The best walks and hikes around Jackson

Yes, the Cache Creek area is a great choice for hiking with dogs. The Cache Creek loop from Jackson is a well-regarded trail that follows the creek. Many trails in the Bridger-Teton National Forest are dog-friendly, but always check specific regulations and keep your dog under control, especially due to wildlife.

For a simple and flat walk, the Broadway Avenue, Jackson loop is a very accessible option right in town. Another excellent choice is the String Lake Loop in Grand Teton National Park, which is relatively flat and offers great spots for a picnic by the water with mountain views.

Even for a short hike, it's essential to be prepared. Key items include: plenty of water, high-energy snacks, a map (or a downloaded route on your phone), a first-aid kit, and sunscreen. Weather can change rapidly, so always bring layers, including a waterproof jacket. Bear spray is also strongly recommended and knowing how to use it is crucial.

The prime hiking season is from late June through September. During this time, most trails are snow-free, wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is generally pleasant. Fall, particularly September, offers beautiful autumn colors and fewer crowds. Trails at higher elevations may hold snow until July.

Yes, the region offers plenty of strenuous climbs. The Crystal Butte Trail is a demanding route that rewards you with expansive views of the Teton Range from an open butte. For a truly high-alpine experience, consider the trails at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, accessible via the Aerial Tram in summer.

Many trails provide spectacular views. For a moderate hike with a rewarding vista, the Josie's Ridge to Snow King Mountain trail offers panoramic views overlooking the town and toward the Teton Range. The popular Taggart Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park is another favorite for its classic reflection views of the peaks in the lake.

Jackson Hole is home to bears, moose, and other large animals. To stay safe, make noise while you hike by talking or clapping, especially in dense brush or near streams. Never feed or approach wildlife. It is highly recommended to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hiking in groups is always safer than hiking alone.

To escape the crowds, explore the trails in the Gros Ventre Wilderness, which tend to be less trafficked than those in the national park. The Lakeshore Trail along Jackson Lake is often described as a hidden gem, offering stunning Teton views with fewer people. Exploring deeper into the Bridger-Teton National Forest will also lead to more secluded paths.

The trails around Jackson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic mountain scenery, the well-maintained paths through pine and aspen forests, and the abundant opportunities for wildlife spotting.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore. This guide features a curated selection, but the broader Jackson Hole area, including Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest, contains hundreds of miles of trails catering to every skill level, from valley floor strolls to multi-day alpine treks.

While many trailheads require a car, some areas are accessible via the START Bus system. You can take a bus to Teton Village to access trails at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. For most trailheads within Grand Teton National Park or the surrounding national forest, a personal vehicle is necessary.

Yes, Snow King Mountain, often called the "Town Hill," has a network of trails accessible from town. The Snow King Mountain Park – Snow King Mountain loop is a challenging but convenient option that starts and ends in Jackson, offering great views over the valley.