Exploring Jackson Hole with The Positive Parent

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

For urban dwellers and positive parents residing in suburban areas, the idea of venturing into the expansive wilderness of Jackson Hole, Wyoming may seem daunting, especially if your daily life mainly consists of city landscapes rather than natural scenery.

Jackson Hole is situated near Grand Teton National Park, a haven for experienced outdoor enthusiasts. However, you don’t need to be an expert skier to appreciate the beauty of Jackson Hole. With activities like wildlife sightings, snowshoeing, and hot springs, this destination is accessible to everyone, including children.

This 3-day itinerary tailored for the positive parent in Jackson Hole includes a range of activities to make the most of your family’s time. We have compiled various options to keep the kids engaged, active, and foster bonding opportunities, both in the town of Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park, without requiring any prior outdoor experience.

Where to Stay in Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

When visiting Jackson Hole, The Positive Parent should fly into the Jackson Hole Airport, which is convenient and efficient. Upon arrival, it is recommended to either pick up a rental car for exploring Grand Teton National Park or arrange for a car service to take you to your accommodation.

There are two primary accommodation options in Jackson Hole suitable for families looking to enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities:

For a three-day family trip, The Positive Parent should consider staying in Teton Village due to its proximity to essential amenities. Teton Village offers easy access to ski shops, dining options, and the slopes of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa

If you’re staying in Teton Village, here are some accommodation options:

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Teton Village, there are a variety of hotels to choose from. Options include the Four Seasons Resort, which is conveniently located close to the ski slopes, as well as the Snake River Lodge & Spa. Another popular choice among visitors is the Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, known for its inviting and cozy atmosphere highlighted by a welcoming fireplace in the lobby.

Day 1 Itinerary

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Start your day with breakfast at Spur restaurant and bar located in Teton Mountain Lodge. Once everyone is energized, you will be eager to begin your first adventure in Jackson Hole.

Skiing

If you are a family who enjoys skiing, you may already be aware that Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village is highly regarded for snow sports in the country. Offering 2,500 acres of skiable terrain and 133 ski runs, the mountain in Teton Village is a fantastic destination for powder enthusiasts.

With 13 ski lifts available, wait times are minimal, allowing eager kids to get onto the slopes quickly. It is important to note that only 10% of the ski runs at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort are designed for beginners; the majority cater to expert skiers. Nevertheless, the Mountain Sports School at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort provides lessons for skiers of all ages and skill levels.

Teton Mountain Lodge Ski Assistance Service

Enjoy the convenience of the Teton Mountain Lodge’s ski assistance service, where The Positive Parent can easily plan ahead by booking lift tickets, arranging rental skis and snowboards for themselves and their children, all conveniently done right at the hotel. Say goodbye to the hassle of bringing bulky gear on your family vacation.

Snow tubing

Begin your family vacation with a visit to King Tubes at Snow King Mountain. Rent snow tubes by the hour and enjoy sliding down three designated slopes for an exhilarating intertubing experience. Suitable for children aged 4 and above (minimum height of 42 inches to ride), this activity promises plenty of laughter and joy. The slopes open at 11 am, and tickets are priced at $35 per person.

For a snowless alternative, kids can opt for a thrilling ride on the Cowboy Coaster, also situated at Snow King Mountain. Riders hop into a sled and navigate through a series of twists and turns, all while enjoying picturesque views of the Tetons in the distance.

Hiking 

Exploring nearby Grand Teton National Park is a must-do activity for families, located just a short distance from Teton Village. The park offers a variety of ways to experience its beauty, including hiking, camping, or driving through for scenic views. The choice of activity will depend on your family’s sense of adventure, physical capabilities, and your children’s ages and interest in outdoor pursuits.

If you are new to Grand Teton National Park or have young children with you, starting with an easy hike is a great way to begin your exploration. There are several moderately challenging trails that provide a captivating view of the stunning landscape, making it a suitable option for families embracing the outdoor adventure lifestyle.

Itinerary Day 2

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Following the previous day’s exciting outdoor activities, you may want to begin day two at a more leisurely pace.

