The long summer days and wide open spaces of Wyoming provide the perfect backdrop for a slow-traveling cat to think deep thoughts. With nothing but time and sky, it’s the ideal place to “paws” and reflect. As a particularly well-traveled cat, one of the things I love most about visiting Jackson, Wyoming, in the summertime is the mix of refined elegance in town juxtaposed against the surrounding rugged outdoors. There is no better place for a cultured feline to stop and smell the wildflowers, while also dining on artisanal tuna tartare.
Are you planning a trip to Jackson, Wyoming, during the summertime? Check out these amazing things to do that will guarantee a purrfect Wyoming experience, all while avoiding the crowds at the national parks.
Hang Out in Grand Teton Village
Best known as a winter ski resort, Teton Village is a great place to explore during the summertime. With plenty of options for relaxing or breaking a sweat, you can either pair a stop here with a more strenuous outdoor activity or make it an adventure unto itself.
The main attraction at Teton Village is undoubtedly the Bridger Gondola. Over the course of a 12-minute ride, you’ll experience stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains while you effortlessly float up 2700 feet of elevation. Once you arrive at the top, there are plenty of hiking trails, a few dining options, and access to Via Ferrata, a well-known, beginner-friendly outdoor rock climbing space. Gondola tickets are a little pricey ($58 a piece if you purchase them online), so make sure to plan ahead so you can make the most of your journey.
Aside from the gondola, Teton Village has a lot to offer. If you are traveling with kids, make sure to check out the climbing wall, bungee trampoline, and mountain biking at the Jackson Hole Bike Park.
Both adults and children will love the variety of dining options, each offering incredible views, as well as the free summer concert series, which takes place on Sunday evenings.
Offering a laid-back resort vibe, a trip to Teton Village is a great way to get away from the crowds and find some downtime in between your outdoor adventures.
Hike Outside of the Parks
Want a break from the lines and overcrowded parking lots at the Grand Tetons? You are in luck! There are some great trail systems located nearby, offering incredible views and wildlife. Even during the high season, these hikes are easily accessible and offer a sense of solitude at the base of the Rockies.
Just west of Wilson, WY, on Highway 22, you’ll find a cluster of trails leading to a small body of water called Crater Lake. Filled with butterflies, wildflowers, and occasional views of distant mountain tops, this area is great for a quiet retreat into the mountains. I started my hike at the trailhead for the Crater & History Trails. I took the Crater trail up to the lake and then followed the History trail back down to the parking lot.
Another great trail system to check out is located on the southwestern side of Jackson, WY. Navigate to Russ Garaman Park for the best entry point and then take any trail up the ridge to explore. I started on Josie’s Ridge trail and followed this loop from AllTrails. Honestly, though, the trails are very well marked with maps at every intersection, so you could also easily navigate on the fly. Aside from stunning wildflowers, this trail system features occasional views of Jackson and the surrounding valley.
Explore the Town of Jackson
Staying local and appreciating the unique town of Jackson is another great way to spend a morning or afternoon. Consider pairing a little local exploration with one of the hikes from above. Hanging out in Jackson is a nice way to relax your feet while staying immersed in the local culture.
Downtown Jackson is best known for its unique art galleries, filled with western-themed paintings, photography, and sculptures. I recommend parking near the town square and then exploring from there. Some of the better-known galleries include Astoria Fine Art, Mountain Trails Gallery, and Brookover Gallery.
Aside from daydreaming about owning original art, you can browse the nearby clothing and gift stores in search of the perfect country western souvenir for you or your loved ones. From boots to handmade bags, don’t miss a chance to bring home a little reminder of your amazing vacation.
And, finally, no trip to Jackson is complete without an ice cream cone from Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, their award-winning wild huckleberry ice cream cone will always remain a fan favorite.
Ride a Bike
If your feet are tired of hiking, but you still have energy to explore, renting a bicycle is a great way to appreciate the area surrounding Jackson. I did a half-day rental from Grand Teton Sports, located in Grand Teton Village. With the bike path located right next to the shop, you can either ride north into Grand Teton Park or south to explore the area around Wilson.
I rode south to Wilson and enjoyed a huckleberry bagel at a charming, riverside shop called Pearl Street Bagel, before heading back.
Go to the Grand View Spa
Another great activity to balance out the inherently active nature of vacationing in Wyoming is a stop at Grand View Spa. Located in the famous Snow King Resort, this spa overlooks the town of Jackson, giving it just enough distance to feel like a tranquil escape.
Aside from offering a diverse menu of services, they also offer incredible space for relaxation. With an indoor hottub, an outdoor hottub with sun deck, a steam room, and a shower with 5(!) nozzles, you could easily skip the spa services altogether, and still have a lovely afternoon.
If you are traveling with kids or simply enjoy a little bit of adrenaline yourself, you can also check out the Alpine Slide, located right next to the spa. This half-mile track weaves around Snow King Mountain, offering incredible views of Jackson and the surrounding mountains. Covering over 350 feet of vertical distance, riders can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.
Other Popular Stops
While I was in Jackson Hole for an entire week, I still had stops on my list that I was not able to get to. I have heard great things about these destinations, but can only recommend them through secondhand knowledge.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is a great place to dive into the artistic background of Jackson, Wyoming.
The National Elk Refuge is listed as a popular stop but it’s highly recommended that you visit early or late in the day to actually see the elk, especially if you are there during the peak summer heat.
The Silver Dollar Bar, located in the Wort Hotel in downtown Jackson, offers live music nearly every night of the week in summertime. I’ve been told it’s a lively scene with lots of dancing from locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion on Things to Do Outside of Grand Teton National Park
A summertime vacation in the Rocky Mountains is certainly a trip that you’ll never forget. Mixing some local activities in with your time in the park is a great way to truly appreciate the culture of Wyoming.
While hiking and driving in the park is definitely worth the effort, getting away from the crowds and exploring local trails, shops, galleries, cafes, and bars will leave you with a well-rounded experience.
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Slow Traveling Cat 