Planners looking for a unique and exciting destination yet one that isn’t half a world away should consider Jackson Hole. With its stunning year-round beauty, opportunities for outdoor adventure, fine art galleries, authentic Western character, and proximity to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, it is a great option.
The town of Jackson, located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, is a charming and picturesque mountain town. With its wooden boardwalks, town square, and rugged Western ambiance, Jackson has a unique charm that attracts visitors from all over the world.
The town’s main attraction is its historic Town Square. It is surrounded by boutique shops, galleries, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. The town’s famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, with its Western decor and live music, is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the local nightlife.
The town also serves as the gateway to Grand Teton National Park with its south entrance just miles away. The majestic peaks offer breathtaking views and ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the park’s lakes and rivers by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, or take a scenic drive along the picturesque roads.
Another must-see attraction in the area is Yellowstone National Park, located just a short and stunning drive about one hour north of town. Yellowstone, the country’s first national park and encompassing over 2.2 million acres, is famous for its geothermal features, including Old Faithful, as well as its abundance of wildlife, such as bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. It is a treasure that everyone should see at least once but a place surprisingly few have been to.
For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled experience, Jackson Hole is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers some of the most challenging and rewarding terrain in North America and is located just 20 minutes from the town of Jackson, in Teton Village. Groups also love to snowmobile in the surrounding mountains. One outing that can be arranged is an afternoon on the snowmobile trails, with the treat of a dip in the natural hot springs, mid-tour.
In the summer months, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking and scenic float trips. Fly fishing is also popular in the area, with several local outfitters offering guided trips on the region’s rivers and streams and of course there are beautiful golf courses that sit on the valley floor that groups can play. For those looking for something unique and authentic, consider an event at the Jackson Hole Rodeo.
Accommodations in the valley include Amangani which is located on a hilltop between Jackson and Teton Village. It is part of the Aman portfolio and has amazing views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole in Teton Village is right at the base of the ski area and offers a range of amenities, including a spa and fitness center. For those that would prefer to stay in town, the new Cloudveil, an Autograph Collection, is a nice option.
While the flight schedules vary based on season, there are a surprising number of non-stop flights. In both winter and summer, there are flights from the largest US cities. Options are often daily but some airlines fly into and out of JAC (Jackson Hole Airport) just two or three times a week so for larger groups, or for groups that need more flexibility, a charter might be considered.
Temperatures should also be a consideration. While the destination is stunning, expect temperatures to be a bit lower here than in other incentive destinations during the same seasons. Average highs during ski season range between 28 and 42, while in the summer months, highs may be in the low 80s but nighttime temperatures may plummet to the low 40s or high 30s so be sure to communicate this with the group.
With all it has to offer, Jackson Hole offers a one-of-a-kind experience that sets it apart from other destinations in the United States, and the world. It is definitely worth a look!
Thanks to our partner DMC in Jackson, RMC.