7 Reasons to Visit Jackson Hole this Spring

Spring is the perfect season for a visit to Jackson Hole, WY.

Some might overlook the season of spring in Jackson Hole, claiming winter skiing and snowshoeing transition swiftly into summer rafting and hiking. However, locals know spring is a prominent part of the year here, offering unique activities and an exhilarating balance of warmer weather and shrunken crowds. As the local resorts finish their skiing seasons in April, discover the best things to do in April and May in Jackson Hole.

1. View Wildflowers & Wildlife

Spring is the peak season for observing nature and spotting wildlife in Jackson Hole, especially as the young animals just born begin to get their bearings in the world. Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are excellent spots to spot bears coming out of hibernation and bison are particularly active in Yellowstone. Of course, it’s important to always remain a safe distance from these animals, but they are still a pleasure to see. You might also spot elk migrating away from the National Elk Refuge or a calving deer or moose.

If you are the type to birdwatch, Jackson Hole's parks offer incredible birding opportunities, so make sure to bring your binoculars! From Jackson Hole's national parks, visitors can also interact with the area's stunning wildflowers that bloom from May through September and add vibrant hues to the valley and gain views of the area’s scenic mountain terrain. For the best chances of seeing wildlife, book a spring safari in Grand Teton National Park with a knowledgeable tour guide to lead the way.

2. Hiking

As the weather warms up, get outside with a hike through one of Jackson Hole's national parks. The roads to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are accessible beginning in mid-April through May, just in time for a late spring trip. Hiking in Jackson Hole opens up a world of panoramic views and a day of outdoor adventure, so get out there!

3. Road Biking

An unfortunate truth of spring in Jackson Hole is that the beautiful biking trails are quite muddy as all the snow begins to melt. However, with obstacle comes opportunity- and that is opportunity is road biking! There is a brief period of time after the snowy roads of Grand Teton and Yellowstone are plowed but before they are open to motorized vehicles. This is the perfect time of year to ditch the biking trails, and hit the road on your bike to tour the spectacular scenery of the national parks, without worrying about cars. Check out Inner Loop Road in Grand Teton National Park for a great view of the mountains as you ride. Keep in mind that most park roads will reopen to motorized vehicles by May 1st, so watch out for Yellowstone and Grand Teton road updates.

4. Skiing

Yes, skiing is mainly a winter activity, but there are still opportunities to partake throughout the spring. The thrill-seekers can venture off-trail to ski parts of the Tetons that typically aren’t accessible during winter, but just be careful of any mountain obstacles. Another unique aspect of spring skiing is the shift in snow conditions. Instead of fresh powder on the mountains, you’ll find firmly packed, icy snow in the morning, and then more softened snow as temperatures rise in the afternoon- this is known as corn snow. There are benefits to both, such as cross-country skiing along the frozen crust or downhill skiing on the corn snow.

5. Go Fishing

Jackson Hole's springtime fishing is accessible to expert anglers, first-time fishers, and everybody in between. Head out on an exciting adventure when you go float fishing, wade through Jackson Hole's waters, join in on a guided fly fishing tour with an experienced professional, or spend your day fishing alone in the peace and quiet of the area's parks. Visitors can design their fishing excursion to match their personal skill set and goals and see breathtaking scenery and wildlife along the way. Please make sure to check local guidelines and secure a fishing permit before heading out!

6. Celebrate Spring Events

With the spring season comes some exciting annual Jackson Hole events. Jackson Hole Rendezvous is a free 2-day music and lifestyle festival, with musical artists performing at various stages around town. Another popular springtime event is Elkfest in May. This iconic event held at Town Square is a symbol of spring’s arrival, since this is when elk shed their antlers and migrate away from the National Elk Refuge. To celebrate, their antlers are harvested and auctioned off at Elkfest, and a portion of the proceeds goes towards the refuge. There is also a chili cook-off, a bow & arrow competition, and more. Just at the end of spring, during Memorial Day Weekend, the Old West Days celebration begins. This event highlights Jackson Hole’s history and culture through a rodeo, a parade through the town of Jackson, and plenty more western activities.

7. Smaller Crowds & Bigger Savings

Visiting during springtime means fewer crowds so you can experience Jackson Hole like a local. Enjoy a relaxed pace, less traffic, and a quieter atmosphere when you visit in the spring months. You’ll also discover end-of-season shopping deals at local outfitters and boutiques, where you can get high-quality goods at low prices. You can also save on your spring travel when you stay with Town Square Inns. Our properties are all conveniently located to Jackson’s downtown shopping, dining, and nightlife so that you can make the most out of your trip.

We can’t wait to see you this spring!

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