Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Summer Beyond the Obvious

Planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Jackson Hole in summer can feel overwhelming. There’s so much more here than the well-known stop, and that’s exactly where the magic lives. As a Jackson Hole native and family photographer, I’ve spent years exploring these mountains with my own family and with visitors who want something a little more meaningful and memorable. If you’re hoping to experience Jackson Hole in a way that feels effortless, thoughtful, and truly connected, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, I’m sharing what to do in Jackson Hole this summer that goes beyond the obvious. I’ll walk you through scenic outdoor experiences, hidden gems, and family-friendly adventures that feel just as special as the views. And if you’re dreaming about preserving this season with your people,

Let’s start with the kind of experiences that make summer here feel unforgettable: those wide-open, breathtaking moments you simply can’t replicate anywhere else.

Scenic Outdoor Experiences

When people think about things to do in Jackson Hole in summer, they often picture the Tetons, and for good reason. But beyond the iconic overlooks, there are so many ways to experience this landscape that feel a little more personal.

Here are a few scenic outdoor experiences that truly stand out:

1. Schwabacher Landing (Early Morning Magic)

If you’re willing to wake up early, this is one of the most peaceful places in the valley. The still water reflects the Tetons in a way that feels almost surreal. Wildlife sightings are common here, especially moose.

Best for: Quiet mornings and slow walks
Tip: Go at sunrise for the softest light and fewer crowds

2. Jenny Lake + Hidden Falls

Jenny Lake is one of the most loved spots in the park. If you want a more intimate view, take the short boat ride across the lake, then hike to Hidden Falls. It’s manageable for families and offers a mix of water, forest, and mountain views.

Best for: Families who want an easy but rewarding hike
Tip: Start early or go later in the evening for a quieter experience

If you’re planning more time in the park, you’ll love my guide on Family Friendly Adventures in Grand Teton National Park. It pairs beautifully with a day like this.

3. Taggart Lake Trail (Underrated + Stunning)

This is one of my favorite recommendations for families who want incredible views without a long trek. The trail is gentle, and when you reach the lake, the Tetons feel close enough to touch.

Best for: A relaxed hike with a big payoff
Tip: Pack a picnic, this is a beautiful spot to linger

I always tell families these scenic outdoor experiences aren’t just about checking off a list. They’re about slowing down, letting your kids explore, and giving yourself space to actually feel the place you traveled all this way to see.

That sense of play and connection naturally leads into the next kind of summer experience here: water-based adventures.

Water-Based Adventures for Warm Days

When the afternoons warm up, some of the best things to do in Jackson Hole in Summer involve getting out on the water. It’s a different pace from hiking as it’s more relaxed, playful, and perfect for families who want to mix in both adventure and ease.

Here are a few water-based experiences worth adding to your itinerary:

1. Snake River Scenic Float - Floating the Snake River is one of those experiences that feels effortless from start to finish. You’ll drift through wide-open views with chances to spot wildlife along the banks, all while taking in the Tetons from a completely different perspective.

   If you’re deciding between options, my guide on Family-Friendly White Water Rafting and Floats breaks it down in a really helpful way.

2. Phelps Lake - Tucked away in the park, Phelps Lake feels like a hidden escape. The short hike keeps it a bit quieter, and once you arrive, it’s the kind of place where kids can swim and explore while you settle in and stay awhile.

3. Jackson Lake -  For a more open, expansive feel, Jackson Lake offers space to spread out. Whether you rent a boat or enjoy a simple lakeside afternoon, it’s an easy way to slow down and take in the scenery without needing a full plan.

These moments on the water tend to bring out more laughter, more ease, and space to simply enjoy being together. And for families traveling with kids, that balance often becomes the highlight of the trip.

Family-Friendly Thrills and Activities

Some of the most memorable things to do in Jackson Hole in summer are the ones that bring a sense of excitement into your days. It’s that mix of adventure and simplicity where kids feel energized, and parents can still enjoy the experience right alongside them.

Here is how to balance both:

Thrilling Experiences

If your family is craving a bit of adrenaline, there are a few standout options that still feel approachable:

• Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram for sweeping views and a fun, high-alpine experience

• Try white water rafting for a more exciting ride down the Snake River

• Explore downhill biking trails at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for older kids and teens

These experiences add just enough thrill without feeling overwhelming.

