Jackson
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Jackson

Jackson, Wyoming, United States

Jackson, Wyoming is a charming town nestled in the heart of the stunning Teton Range, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Known for its picturesque landscap…

#Jackson#Wyoming#United States#Mountain town#Outdoor recreation
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jackson.

Top Hotels in Jackson

Top Flights to Jackson

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Jackson.

Tours

Grand Teton National Park Visit

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Grand Teton National Park, with picturesque views, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Historic Downtown Jackson

Stroll through Jackson's historic downtown with its quaint shops, galleries, and eateries.

National Elk Refuge

Visit the National Elk Refuge to see one of the largest elk herds during winter.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

Explore artworks dedicated to wildlife in a striking cliffside architectural setting.

Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum

Discover local history and culture through exhibits at the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum.

Shopping

Teton Village

A vibrant village offering a variety of outdoor activities, dining options, and shops.

Outdoor

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, or mountain biking in the summer.

Snow King Mountain

Enjoy year-round activities including skiing, hiking, and the thrilling Cowboy Coaster.

Antelope Flats

Explore a scenic drive with beautiful views and an opportunity to spot wildlife and ancient homesteads.

Jackson Hole Rodeo

Experience the thrill of traditional rodeo events such as bull riding and barrel racing.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jackson.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Jackson, Wyoming, is about 10,900.
Languages
English, French, Spanish
Average weather
Jackson
Jan
cold
9°-3°
Feb
cold
12°-1°
Mar
cloud
16°2°
Apr
rain
21°7°
May
rain
26°12°
Jun
sun
31°17°
Jul
hot
34°20°
Aug
hot
33°19°
Sep
clear
29°15°
Oct
cloud
23°9°
Nov
rain
16°3°
Dec
cold
11°-1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jackson.

What people love

Jackson, located in Jackson, Wyoming, United States, is a popular destination known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here are some pros of traveling to Jackson:

  1. Grand Teton National Park: Jackson is located near the entrance to Grand Teton National Park, offering visitors access to breathtaking mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.

  2. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Jackson is also home to the renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, a top destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The resort boasts challenging terrain, stunning views, and a vibrant apres-ski scene.

  3. Western Charm: Jackson has a charming Western atmosphere with its wooden boardwalks, cowboy bars, and art galleries showcasing Western art. Visitors can experience the cowboy culture through rodeos, horseback riding, and western-style dining.

  4. Gateway to Yellowstone: Jackson serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world. Visitors can easily access Yellowstone's geothermal features, wildlife, and iconic attractions like Old Faithful geyser.

  5. Outdoor Recreation: In addition to national parks, Jackson offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and hot air ballooning. The area's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for these adventures.

Overall, traveling to Jackson, Wyoming, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, Western charm, and access to iconic national parks. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the American West.

Enjoy your trip to Jackson!

What to know

Traveling to Jackson, Wyoming, located in the United States, certainly has its pros such as stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a charming western town atmosphere. However, there are also some potential cons to consider when visiting Jackson:

  1. High Cost of Living: Jackson is known for being an expensive place to live and visit. Accommodation, dining, and activities can be pricey, which may put a strain on your travel budget.

  2. Crowds and Traffic: Jackson is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter. This can lead to crowded streets, long lines at attractions, and heavy traffic in and around the town.

  3. Weather Challenges: Jackson experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, which can impact travel plans and outdoor activities. Winter driving conditions can be challenging, and flight delays are not uncommon during snowstorms.

  4. Limited Public Transportation: Jackson is a small town with limited public transportation options. Renting a car is often necessary to explore the surrounding areas, which can add to the overall cost of your trip.

  5. Environmental Impact: The influx of tourists to Jackson can have a negative impact on the environment, particularly in sensitive natural areas like Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. It's important to practice responsible tourism and minimize your ecological footprint while visiting.

  6. Altitude Sickness: Jackson sits at a high elevation of over 6,000 feet above sea level. Some visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, especially if they are not acclimated to high altitudes.

Overall, while Jackson, Wyoming, offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor adventures, it's important to be mindful of these potential cons when planning your trip.

Jackson, Wyoming, is a town rich in history and culture, located in the Jackson Hole valley of Teton County. Here is a detailed history of Jackson, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Indigenous Peoples: Before European-American settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes including the Shoshone, Crow, Blackfoot, Bannock, and Gros Ventre. These tribes used the valley primarily as a hunting ground.

19th Century

  • Explorers and Fur Trappers: The first European-American to enter the area was likely John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, in the early 1800s. Colter's reports of the region's geothermal activity in Yellowstone prompted further exploration.
  • Naming of Jackson Hole: The valley was named after David Edward Jackson, a mountain man and fur trapper who worked in the region in the 1820s. The term “hole” was used by trappers to describe a large mountain valley.

Settlement and Development

  • Founding of Jackson: The town of Jackson was officially founded in 1894. It was named after the valley, which was named for David E. Jackson.
  • Early Economy: Initially, the economy of Jackson was based on ranching and farming, with settlers attracted by the fertile lands and abundant wildlife.

20th Century

  • Incorporation: Jackson was incorporated as a town in 1914. It has since served as the county seat for Teton County.
  • Tourism and Conservation: The establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872 and Grand Teton National Park in 1929 bolstered tourism. Conservation efforts have been significant in the region, led by figures such as John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who played a crucial role in expanding Grand Teton National Park.
  • Skiing and Outdoor Recreation: The development of ski resorts, particularly the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the 1960s, transformed Jackson into a major hub for winter sports.

Significant Events

  • Teton County Library: The opening of the Teton County Library in 1938 marked an important cultural development for the town.
  • Elk Refuge: The establishment of the National Elk Refuge in 1912, north of Jackson, was a critical conservation effort to protect the large elk population that winters in the area.

Historical Figures

  • Margaret Simpson: One of the first women to serve as a mayor in Wyoming, she helped guide the town through the Great Depression.
  • Olaus and Mardy Murie: Noted conservationists who lived in the area and advocated for the protection of wilderness lands.

Important Landmarks

  • Town Square: Known for its distinctive elk antler arches, the Town Square is a central gathering place in Jackson.
  • The Wort Hotel: Opened in 1941, the hotel is a historic landmark that has hosted many notable visitors over the years.
  • Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: One of the premier ski destinations in the United States, attracting visitors from around the world.
  • National Museum of Wildlife Art: Overlooking the National Elk Refuge, this museum holds a significant collection of wildlife art.

Recent Developments

  • Growth and Tourism: The town has continued to grow, with tourism remaining a vital part of the local economy. Jackson has become known for its blend of Western traditions and modern amenities.

Jackson, Wyoming, continues to be a unique blend of rugged natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant modern culture. Its history is marked by a commitment to conservation and the preservation of its unique Western heritage.