Jackson Hole is a large valley in the northwestern part of Wyoming, close to the border with Idaho. It’s home to a few small towns, including the town of Jackson. The town lies west of U.S. 191 and north of Wyoming Highway 22 (a.k.a. the Teton Pass Highway). It’s just south of Grand Teton National Park, approximately 60 miles south of Yellowstone National Park, and near some of the premier ski resorts in the region. The closest towns are Victor, Idaho, and Driggs, Idaho; Idaho Falls is the nearest medium-sized city.
While Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and those ski resorts are big attractions, they’re not the only fun places to go in the valley. The region has something for everyone. You might have asked yourself, “Where is Jackson Hole?” in the past, but you’ll never forget where one of the prettiest valleys in the U.S. is after a vacation here.
Snow King Observatory and Planetarium
The Snow King Observatory and Planetarium is located up at 8,000 feet near the Snow King Mountain Resort. While the resort is closed when there’s no snow, the observatory is open year-round, offering day and evening shows. In summer, you may even be able to catch a concert. The fun begins before you even reach the planetarium — you get there via gondola.
National Elk Refuge
Those who want to see wildlife can stop at the National Elk Refuge, a massive 24,700-acre mix of forest and open land. This is a premier spot for wildlife watching, along with hiking and fishing. You can go in summer or winter and take driving tours in any season. However, if you go in winter, you may prefer to travel via sleigh ride instead.
Astoria Hot Springs Park
The Astoria Park Conservancy runs Astoria Hot Springs Park, where you can soak in and enjoy fresh mineral water pools. The park is located of U.S. 89, south of the valley. There’s a children’s pool with lower temperatures, as well as a cold pool for you to sit in after getting out of one of the hot springs. Two of the pools are ADA-accessible. The park has many amenities including a playground, and it’s the site of several community events.
Shopping and Dining in Jackson
The town of Jackson is the place to go for some fine food and souvenir shopping. If you simply want to visit a gorgeous valley and relax, spending time in Jackson is one of the best ways to decompress.
Visit Jackson Hole on Your Next Vacation
Jackson Hole is open no matter the season. Come visit one of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet for your next vacation.
Stay at Pony Express Motel
Complete your Jackson Hole adventure with a stay at the Pony Express Motel. Enjoy budget-friendly rates, clean and comfortable rooms and deluxe suites, a friendly staff, and an excellent location in town and near Grand Teton National Park all when you stay at the Pony Express Motel.