Why A Spring Visit To Jackson Hole Should Be On Your List
Spring In Jackson Hole
The change of seasons is upon us, and springtime in Jackson is one of the best kept secrets. It's the time of year when the Valley is quieter, the wildlife is becoming more active, and winter snow makes way for wildflowers. Bluebird skies beckon, and the longer days and rising temperatures make it a great time to revel in the fresh mountain air. Events start filling our calendars with everything from live music to farmer's markets, our iconic Jackson Hole Rodeo to the Million Dollar Music Fest. Below are a few of our favorite things to do during spring in Jackson Hole.
BIKING
FAT TIRE BIKING
Fat tire biking is the perfect way to take advantage of the snow melt while enjoying the warming weather. Pairing adventure with incredible views, fat biking has become a staple activity in the spring season. There are hundreds of groomed trails around the Jackson area to explore, and our Pathfinders will help you find the right one for your springtime adventures.
ROAD BIKING
Jackson is truly a bike friendly community, proven by our vast network of pathways and hundreds of miles of trails. Gliding along the base of the Tetons, you’ll encounter stunning vistas everywhere you look, with opportunities to stop off for a picnic lunch or local brew along the way. Whether you’re looking to rent a bike from one of our great local bike shops, or you bring your own, our Pathfinders will help you make the most of a springtime ride.
THE NATIONAL PARKS OPEN
Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks open in early May – at just the right time to catch a glimpse of the emerging wildlife. Both parks make the idyllic day trip from our basecamp in downtown Jackson Hole. The entrance to Grand Teton National Park is just a short 5 miles from The Cloudveil, and although the park is open year-round, many facilities open for the summer in early May. The South Entrance to Yellowstone National Park opens May 10th, and is just a little over an hour’s drive north.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Springtime indicates the emergence of wildlife from winter hibernation, as well as calving for the deer, elk and moose and migration of herds back to habitats. Bears are becoming more active as they get moving from winter hibernation, so your opportunity to spot these iconic mammals is pretty good. Our Pathfinders can help you book a wildlife tour or provide a map and recommendations on where to explore on your own.
LOCAL EVENTS
Spring brings some of our favorite events around town, not to mention weekly farmers markets, live music & more. A few iconic events you won’t want to miss:
Old West Days – May 17 – 27, 2024
Celebration of Western culture with a parade, family activities, rodeo, live music, local beer, and more.
Jackson Hole Rodeo – Begins May 25, 2024 + runs through the beginning of September
The Rodeo has been a part of Jackson Hole’s cowboy culture since the first settlers arrived over 100 years ago. Your Jackson Hole vacation would not be complete without experiencing the legendary Jackson Hole Rodeo.
Elkfest – May 18, 2024
Every spring, thousands of elk wintering on the National Elk Refuge lose their antlers before they migrate to their summer range. The Boy Scouts assist the Refuge with harvesting the shed antlers and auction them to bidders from around the world who make furniture, wall decorations, jewelry and food products from them. This annual event, which includes the High Noon Chili Cook-Off and the Mountain Man Rendezvous kick-off, supports the National Elk Refuge with a large portion of auction proceeds going back to habitat enhancement projects on the Refuge.
Million Dollar Music Festival – May 26, 2024
The iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is kicking off this inaugural music festival with country music star Jon Pardi. Enjoy this free, all-ages, big-stage concert on the Jackson Hole Town Square from 4 – 10pm.