Summer Time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and the Grand Tetons

Nestled at the feet of the Grand Tetons, Jackson-Hole, WY is a destination all year round. This beautiful town is only overshadowed by the majesty of nature surrounding it, and you are emersed into that beauty from before your aero plane lands at Jackson-Hole airport. Summer time in Jackson-Hole, WY is as grand as the winter wonderland covered in snow.

Gliding into the runway with the Tetons all around you, it is hard not to get excited about your vacation. Then you walk into the cutest airport of them all. There is no denying that you have stepped into the west with the wooden beams and paneling throughout the airport.

First stop – National Museum of Wildlife Art

Heading south from the Jackson-Hole airport and away from the Grand Teton National Park you will come across the National Museum of Wildlife Art. The Museum holds the largest collection of work by Rungius in the United States and he plays a key part in Museum exhibits and programs.

The National Museum of Wildlife Art, founded in 1987. This Jackson Hole museum holds more than 5,000 artworks representing wild animals from around the world. Featuring work by prominent artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Robert Kuhn, John James Audubon, and Carl Rungius, the Museum’s unsurpassed permanent collection chronicles much of the history of wildlife in art.

Hiking the Grand Tetons

Early in the morning, with a cooler start than I am used to in Florida, we set out for our hike of Phelps Lake. The Grand Tetons within the Grand Teton National Park never disappoint as you peek over to see the snow capped mountains in early summer. We got to hike the Phelps Lake Loop trying to miss the crowds at Jenny Lake.

This moderate loop trail provides access to Phelps Lake as well as views into Death Canyon and the southern end of the Teton Range. I could have sat and stared into the majesty of the Grand Tetons for hours.

Start the trail from the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and follow the trail as it loops Phelps Lake.

Riding the rapids of Snake River

Visiting Jackson-Hole, WY and the surrounding area in the beginning of June was such a wonderful time of the year. Is was lovely and warm in the sun, and cool in the shade of the pine trees as you hike the trails. 

Another great reason to visit during this time of the year is that the rivers are full and running quickly. As the snow melts in the sun rays, it fills the rivers with exciting times. I may have once upon a time chosen the daring white river rafting options available, but this time chose a Snake River Float Trip.

Professional, experienced river trip guides will navigate you through the twists and turns of the Snake River Canyon while pointing out the flora, fauna, geology, and history that make this area so unique. Whether you bring your family or come with friends, we can assure you that Snake River rafting will be the highlight of your trip to Jackson Hole!

Evening adventures with the Rodeo

Your Jackson Hole vacation would not be complete without experiencing the legendary Jackson Hole Rodeo. During the summer time you can attend the fun rodeo evenings on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

In 1890, Sylvester Wilson brought the first group of settlers over Teton Pass into what is now Jackson Hole. He came with his family to raise cattle on the fertile grass, which grew abundantly in the valley. 120 years and six generations later, the pioneer spirit lives on through the Wilson family who continue the western heritage and traditions of the rodeo. They invite you to enjoy it with them.

New Sheep Bridge Trailhead

Just a short, 13-minute drive from Downtown Driggs, Sheep Bridge Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in the valley. There are unbeatable views of the Tetons and a breathtaking crossing over Teton Creek. The creek was particularly spectacular in early June with the mountain water run-off making it more like raging river — the sound was deafening!

But all this beauty remains accessible — Sheep Bridge Trail is a perfect hike for people of all ages, as well as leashed pets. The out-and-back trail is a breezy 4.4 miles with 225′ of elevation gain. It makes for a beautiful walk — or bike — through the woods.

We were fortunate to cross paths with a Mom Black bear and her 2 cubs. staying calm and out of their way we were able to see and experience the wonder of nature.

Down Town Jackson-Hole

Jackson offers a wide range of attractions, including magnificent landscapes, exciting rodeos, and fascinating wildlife encounters. Heading to down town Jackson-Hole opens you to world class galleries and shopping. Whether you are looking for a new “bedazzled’ hat, jewelry or some novelty items, you can find it all. We spent the day walking the down town and shopping. Thankfully we got to sit in the shade of the Jackson Hole Town Square.

The Town Square is the core of both the town and the community. The square is marked by four magnificent elk antler arches and crisscrossed by an Old West boardwalk that culminates at the central sculpture of the square, a war memorial that includes a cowboy on a bucking horse.

Eating Square Ice-Cream

In my opinion, no vacation would be complete without at least 1 trip to an ice cream store. Berry’s Ice Cream store matched my desire to try something different while mixed with something sweet. Never before had I had a square ice cream scoop and since I was driving by, it was the perfect excuse.

On one of our hikes we were greeted by some locals that had retired to the area. They had been visiting Wyoming for 35 years before eventually retiring to just outside Jackson, WY. As we walked the train with their golden retriever, I could easily see myself living a life outdoors with all this beauty around me!

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