Unwind and recharge 

Gather the family and make your way to the Aerial Tram in Teton Village (just a short walk from Teton Mountain Lodge), where you can ascend 10,450 feet to the peak of Rendezvous. Once at the top, indulge in some delicious waffles at Top of the World Waffles in Corbet’s Cabin (don’t forget to enjoy a coffee with Bailey’s for the positive parent).

Following breakfast, make your way back down the mountain and take a short drive to the National Museum of Wildlife Art. A leisurely stroll through the museum could provide a nice contrast to the chilly weather. You and your family can meander through various galleries showcasing paintings and artworks featuring animals from across the globe.

Wildlife encounters

The Positive Parent Mountain Resort

Located near the museum, families can enjoy the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides for a memorable experience in Jackson Hole’s National Elk Refuge. Coordinate your sleigh ride after visiting the museum to witness elk up close and even spot bald eagles and bison.

Guided by a tour leader, families are taken on horse-drawn sleigh tours lasting 45 to 60 minutes through the refuge. Tickets can be bought at the National Elk Refuge Visitor Center in Jackson, with tours operating daily from 10 am to 4:00 pm (families can also drive through the refuge for free, but without the same close-up views). Remember that December through February is when the most elk are present before they move on in the spring.

Experience a Wildlife Adventure

Families looking for a new and exciting winter activity can opt for a wildlife safari in Jackson Hole and its surroundings with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris. Instead of the traditional sleigh ride, this adventure offers an immersive wildlife-spotting experience ideal for families with up to 8 members, including young children who may be more eager to see animals in their natural habitat.

The half-day tour guarantees sightings of moose, bighorn sheep, and bison, providing a memorable and educational experience. For those seeking a more in-depth exploration, an 8-hour tour is available, taking participants through diverse landscapes to observe the region’s winter wildlife.

Guests will travel in a comfortable SUV, with a knowledgeable guide picking them up directly from their hotel. The half-day tour offers two convenient pick-up times at 7 am and 1 pm, with prices starting from $170 per person.

Itinerary Day 3

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Make the most of your final day by heading out into the wild one more time to discover the surroundings beyond Teton Village.

Hot Springs

Located just 20 minutes from Jackson, The Positive Parent can discover a haven at Astoria Hot Springs and Park where the whole family, including young children, can relax and have fun. Situated in Snake River Canyon amidst 100 acres of wetlands, the park features six pools supplied by natural hot springs, including a pool exclusively for kids. You can visit the park year-round to enjoy a warm soak surrounded by snow while admiring the scenic views of the Snake River. Tickets are available for any of the four 2-hour sessions held throughout the day, with prices starting at $18 for children under 12 and $25 for adults. It is advisable to make reservations in advance to secure your spot.

Snowshoeing

If The Positive Parent books an early-morning session at the hot springs park and wishes to engage in one final adventure before winding down for the evening, a 2.5-hour snowshoe tour of Grand Teton National Park could be an excellent choice—especially when traveling with teenagers capable of moderate aerobic activity. This specific tour commences at 1:00 pm and is designed for beginners, so prior experience is not required.

Stargazing  

Following a quick break and maybe changing into fresh clothes at the hotel, it’s time to venture out again. When the night sky is clear, take the gondola up 8,000 feet to the summit of Snow King Mountain, where The Positive Parent and their family can enjoy an evening at the Snow King Observatory and Planetarium. This nighttime adventure offers incredible views of planets, constellations, and the Milky Way, making it a perfect way to end the trip to Jackson Hole. (Plus, arriving around 4:30pm allows you to witness a breathtaking sunset with the Tetons as the backdrop!)

Upon reaching the planetarium, the three-hour program features two hours of stargazing using impressive telescopes on the observatory deck and is best suited for kids 8 years and older. However, The Positive Parent with younger children can come and go as needed if they become restless—the gondola is always available to transport them back down the mountain.

Enjoy Dinner at Mangy Moose

Conclude your day with a delicious dinner and a refreshing local beer or mocktail at The Mangy Moose, a popular spot among Jackson Hole residents and tourists. With its cozy wooden decorations and unique moose decor, this restaurant is a favorite among the village’s experienced skiers and families alike for a relaxing evening out.

The Mangy Moose’s observatory operates five nights a week, weather permitting, with limited spots available for nighttime programs. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance for your chosen date due to high demand.