A mountain town known for its rich Western heritage, cowboy culture, world-renowned skiing, charming downtown, and proximity to national parks, Jackson Hole is one of the top U.S. travel destinations. The ski resort attracts millions of skiers annually, famous for its challenging terrain. With 50% of the mountain reserved for experts, veterans take on the iconic Rendezvous Bowl and test their skills on Corbet’s Couloir, one of the most difficult ski runs in the world.
While Jackson Hole is a paradise for expert skiers, it’s not just for hardcore enthusiasts. The other half of the resort caters to beginners and intermediate skiers, offering some of the softest and best snow in the country. Visitors can ride the iconic Aerial Tram, or “Big Red,” to the top of Rendezvous Mountain at 10,450 feet, where they can enjoy the stunning views of the Teton Range and savor homemade waffles at Corbet’s Cabin.
Even if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your main driver for visiting, Jackson Hole has something for everyone. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, from wildlife safaris and ecotours to explore the region’s unique alpine wildlife, to snowmobiling tours. Visitors can also enjoy luxury accommodations, award-winning spas, gourmet dining, and family-friendly activities that create lasting memories. Our Mountain Travel Experts, with extensive experience planning trips to Jackson Hole, have shared their top picks for must-do activities during a three-day visit to this charming cowboy town.
WHERE TO STAY:
Hotel Terra
Located in Teton Village, just steps from the slopes, Hotel Terra blends cozy mountain warmth with elevated luxury, ensuring a royal experience for your mountain vacation. This award-winning luxury hotel has been recognized as a Top 20 Mountain West Resort and ranked #1 in Jackson Hole in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s also named among the Top 5 Hotels with the Best Amenities in Jackson Hole by Forbes.
Beyond the accolades, Hotel Terra offers a truly magical stay. The hotel features two renowned restaurants: Il Villaggio Osteria, an elegant Italian dining experience, and Bar Enoteca, a local favorite. After recent refurbishments, the hotel will debut a refreshed, modern look this winter, with updated rooms and suites. Guests will also enjoy luxury amenities such as personalized concierge services, a rooftop infinity pool and spa, and the convenience of delicious onsite dining. Plus, as a sustainable and eco-friendly hotel, Hotel Terra incorporates environmentally conscious building and operating processes, making it the perfect blend of luxury, sustainability, and convenience in the heart of the mountain village.
Teton Mountain Lodge
Just a short walk away, Teton Mountain Lodge offers luxury combined with renowned Western hospitality, making it an exceptional choice for your stay. Situated slopeside, and just a short stroll from the Aerial Tram, “Big Red,” this elegant mountain lodge is perfect for those looking to be surrounded by the slopes, shops, dining, and year-round family-friendly activities that Teton Village has to offer.
Teton Mountain Lodge combines the luxury of a high-end resort with the cozy warmth of a traditional mountain lodge, highlighted by its Western décor. Inside, you will find the Spur Restaurant and Bar, a favorite among visitors and locals alike, offering simple yet hearty meals to fuel your adventures on the slopes. The hotel’s luxurious amenities ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, including ski valet service, overnight ski storage and tuning, indoor and outdoor pools, five whirlpool tubs, a 15-person rooftop hot tub, and a luxury spa offering Thai and Indonesian-inspired treatments. Accommodations cater to intimate couple getaways and larger gatherings, with spaces for multigenerational families of up to 14 guests. This makes Teton Mountain Lodge an ideal destination for everyone to feel at home.
WHERE TO EAT:
Jackson Hole offers some of the best alpine dining experiences. Whether you’re after a local dive, a quick bite before hitting the slopes, or a fine dining experience, Jackson Hole delivers.
If you’re staying at Teton Mountain Lodge or Hotel Terra, don’t miss Spur Restaurant and Bar, one of the top-rated spots in Teton Village. For breakfast, fuel up with avocado toast or something unique like the mini tuna poke tacos, and order the Lodge Breakfast for a hearty, classic meal. Coffee enthusiasts will love their freshly brewed Zoka coffee, the perfect way to warm up before hitting the slopes!
For a nostalgic start to your day, head to Mangy Moose, a local favorite since 1967. If you’re in a rush to hit first chair, grab a quick breakfast burrito to go. Or if you want to ease into your morning, this iconic spot transports you back in time while serving their famous “green eggs and ham” — don’t worry, the spinach gives the eggs their green hue! The toast is locally made, and their signature Mangy Moose roasted organic coffee will wake you up after a long night of après-ski fun.
