There’s plenty to keep you busy in the town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. However, most visitors use the valley as a home base to explore the staggeringly wild and beautiful wider area. With two of America’s most famous national parks within 60 miles (97 km) of Jackson Hole, the history of the American West feels omnipresent in the region. This article outlines four unforgettable day trips that showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable area.
1. Follow the Bison to Mormon Row and Lower Slide Lake
Travel time: 20 minutes by car (15 miles)
Follow the Gros Ventre River northeast from Jackson through the lush Antelope Flats to reach Lower Slide Lake in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. A short detour north takes you to Mormon Row, a historic site within the bounds of Grand Teton National Park that was once the settlement of Grovont. Today, picturesque barns stand out against the dramatic mountain backdrop, making them a favorite among photographers. More than 700 bison call this valley home, offering ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
Another 30 minutes in the car takes you to Lower Slide Lake, where a boat ramp provides easy access for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and rowboats. The lake is stocked with trout, and visiting in the fall allows you to see the cottonwoods and aspens lining the shore in vibrant gold. A short interpretive trail explains local geology, particularly the massive landslide that formed the lake. Continue past the lake to discover beautiful campgrounds and numerous trailheads leading into the expansive Bridger-Teton National Forest.
2. Experience Nature at Yellowstone National Park
Travel time: 75 minutes by car to South Entrance (57 miles)
Rainbow-hued mineral springs, boiling mud pots, spouting geysers, and spitting fumaroles define Yellowstone National Park. These geothermal features captivated 19th-century explorers, leading them to advocate for the preservation of this unique landscape. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yellowstone is home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including the world-famous Old Faithful, which erupts every one to two hours, shooting water as high as 180 ft (55 m) into the air.
While mud pots and geysers like Grand Prismatic Spring may steal the spotlight for photography enthusiasts, the park offers much more. Marvel at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the stunning travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, and the diverse wildlife including wolves, moose, and the iconic bison that often cross the roads.
3. Explore Grand Teton National Park
Travel time: 7 minutes by car (5 miles)
Grand Teton National Park, adjacent to Yellowstone, boasts spectacular views of the Teton peaks. Visitors are encouraged to take their time, stopping at various overlooks such as Albright View, Glacier View, and Snake River Overlook, each providing a unique perspective of the formidable peaks. A picnic at Colter Bay on Jackson Lake offers leisure time to absorb the natural beauty and observe fly fishers at Oxbow Bend.
For a memorable adventure, take a ferry across Jenny Lake and hike the one-mile trail to Hidden Lake and Inspiration Point. Alternatively, visitors can hike around the lake for a more immersive experience. Trails leading to String and Leigh Lakes provide peaceful settings, while the popular five-mile trek to Bradley and Taggart Lakes rewards hikers with picturesque reflections of the mountains.
4. Visit the Wild West Town of Cody
Travel time: 4 hours by car (177 miles)
Founded in 1896 by William F. Cody, known as “Buffalo Bill,” the town of Cody, Wyoming, immerses visitors in the spirit of the American West. Surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, Cody celebrates the lives of cowboys and mountain men. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West serves as a primary attraction, showcasing the life of this legendary showman and providing insights into frontier life. A highlight within the center is the Plains Indian Museum, featuring an impressive collection of artifacts and art created by Indigenous peoples.
A lively glimpse into frontier life can be experienced at Old Trail Town, a reconstructed collection of historic log buildings and artifacts, including hideouts used by infamous outlaws. Cody also embraces its title as the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” with the famous Cody Nite Rodeo running every night during the summer months. Visitors can explore Sheridan Avenue for old-timey saloons and shops offering handmade Western gear.
This article has been tailored to provide you with insights into the best day trips from Jackson Hole, emphasizing both natural wonders and cultural experiences. Enjoy your exploration!
