Jackson Hole: A Family Trip
Here is a one-day family itinerary for Jackson Hole, offering both summer and winter options. This itinerary balances outdoor adventure with family-friendly attractions and dining.
General Tips
Transportation: A car is helpful for getting between town and Grand Teton National Park.
Preparation: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and bear spray if hiking in the park.
Spring in Jackson Hole (April to June) is unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 20 F to 60 F, and a snowstorm is always possible, so it’s best to pack many layers to accommodate the weather changes. Start with a base layer of thermal underwear, add a mid-layer of fleece or wool, and top it off with a water-/windproof jacket and pants. Spring is a great time for hiking, but trails can still be snowy or muddy, so make sure to bring appropriate hiking shoes, a hat, and gloves for the colder days.
Morning: Nature and Wildlife
Breakfast Start your day with a hearty breakfast at our fave spot Persephone Bakery in downtown Jackson.
Grand Teton National Park Drive north to the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center in Moose to pick up a free Junior Ranger activity booklet for the kids.
Summer: Take a short, scenic walk around the easy Taggart Lake trail (approx. 3 miles round trip) or head to String Lake for easy water access, swimming, or picnicking.
Winter: Go for a scenic drive along the snow-covered roads, look for wildlife, or try family snowshoeing around a beginner trail like the one at Jenny Lake.
Wildlife Spotting Take a scenic drive back toward town along the Moose-Wilson Road or Antelope Flats, keeping an eye out for bison, elk, or moose—remember your binoculars!
Afternoon: Town Square & Activities
Lunch Head back to the town of Jackson for a casual lunch.
Summer: Grab a casual lunch at a place with outdoor seating like Calico Bar and Restaurant, which has a big yard where kids can play, or try Pinky G's Pizzeria for a quick slice.
Winter: Warm up at a family-friendly spot like Sidewinders American Grill, which features a kid's arcade and TVs.
Explore Town Square Stroll through the iconic Town Square, taking photos under the famous elk antler arches. Browse the Western shops and art galleries.
Choose Your Adventure
Summer: Visit the Snow King Mountain Resort for a "Big King Pass" to enjoy the alpine slide, Cowboy Coaster, mini-golf, and bungee trampoline.
Winter: Enjoy some classic winter fun like ice skating at the pond in Town Square or snow tubing at the King Tubes at the base of Snow King Mountain.
Evening: Western Entertainment
Dinner Have a family-friendly dinner at a local steakhouse like Gun Barrel Steak & Game, which offers local game options in a casual setting.
Evening Activity
Summer: Catch the historic Town Square Shootout, a free, family-friendly Old West re-enactment that takes place every evening (except Sundays) from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For a unique dinner experience, consider a Bar T 5 Covered Wagon Cookout and Show.
Spring-Summer Go to the Famous Jackson Hole Rodeo! We never miss it. Get your tickets in advance and know that it’s usually only a couple of days a week, so plan ahead.
Winter: Consider a quiet evening stroll around the beautifully lit Town Square or check out the schedule for the Jackson Hole Playhouse for a family-friendly dinner theater show