Easygoing Activities

For something a little more relaxed, but still engaging. These activities are always a hit:

• Horseback riding tours through the Tetons is a beautiful, slower-paced adventure

• The Bridger Gondola for scenic rides without the intensity

• A classic Jackson Hole Rodeo night for something fun and local

If horseback riding is on your list, my guide to Family Friendly Horseback Riding Tours in the Tetons is a great place to start.

These are the kinds of experiences that bring energy into your trip—where laughter, a little adventure, and shared moments naturally come together before easing into slower days ahead.

Relaxed Options for Slower Days

Not every moment of your trip needs to be filled. Some of the best things to do in Jackson Hole in summer are the ones that invite you to slow down and simply enjoy where you are, with your people.

Here are a few slower-paced options that still feel meaningful:

1. Wander Jackson Town Square

Spend time wandering the square. I recommend popping into local shops, exploring art galleries, and grabbing a treat while the kids play nearby. It’s simple, but it’s part of the area’s charm.

2. Scenic Dining with a View

A relaxed meal with a view of the Tetons is something you won’t rush. Whether casual or elevated, this is where you sit back and take it all in.

3. Spa or Pool Afternoon in Teton Village

An afternoon by the pool or a quiet spa break can be exactly what your trip needs. It’s an easy way to recharge without missing the beauty around you.

These slower moments create space in your trip to rest, connect, and enjoy it all before exploring even more local favorites.

Local Favorites Visitors Often Miss

While there are plenty of well-known things to do in Jackson Hole in summer, some of the most meaningful experiences are the ones locals return to again and again. These are the places that feel a little more tucked away, a little less crowded, and often more connected to the rhythm of the valley.

One of those spots is Slide Lake, just outside of town. It’s quieter than many in-park lakes, with clear water and a laid-back feel that’s perfect for an easy afternoon. Families often bring paddleboards or simply relax along the shoreline, letting the day unfold slowly.

Another favorite is Persephone Bakery, especially in the morning. It’s the kind of place where you grab coffee and something fresh, then linger a little longer than planned. Sitting outside with a pastry in hand, watching the town wake up, feels like a moment you don’t want to rush.

For something a bit more scenic without the crowds, the Wilson area, including drives along Moose-Wilson Road, offers beautiful views, winding roads, and frequent wildlife sightings. It’s less about a single stop and more about the experience of exploring.

These are the places that don’t always make the highlight reel, but they’re often the ones that stay with you. And as your days begin to fill with these quiet, meaningful moments, it becomes only natural to want to remember them in a more lasting way.

Adding Photos to Your Summer Itinerary

As you start mapping out your favorite things to do in Jackson Hole in summer, it’s worth thinking about how you want to remember it all. The beauty of this place isn’t just in the landscapes, it’s in the moments you share while you’re here.

If capturing those memories is part of your plan, here’s how to naturally weave a photo session into your trip:

• Choose a Day That Feels Unrushed
  Plan your session on a day with some breathing room, often after you’ve settled in and everyone feels relaxed.

• Time It Around Golden Hour
  The hour just before sunset brings the softest, most flattering light. It’s when the Tetons truly glow.

• Pair It With an Activity You Already Love
  Heading to the park, exploring a lake, or enjoying an evening stroll? These moments blend beautifully into a session without feeling forced.

• Keep Outfits Simple + Coordinated
  Neutral tones and soft textures photograph best in the natural landscape. Comfort always matters just as much as style.

• Let It Be Part of the Experience
  The best sessions don’t feel like a photoshoot. They feel like time spent together, walking, playing, and simply being present.

When you approach it this way, your photos become more than just images. They reflect the feeling of your trip, the connection, the setting, and the moments that made it yours. And in a place like Jackson Hole, those are the memories that deserve to be held onto.

Making the Most of Your Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Summer

At the end of the day, the best things to do in Jackson Hole in summer aren’t just about where you go, they’re about how it all feels while you’re there. The slow mornings, the sun-filled afternoons, the moments your kids are laughing by the water or walking hand in hand beneath the mountains, those are the pieces that stay with you.

Jackson Hole has a way of turning simple experiences into something more meaningful. Whether you’re out exploring, trying something new, or simply taking it all in, there’s a rhythm here that invites you to be present and connected.

And if you’re already planning a trip like this, it’s worth considering how you’ll remember it. These are the seasons that pass quickly, but the memories don’t have to. If you’re dreaming of documenting your time here in a way that feels natural and effortless, I’d love to help you capture it, just as it unfolds.

When you’re ready, reach out to start planning your photo session. And in the meantime, enjoy every moment of your time in Jackson Hole, it truly is something special.