Why Jackson Hole is magical in the summertime (plus a packing list!)

We’ve traveled to many incredible places around the world, but Jackson Hole in the summertime remains one of our absolute favorites. Just a scenic four-hour drive from Salt Lake City, it’s well worth the trip. Whether you’re biking along the path with the majestic Tetons as your backdrop, hiking the stunning paths around Jenny Lake, or enjoying a lively dinner near the iconic town square, every moment feels unforgettable. The natural beauty here is simply unmatched.

Why Jackson Hole in the summertime?

Don’t get me wrong—we love a classic Jackson Hole ski trip in the winter. The snow-covered mountains and cozy après-ski spots are hard to beat. But summer here? It’s a whole different kind of magic. The skies are wide and blue, the temperatures are just right, and the days feel endless—in the best way. There’s so much to do, from biking scenic paths beneath the Tetons to hiking alpine trails, or just soaking in the sunshine with a cold drink in town.

And one of our favorite parts? The wildlife. Summer is when the animals really come out—you’ll often spot bison grazing in the distance, and if you’re lucky, a moose or two hanging out nearby. Whether you’re on a hike or just driving through the park, there’s always something wild to see.

Jackson Hole in the summer is pure mountain bliss—and we find ourselves falling in love with it all over again, every time we visit.

Outdoor Activities

1. Biking

One of our favorite ways to take in the stunning views of the Tetons is biking the paved path that runs from Moose Junction into Grand Teton National Park. It’s incredibly scenic—you’re literally riding alongside the mountain range the entire time.

We’ve done this ride with a bike trailer for infants, little kids pedaling on their own (and yes, even a scooter or two has made an appearance!). When someone in our group needed a little help, we rented an e-bike so they could enjoy the ride without the extra effort. It’s one of those activities that works for everyone—and the views are unbeatable.

One of our favorite mid-ride stops? Popping into the little store at Jenny Lake Visitors Center. Whether you’re craving a snack, a sweet treat, or want to grab a small souvenir, it’s the perfect excuse to take a break and soak in the views.

And the best part—bike rentals are super easy! Dornan’s (right near the Moose entrance) is our go-to. No bike trailer or car rack needed—you can hop on your bike right there and ride the scenic path all the way to Jenny Lake Visitors Center. Easy, beautiful, and fun for all ages!

We’ve also rented bikes from Hoback Sports in town—they usually have slightly better pricing if you have a bike rack and can transport the bikes yourself. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save a little and already have the gear to haul them.

Plus, Hoback is our go-to for anything bike-related. Whether you need a quick tune-up, a repair, or just forgot a helmet or water bottle, their team is super helpful and well-stocked with all the cycling gear and accessories you could need.

2. Hiking

This might just be my absolute favorite thing to do in Jackson Hole during the summer. There’s something so grounding about being surrounded by this kind of natural beauty—it’s the perfect escape from the constant buzz of everyday life.

There are so many hikes to choose from, with options for all ages, energy levels, and time frames. One of our favorites is the Jenny Lake Loop—a 7.1-mile trail that wraps around the lake with stunning views at every turn. We’ve done it with our little kids before, but if you’re with someone who isn’t up for the full loop, there’s an easy workaround: take the boat shuttle across the lake to shorten the hike.

A lot of people like to take the boat over, hike the short trail to Hidden Falls (½ mile each way) or up to Inspiration Point (1 mile each way), and then take the boat back. There’s no wrong way to do it—the flexibility is what makes this area so special. You really can tailor the experience to fit your group, and no matter how far you go, the views will take your breath away.

One of our favorite hikes is the Taggart Lake Trail. We may or may not have jumped in the lake with the kids a couple of times—it wasn’t exactly warm, but it definitely turned into a core memory. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can extend the hike by looping in Bradley Lake for even more stunning views.

Tips: Start early to beat crowds, bring bear spray, and check trail conditions. Let me know if you have questions about any other hikes – there’s a good chance we’ve done them!

3. Other Activities

• River raft on Lunch Counter: we liked Lewis & Clark
• Take an easier float down the Snake River
• Horseback Riding: we’ve used Swift Creek Outfitters a couple times and we will for sure use them again. They have so many horses and they are really good at matching up each rider with the perfect horse.
• Driving around looking for animals – this is our kids favorite thing to do!
• Ropes Course at Teton at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

And I’m sure there’s a million more – golfing, fishing, kayaking, alpine slide, etc!

Where to Eat:

Breakfast/Brunch:

• Persephone Bakery – This charming little spot just off the Town Square is a must. Whether you’re grabbing a pastry and coffee to go or enjoying a sit-down breakfast on the patio, the vibes here are unbeatable. Their breakfast sandwiches, croissants, and espresso drinks are always on point — and yes, it’s as cute as it looks on Instagram.
• The Bunnery – There’s usually a line out the door — and for good reason. The Bunnery serves up hearty, home-cooked breakfasts that hit the spot after a morning adventure (or a late night). Think fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, and baked goods made in-house.

Lunch:

• Dornan’s Pizza & Pasta: Honestly, this is where we end up more often than not for lunch. It’s super kid-friendly — our crew loves the spaghetti, meatballs, and buttered noodles — while the adults go for the wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads. Pro tip: grab a table on the patio for unbeatable views of the Tetons.
• Dornan’s Grocery and Deli: Perfect for a quick and tasty stop before heading into the park. Their sandwiches are made fresh and ideal for a picnic — just remember to pack out all your trash! I never skip grabbing one of their freshly baked peanut butter cookies when I stop in.

