Camping
Parking your van and setting up camp should never be an issue in Jackson Hole! The area has several campgrounds and dispersed campsites. Also, many of these sites feature magnificent views of the Tetons and beyond.
Here are some notable campgrounds to check out:
- Jackson Hole Campground
- Snake River Cabin and RV Village
- Virginian RV Park
- Colter Bay Campground
- Curtis Canyon Campground
If you’re looking for RV hookups, amazing scenery, and other awesome perks, you have to bring the campervan out to Jackson Hole!
Arts & Culture
Looking for a history lesson on Jackson Hole and the surrounding area? Luckily, this place is known for its museums and cultural experiences. First, try to head out to the Grand Teton Music Festival. Here you can find one of the most popular symphony orchestras in the Rocky Mountains. You should also visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which holds over 5,000 cataloged works of art. The museum works to boost and strengthen the relationship humanity has with nature.
Travel Tips
Any trip to Jackson Hole can be an incredible one. However, here are some travel tips to have an experience you’ll never forget:
- If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, you must check out Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
- To avoid the crowds and experience amazing weather, April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit
- Yellowstone is closeby, so try to make a trip out there
- Book tickets and hotels online, and reserve months ahead of time
- Consider getting a vacation rental if you’re traveling with a large group
- Plan hikes in the valley to see the stunning views of the Tetons
Map
Here are some links and addresses to learn more about the area:
Mountain Resorts
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: 3395 Cody Ln, Teton Village, WY 83025
- Snow King Mountain Resort: 402 E Snow King Ave, Jackson, WY 83001
- Grand Targhee Resort: 3300 Ski Hill Rd, Alta, WY 83414
Hiking Trails
- Paintbrush Divide to Cascade Canyon: Located near Moran, Wyoming
- Teton Crest Trail: Near Teton Village
- Bradley Lake Loop: Near Moose, WY
Campgrounds
- Jackson Hole Campground: 2780 Moose Wilson Rd, Wilson, WY 83014
- Colter Bay Campground: 100 Colter Bay Campground Rd, Moran, WY 83013
- Curtis Canyon Campground: Forest Rd 30443, Jackson, WY 83001
Hidden Gems
You won’t be disappointed with these off-the-beaten-path ideas in Jackson Hole:
- Grab a breakfast burrito at D.O.G.
- Hike the challenging Josie’s Ridge
- Take a plunge at Phelps Lake Jumping Rock
Rec Van is here to make this dream vacation a reality. By choosing any of our new or used campervans, you can be one step closer to experiencing the majesty of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. View our available vans today, and give us a call with any questions!
