24 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Jackson Hole This Summer (2026 Guide)
There are family vacations, and then there are Jackson Hole family vacations.
Few places combine luxury accommodations, unforgettable outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and genuine connection quite like this corner of Wyoming. Whether you're exploring Grand Teton National Park, celebrating a milestone together, or simply carving out quality time away from the pace of everyday life, Jackson Hole delivers something meaningful for every member of the family.
As a Jackson Hole family photographer, I've spent years helping families experience this incredible place. Many visitors arrive focused on the national parks—and they should—but some of the best memories happen in quieter moments: an evening walk through Town Square, skipping rocks at String Lake, sharing waffles near the summit, or watching a Wyoming sunset paint the wide-open valley below.
If you're planning a Jackson Hole family vacation this summer, here are 25 experiences worth adding to your itinerary.
Why Jackson Hole Is the Perfect Family Summer Destination
Jackson Hole sits at the base of the Teton Range in northwest Wyoming, offering direct access to two of the country's most iconic national parks—Grand Teton and Yellowstone—alongside a thriving town full of western culture, live music, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly activities. Whether your family loves hiking, wildlife watching, mountain biking, or simply relaxing with great food and stunning views, Jackson Hole delivers.
Visit Grand Teton National Park
No Jackson Hole summer trip is complete without time inside Grand Teton National Park. The must-see stops for families include:
String Lake — shallow, warm-ish water and a sandy shoreline perfect for young kids
Jenny Lake — take the boat shuttle across and hike to Hidden Falls
Schwabacher Landing — stunning Teton reflections and easy walking paths
Oxbow Bend — one of the best spots for evening wildlife viewing and sunset photography
Snake River Overlook — the classic panoramic view most families recognize
Hidden Falls — a rewarding hike that doesn't require serious fitness levels
These are the iconic Jackson Hole experiences most families remember long after the trip ends.
Best Family Activities in Jackson Hole by Age
Not sure where to start? Use this quick guide to match activities to your kids' ages.
Toddlers: String Lake, wildlife tours, tram rides
Ages 4–7: Ropes course, bungee trampoline, rodeo, float trips
Ages 8–12: Horseback riding, whitewater rafting, hiking, wildlife safaris
Teens: Mountain biking, Via Ferrata, ropes course, rafting
Multi-Generational: Float trips, tram rides, wildlife tours, rodeo
The 25 Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole This Summer
1. Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram
One of the most iconic summer experiences at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is riding the Aerial Tram to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain.
At over 10,000 feet, you'll take in panoramic, boundless views of the Tetons, the valley floor, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Stop at Corbet's Cabin for their famous waffles before exploring the mountaintop trails. This is one activity that genuinely impresses every age group.
2. Spend the Day at String Lake
If you're traveling with young children, String Lake is a must-visit. The shallow shoreline is one of the safest places for kids to splash and play while parents soak in the mountain backdrop.
Bring paddleboards, pack a picnic, and plan to stay several hours. Many locals consider it the best kid-friendly spot in Grand Teton National Park.
Why families love String Lake:
Shallow, calm water safe for young kids
Sandy shoreline
Warmer temperatures than most mountain lakes
Paddleboard opportunities
Stunning Teton backdrop
3. Explore Jenny Lake
Jenny Lake remains one of the most beautiful and accessible areas in Grand Teton National Park. Take the shuttle boat across the lake and hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point for some of the most rewarding views in the park. The trail is manageable for most school-age kids and genuinely spectacular for everyone.
4. Book a Family Photography Session in Jackson Hole
One of the most common regrets I hear from families? Not scheduling photos during their trip.
Your children will never be this age again. This season of life won't come back. A professional Jackson Hole family photography session lets you preserve these memories while surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in North America.
At TB Photography, sessions are designed to feel relaxed and enjoyable—no forced poses or stiff smiles. I guide your family through locations, lighting, wardrobe planning, and timing so you can focus entirely on each other.
Book a Family Photography Session in Jackson Hole
Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Jackson Hole Family Photographer
What to Wear for Family Photos in Jackson Hole
Best Family Photo Locations in Jackson Hole
5. Watch for Wildlife in Grand Teton National Park
Jackson Hole offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the country. Join a guided wildlife tour led by knowledgeable guides and expert naturalists who know exactly where animals have been spotted recently—dramatically increasing your chances of memorable sightings.
