The Benson Preferred Guide
Jackson Hole in the Summer
Wyoming, United States
The Benson Preferred Guide to Jackson Hole, Wyoming (Summer)
Why Should You Visit Jackson Hole in the Summer?
Jackson Hole feels like stepping into an old western adventure movie that's been upgraded with luxury resorts, incredible restaurants, and some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in North America.
We've fallen in love with Jackson Hole because it somehow manages to satisfy our two favorite kinds of vacations. We can spend an adrenaline-filled day charging through whitewater rapids, hiking to alpine lakes, or exploring Yellowstone National Park and then spend the evening soaking in the hot tub at the Four Seasons while watching the sun disappear behind the Tetons.
Some destinations are great for relaxing. Others are great for adventure. Jackson Hole is one of the few places we've found that does both exceptionally well.
It's become one of our favorite summer escapes, and we discover something new to love every time we go back.
Who Is Jackson Hole Perfect For?
Jackson Hole is perfect for:
- Couples who love outdoor adventures and luxury accommodations.
- Families with adventurous children and teenagers.
- National park enthusiasts.
- Whitewater rafting lovers.
- Wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.
- Travelers who appreciate exceptional food and western charm.
- Anyone looking to experience the American West at its finest.
If your ideal vacation includes mountain views, wildlife sightings, and ending the day in a hot tub with sore legs and a big smile on your face, Jackson Hole is probably for you.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole in the Summer?
Some of our favorite summer experiences include:
- Whitewater rafting on the Snake River.
- Riding the Aerial Tram at Teton Village.
- Exploring Grand Teton National Park.
- Spending several days in Yellowstone National Park.
- Kayaking Jenny Lake.
- Wildlife spotting in Lamar Valley.
- Visiting Lower Falls in Yellowstone.
- Shopping and exploring the art galleries in downtown Jackson.
- Enjoying dinner and a western show at the Bar T Chuckwagon.
- Trying new restaurants throughout Jackson Hole.
- Relaxing at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole.
Jackson Hole rewards travelers who leave a little extra room in their itinerary. It's the kind of place where stopping to watch a moose grazing beside the road can become one of the highlights of your trip.
What Is Jackson Hole's Signature Summer Experience?
Whitewater rafting. Not even a close second.
If I could only recommend one summer experience in Jackson Hole, this would be it.
Our favorite outfitter is Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips. We've been rafting the Snake River for years, and it never gets old.
Talk with your guide about the level of adventure you're looking for. There are scenic float trips that are perfect for families with younger children, and then there are stretches of river that will leave you laughing, screaming, and completely soaked.
There's nothing quite like paddling your way through Lunch Counter and watching the massive waves crash over the front of the raft. Riding the Big Kahuna is one of those experiences that immediately becomes part of your family stories for years to come.
One of my favorite memories is watching two of my boys paddle through those rapids with me. Diana may have us all beat, though. She's run the entire course in a three-man raft, which is every bit as crazy and exhilarating as it sounds.
For the bigger rapids, I'd recommend children be at least twelve years old. Younger children can still have a wonderful experience on the calmer stretches of the river.
Where Should You Stay in Jackson Hole?
The Four Seasons Jackson Hole is one of our Benson Preferred Properties and has become our favorite place to stay during both the summer and winter.
After a long day hiking, rafting, or exploring the national parks, there's something pretty magical about climbing into the hot tub and simply soaking in the mountain views.
Located in Teton Village, it's perfectly positioned for many of our favorite activities while providing the luxury and relaxation that make Jackson Hole feel like a true vacation.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Jackson Hole in the Summer?
- Peak Season: July and August offer the warmest temperatures and access to virtually every summer activity.
- Shoulder Season: June and early September provide wonderful weather with fewer crowds.
- Best For:
- Whitewater rafting: June through August
- Yellowstone National Park: June through September
- Hiking: June through September
- Wildlife viewing: Summer and early fall
- Kayaking Jenny Lake: Summer
- Families: June through August
Insider's Secret
Don't try to "do Yellowstone" in a single day.
Yellowstone deserves at least two or three days if you have the time. Every time we've tried to squeeze too much into a day, we've regretted it.
Take your time. Watch Old Faithful erupt. Walk the boardwalks through the geothermal areas. Visit Lower Falls and spend time simply taking it all in. Fish Yellowstone Lake, Lewis Lake, or Trout Lake if that's your thing.
Our favorite wildlife viewing has been in Lamar Valley, where we've seen massive bison and bears roaming the landscape. We still haven't seen wolves there, but that's part of what keeps us coming back.
Jackson Hole isn't a destination that should be rushed.
What Is a Great 5-7 Night Itinerary for Jackson Hole?
- Day 1: Arrive and enjoy the Four Seasons.
- Day 2: Whitewater rafting on the Snake River.
- Day 3: Explore Grand Teton National Park and kayak Jenny Lake.
- Day 4: Yellowstone National Park.
- Day 5: Yellowstone National Park and Lower Falls.
- Day 6: Ride the Aerial Tram, shop downtown Jackson, and enjoy the Bar T Chuckwagon experience.
- Day 7: Relax at the resort before heading home.
Founder Favorite
This one's easy.
If I only had one day in Jackson Hole, I'd spend it whitewater rafting.
I've done a lot of adventurous things throughout my life, but there's something about paddling through Lunch Counter with your family that's hard to beat. Everyone is laughing, completely soaked, and wondering when they can do it again before you've even made it back to shore.
That's a pretty great day in my book.
Member Tip
Plan at least one completely unscheduled afternoon during your trip.
Some of our favorite Jackson Hole memories have come from slowing down, relaxing at the resort, wandering through town, or stopping unexpectedly when wildlife appears beside the road.
Jackson Hole is too beautiful to rush through.
Also, if possible, plan busier activities like whitewater rafting and national park excursions during the middle of the week to avoid larger crowds.
Our Favorite Experiences
There are still things we haven't done in Jackson Hole. We're still trying to catch our first Arctic grayling at Grebe Lake. We still haven't seen wolves in Yellowstone. Granite Hot Springs is still on our list for a future trip.
That's one of the reasons we love coming back.
Jackson Hole isn't a destination we've checked off our travel list. It's become one of those places we look forward to returning to year after year because there's always another adventure waiting for us.
Whether we're hiking through Grand Teton National Park, watching a massive bull moose stand up just a little too close for comfort, or sharing a laugh after getting completely drenched in the Snake River, Jackson Hole has become one of our favorite places to make memories together.
We have a feeling you'll understand why the moment you arrive.
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