Top Ten (Off-Slope) Jackson Hole Winter Activities
Besides the obvious and epic skiing and snowboarding available while surfing the stunning Teton mountains, there are tons of other things to do in Jackson Hole that can keep the adventure fresh or provide a well-earned respite. Winter in Jackson Hole is a magical time with views blanketed in fresh white snow and adventure beckoning from every corner. Learn more to take advantage of these Jackson Hole winter activities.
1. Explore Wildlife with EcoTours Adventure
This award-winning wildlife tour company offers adventures that span from ½‑day photo adventures to snowshoeing tours to 6‑day safaris learning to track wolves and getting an inside look at winter creatures in their natural habitat. One of the most exciting Jackson Hole winter activities, these tours come fully equipped with food, hot drinks, knowledgeable guides, and binoculars for spying on the natural splendor of Jackson Hole.
2. Warm Up at the Hot Springs
Treat overworked muscles to a dip in the steaming pools at Granite Hot Springs. One of the best things to do during winter in Jackson Hole is undoubtedly soaking in natural hot water surrounded in snow with cascading views of the Tetons glistening in the sun. About one hour southwest of Jackson (just 34 miles away), these sweet hot springs offers pools over 100 degrees, epic views, and an affordable family activity during winter in Jackson Hole. No overworked muscles yet? Go for a hike in the scenic surroundings in the Granite Springs area first then get rewarded with a relaxing float in winter paradise.
3. Go on a Snowmobiling Adventure
When else will there be a chance to fly through Jackson Hole’s backcountry, zooming into freshly powdered valleys, past towering trees, and weaving through nature’s finest? When it comes to Jackson Hole winter activities, snowmobiling is the one that will get hearts racing and provide views that will leave guests speechless. Be sure to book a ride with a knowledgeable guide that can guide the way in (and out) of the scenic Jackson Hole backcountry.
4. Experience Dog Sledding
Wonder no more about what it’s like to yell “mush!” and have a team of fluffy Alaskan racing dogs pull the sled through the natural beauty of winter in Jackson Hole. This well-trained crew (mushers and dogs alike) gives guests an authentic experience that will offer a taste of the Iditarod life. Be sure to book early as reservations fill quickly.
5. Encounter Birds of Prey with the Teton Raptor Center
Discover the wonder of raptors in a historic and captivating setting. Visitors to the Teton Raptor Center learn about the vital role raptors play in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, ongoing research projects, and the treatments provided in their clinic for injured, ill, and orphaned raptors and corvids. This program is perfect for bird enthusiasts of all ages but is best suited for children five and older.
Reservations are required for this unforgettable live-bird experience.
6. Sightsee by Snowshoe
With Hole Hiking Experience, guests receive what the name offers. With rave reviews, each and every snowshoeing guide is friendly, knowledgeable, and knows all the back roads. Go out for a couple hours or a half- or full-day excursion tracking animals in the snow and admiring the backcountry beauty of Jackson Hole. Tours are available in the aptly named Grand Teton National Park or in the scenic surrounding forest.
7. Snowtubing and the Epic Cowboy Coaster
For those looking to take part in something more traditional, yet still satisfying for adrenaline-junkies, there are plenty of snowtubing parks. Both the Snow King Ski Area and Grand Targhee Ski Resort come with lifts for easy towing to the top of the hill, providing fun without the climb. Make sure riders are 42 inches or taller before packing up all the gear. Looking for the scream factor? Don’t miss the Cowboy Coaster at Snow King; it is 456 feet of speedy, snowy twists and icy turns.
8. Sleigh Ride at the Elk Refuge
Go back in time, climb aboard an old-fashioned sleigh drawn by horses through the National Elk Refuge, and let the landscape take your breath away. Escape to this wild winter wonderland, a scene straight from a movie. This time-favored tradition is a family-friendly way to share the epic mountain backdrops, wildlife sightings, and photo ops, all without the hiking.
9. Explore the Arts and Culture
If the weather Jackson Hole is serving up isn’t ideal for outdoor activities, the local art scene has some surprisingly sophisticated places to explore. The Jackson Hole art scene is impressive and eclectic, from photography to the infamous Elk Antler Arches. For a unique take on nightlife, be sure to visit the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts. A more family-friendly Jackson Hole activity is the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which sits above the National Elk Refuge with a breathtaking view. The museum touts paintings and sculptures from a collection of American and European artists and educates visitors on the history of wildlife through art.
10. Relax with a Spa Day
Enough of the slopes? Hit up one of the inviting Jackson Hole spas to book a facial, massage, or even a yoga class. Because of the high-end clientele, the spas in the area all provide a luxurious and relaxing treatment and gain inspiration from the surrounding beauty of the area. There’s really nothing that says “the good life” like sitting in a sauna knowing that it’s snowing outside. When looking for things to do in Jackson Hole next winter, this is a peaceful, relaxing, and enjoyable option.