Dinner:

• Hand Fire Pizza: Set inside Jackson’s old-school movie theater, this place has loads of character — and seriously good pizza. The Caprese pizza is my go-to, but everything we’ve tried has been great. It’s casual, cozy, and family-friendly with a fun atmosphere.
• Hatch Taqueria & Tequilas: For elevated Mexican food with a modern twist, Hatch is the move. It’s stylish but still laid-back, with a menu full of fresh, flavorful dishes and an impressive tequila selection. Great spot for date night or a nice dinner out.
• Liberty Burger: A casual burger joint with options for everyone — classic beef, chicken, turkey, and even bison burgers. Fast, friendly, and filling — great for a low-key meal that still hits the spot.
• Merry Piglets: Super casual and fun, this is a solid option for Mexican food — especially with a bigger group. The vibe is relaxed, the margaritas are cold, and the chips and salsa don’t disappoint.

Around Town – Things to Do in Downtown Jackson

No trip to Jackson is complete without spending time exploring the town itself. Here are some of our favorite things to do when we’re not on the trails or in the parks:

Snap a photo under the antler arches

This is a Jackson classic! Each corner of the Town Square has one of these massive arches made entirely of elk antlers — it’s basically a rite of passage to get your photo here.

Browse the galleries

Jackson has an impressive art scene, especially if you love Western or wildlife art. Pop into a few galleries around the square — even just window-shopping is fun.

Explore Western shops

From custom cowboy boots to felt hats and belt buckles, there are so many cool shops where you can find authentic Western gear. Even if you’re not looking to go full Yellowstone-core, it’s fun to try things on!

Catch the Jackson Hole Rodeo

If you’re in town during rodeo season (usually summer), don’t miss this. It’s entertaining for all ages and gives you a real taste of Wyoming culture.

Favorite Shops Around Town

Lee’s Tees

Much more than just t-shirts — tucked inside is a cute boutique section with unique jewelry, home décor, stickers, and great gift items. The downstairs toy store is a kid magnet… I always have to drag mine out!

Altitude

One of my go-to spots for designer pieces and unique fashion finds. Bonus: there’s usually a great sale section upstairs that’s worth checking out.

Terra

A new favorite we discovered on our last trip. The vibe is upscale and curated, with beautiful clothing, perfumes, and beauty products. Definitely more of a splurge, but fun for browsing or treating yourself.

And whatever you do….Don’t skip Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream

You definitely need to stop at Moo’s while you’re in town. It’s a local favorite, known for its organic ingredients and unique flavors — everything from huckleberry to classic chocolate. There’s usually a line, but it moves fast and is totally worth it. A perfect treat after a day of exploring!

Tips for Travelers:

• Best time to visit is June–September: great weather, all the trails open, and lots of activities going on. But if you don’t mind cooler temps and want to avoid the crowds, May and October are fantastic.
• Where to stay: Our top pick is renting a condo in the neighborhoods near the airport. You get the best of both worlds — a short drive to both Grand Teton National Park and downtown Jackson.
  If you want to be close to shops and restaurants, staying downtown is convenient and walkable, but it means a slightly longer drive to the park.
  Some folks love staying near Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, but for summer trips, we prefer being closer to the park. The resort area is the furthest away, so it’s our least favorite spot during the warmer months.
• Layer up! Mountain weather changes fast — mornings and evenings can be chilly, but daytime temperatures often warm up quite a bit. Having layers means you can stay comfortable no matter the conditions.
• Getting there: Jackson Hole is easy to reach. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Salt Lake City, or you can fly directly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is super convenient.

Packing List:

As promised, here’s a packing list tailored for a casual family trip focused on hiking and biking. If you’re visiting in the peak of summer and happen to hit a heat wave, you can probably skip the puffy jacket. But if you’re anything like me and tend to get chilly, I’d always rather have too many layers than not enough!

Where to Stay:

Ultimate Family Setup: Mountain Modern Motel
This is our top pick when traveling with kids! The rooms are spacious, the bunk beds are a huge hit, and there’s plenty of room to spread out. It’s a bit of a longer walk to the town square, but the rates are usually better than the hotels right downtown.

Splurge-Worthy: The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection
If you’re traveling without kids and want a luxury stay, this is the spot. Beautifully designed, centrally located, and perfect for couples or adults-only trips. Personally, we think it’s better suited for a quiet, kid-free getaway.

Solid Mid-Range Option: Springhill Suites by Marriott
Great location close to downtown, clean and comfortable, and works well for both families and adults. A reliable, well-priced option with everything you need.

For Longer Stays or Bigger Groups: Outpost JH
We also love using Outpost JH for renting condos or houses—perfect for longer stays, bigger families, or if you want a kitchen and more of a home base during your trip.

Inside the Park: Jackson Lake Lodge
If you want to be surrounded by the beauty of Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Lake Lodge is a favorite. While there’s a main hotel, we especially love staying in the cottages—they offer a more rustic, cozy feel. They’re not fancy, but they’re comfortable, charming, and the location is unbeatable for early morning wildlife spotting, evening strolls, and quick access to nearby hikes. It’s the kind of place that lets you truly slow down and soak in the park.

I’d love to hear your recommendations! Please be sure to tell me what other things you love to do in Jackson Hole. Any favorite hikes or restaurants I should know about? And I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have! Let’s swap tips and keep the adventure going! 🌲✨