For fine Italian dining, Il Villaggio Osteria inside Hotel Terra offers both brunch and dinner. Start your day with sweet cream ricotta pancakes or a savory hash skillet. For dinner, indulge in homemade pizza or pasta. A top recommendation from our Mountain Travel Experts is to begin with the rosemary roasted olives and savor the lasagna for your entrée, paired perfectly with a glass of Pinot Noir.
Be sure to return to Spur for happy hour, or stay for dinner. Their local beers, such as Teton Range Juicy IPA or Old Faithful Blonde Ale, are the perfect accompaniment to American Kobe beef sliders or fried zucchini sticks — a pairing you won’t regret!
WHAT TO DO:
When planning a trip to the iconic Jackson Hole, most people immediately think of skiing and snowboarding, thanks to its world-class resort. While hitting the slopes is a must—whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an expert tackling the legendary Corbet’s Couloir—Jackson Hole offers many other unique mountain activities beyond skiing.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
Jackson Hole is consistently rated one of the top ski resorts in the U.S., known for its challenging terrain, exciting activities, rugged beauty, and the iconic European-style Aerial Tram, “Big Red.” If you’re just starting out, Jackson Hole’s ski school is the perfect place to build confidence. Experienced instructors will guide you through lessons at the dedicated learning center, offering a progression of skills so you and your family can navigate the mountain independently in no time. For seasoned skiers seeking extreme terrain, Jackson Hole delivers. Much of the advanced terrain is accessible via Big Red, which takes you up Rendezvous Mountain to legendary runs like Corbet’s Couloir and the hike-to terrain in Rendezvous Bowl. With 50% of the mountain designated for experts, it’s a dream playground for powder chasers.
Scenic Tram Ride:
A defining feature of Jackson Hole Ski Resort is the aerial tram, also known by the locals as “Big Red.” This European-style mountain tram glides 4,139 vertical feet to the top of Rendevouz mountain in just 9 minutes, offering the best bird’ s-eye view of the stunning Tetons and Jackson Hole Valley. Contrary to popular belief, riding Big Red isn’t just for skiers. Take the scenic tram to the summit for jaw-dropping views, or better yet, indulge in mouthwatering fresh waffles at Corbet’s Cabin, where the stunning panorama elevates every bite.
Wildlife Viewing:
Due to its high-alpine environment, Jackson Hole is home to many unique animals. Wildlife tours with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris and Ecotour Adventures offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to explore the area’s rich wildlife, including nearby Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. On these tours, guests often spot mule deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, bison, coyotes, foxes, bald and golden eagles, and even wolves. Wildlife can be seen while snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, during sunrise or sunset tours, or on special photography expeditions—each led by expert guides who ensure safety and enhance wildlife sightings.
Snowmobile:
If you’re looking to experience the snow and forests in a new way but need a break from skiing, a snowmobile tour is the perfect option. A guided tour through the Teton Mountain Range offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure, taking you away from the crowds and into the rugged backcountry of Wyoming for a truly immersive mountain experience.
WHERE TO RELAX:
The best part of vacation is escaping from reality, and the mountains offer the perfect setting for that. Both Hotel Terra and Teton Mountain Lodge boast renowned spas and wellness amenities that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. At Hotel Terra, you can enjoy a year-round heated infinity pool and a rooftop hot tub overlooking the village—ideal for relaxing, people-watching, and warming up after a day on the slopes. For deeper relaxation, visit Chill Spa, a rooftop sanctuary offering 100% organic products and signature treatments. Our Mountain Travel Experts highly recommend the Riverstone Retreat, a three-hour experience featuring a glass of champagne, a 1.5-hour hot stone massage using natural river stones, and a 1.5-hour facial—designed to provide ultimate relaxation and healing from the inside out.
SpaTerre at Teton Mountain Lodge offers a blend of Indonesian and Thai-inspired treatments in a serene mountain setting. The spa features a tranquility lounge and steam room for complete relaxation. Guests can also unwind in one of the five whirlpool tubs—perfect for sipping champagne while enjoying the warmth of the water and the crisp mountain air.
Jackson Hole is a destination that offers everything you desire for a perfect vacation—luxury, adventure, cozy mountain vibes, exquisite dining, family-friendly activities, and ultimate relaxation. It’s the ideal escape from reality. Whatever activity piques your interest, you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the stunning mountain offerings in Jackson Hole. Contact a Mountain Travel Expert to get started on planning your perfect mountain escape!
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