5 Questions: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Nestled near two of America’s most celebrated national parks — Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park – Jackson Hole serves as the ideal entry point to these renowned mountain escapes.

The region draws adventure travelers and nature lovers from around the globe. What is it that draws them? What do you need to know when visiting Jackson Hole?

We asked a local expert from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Here’s what he had to say.

What is the difference between Jackson / Jackson Hole and Jackson / Teton Village?

The town of Jackson is located in the wider Jackson Hole valley between Western Wyoming’s Teton Mountain Range and Gros Ventre Range.

Jackson is nestled in the southern end of the valley, while Teton Village and its Jackson Hole Mountain Resort are 12 miles northwest of Jackson.

 Is it better to visit Jackson Hole during the winter or summer?

Jackson Hole is widely known as the best skiing and snowboarding destination in the winter, but we have more visitors during the summer.

Travelers often come to Jackson Hole during the warmer months to explore Grand Teton and Yellowstone. No matter the time of year, there is always an adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

What are some activities guests would be surprised are offered in Jackson Hole?

While Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village has been rated the “number one skiing destination in the country” by Forbes, there is so much more than skiing or snowboarding here.

I’m lucky our hotels are located at the base of the resort, which offers some of the coolest activities in Jackson Hole, like riding the Aerial Tram and paragliding over the valley.

The rodeo comes to town every summer, too. During the winter, you can experience dog sledding or a classic sleigh ride. 

How can guests see wildlife in Jackson Hole?

Since we are so close to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, there are so many opportunities to see native wildlife, including moose, bison, elk, grizzly and black bears, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and trumpeter swans.

Even driving from Jackson to Teton Village, you can see moose and elk along the road. We work with Kurt Johnson with Wild Things of Wyoming, who can lead guests to the best views and wildlife spotting areas.

Is it true Jackson Hole is only for pro skiers?

Jackson Hole and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort welcome all levels from novice to expert. The resort boasts one of the highest vertical drops in North America with more than 4,000 vertical feet of varied terrain, which is perfect for expert skiers and snowboarders.

If you have never been on a pair of skis or a board before or need to brush up on your skills, Jackson Hole Mountain resort offers adult and children’s lessons, plus private lessons and multi-day camps.

Beginners can learn to ski or snowboard on the bunny slopes of the best ski resort in the country.

Expert Author Bio: Tyler Barker is the Area General Manager of Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, Tyler Barker leads the overall brand growth strategy for both properties while overseeing all hotel operations with a core focus on service and the guest experience. Barker has lived in Jackson Hole since 2001. Prior to his promotion to area general manager, he served as general manager for Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa for over eight years.