Depending on the season, your family may spot:
Moose
Elk
Bison
Bald Eagles
Pronghorn
Black Bears
Early mornings offer the best opportunities. Comfortable transport makes these excursions accessible for kids and grandparents alike—and a good guide makes all the difference.
6. Visit Schwabacher Landing
Few locations in Grand Teton National Park capture the magic of the Tetons quite like Schwabacher Landing. The calm water reflections, easy walking paths, and frequent wildlife sightings make it perfect for families with younger children. Early morning visits reward you with soft pastel light and active wildlife along the riverbanks.
This is also one of my favorite Jackson Hole family photography locations.
Internal Link: Best Family Photo Locations in Jackson Hole
7. Float or Raft the Snake River
The Snake River offers something for every family. Gentle scenic floats carry you through protected wildlife habitat with incredible Teton views—bald eagle and moose sightings are common, and the calm water is suitable for all ages. Morning departures tend to offer the best wildlife activity. For older kids and teens ready for more excitement, whitewater rafting options are available as well.
Many families rank this one of the highlights of their entire Jackson Hole trip.
8. Purchase the Grand Adventure Pass
The Grand Adventure Pass is one of the best values at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for families. It includes:
Tram rides
Gondola rides
Climbing wall
Bungee trampoline
Ropes course
Hiking access from the mountain base
If your family plans to spend a full day at the resort, this pass pays for itself quickly.
9. Walk Through Jackson Town Square
No family trip to Jackson Hole is complete without time in Town Square. Grab ice cream or candy from local shops, browse boutiques, and snap a photo beneath the famous antler arches. It's an easy walking loop that works for a casual morning or a laid-back evening outing.
While you're there, catch the Jackson Hole Shootout—the longest-running shootout reenactment in the West, performed regularly throughout summer. A great nod to the area's Old West heritage that kids genuinely love.
10. Attend the Jackson Hole Rodeo
For an authentic Wyoming experience, spend an evening at the Jackson Hole Rodeo. Weekly summer events feature bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping. Kids especially love the mutton bustin' events—sheep riding for the youngest daredevils. Evening timing means cooler temperatures and often a gorgeous sunset glow over the arena.
This is consistently one of the most memorable evenings for out-of-state families.
11. Hike to Hidden Falls
One of the most popular family-friendly hikes in Grand Teton National Park, the trail to Hidden Falls is a rewarding destination without requiring a strenuous effort. Shaded trail sections provide welcome relief on warm summer days. Combine it with the Jenny Lake boat shuttle for a full morning adventure kids will talk about long after the trip.
12. Visit Mormon Row Historic District
The historic barns of Mormon Row are among the most photographed spots in Wyoming. Arrive early for the best light and fewer crowds. The wide-open spaces of Wyoming feel especially vast here, giving kids plenty of room to explore while you take in that classic golden field and mountain backdrop.
13. Go Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole
Horseback riding is one of the best ways to immerse your family in western heritage. Local outfitters offer guided trail rides for beginners and families, with options ranging from one-hour rides to half-day adventures. Routes wind through wildflower meadows and mountain terrain with scenic views of the Grand Teton region. Most rides operate May through October.
14. Ride the Jackson Hole Bike Paths
The paved pathway system connecting Jackson to Teton Village is one of the area's most underrated family activities. The routes are flat, easy, and suitable for kids of all ages, with scenic river and mountain views throughout. Electric bike rentals are widely available if you want extra help covering distance—a great option for multi-generational groups.
15. Go Mountain Biking at Snow King or Cache Creek
Jackson Hole is one of the best mountain bike destinations in the American West. Trails range from novice-friendly routes on the valley floor to advanced single-track at Snow King and Cache Creek for experienced riders. Lift-access biking and e-bike options make this accessible for a wider range of families. Gravity Logic's well-maintained trail network is a great starting point for planning.
16. Explore Teton Village
Teton Village isn't just a ski resort in winter. Summer brings outdoor dining, live music, and access to mountain adventures including the Sweetwater Gondola. The base area has a relaxed, festive energy that makes it easy to fill an afternoon—and a great launching pad for several other activities on this list.
17. Ride the Bridger Gondola
For families who want incredible views without a long hike, the Bridger Gondola at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an excellent option. The gondola reaches the mountaintop in minutes, where you'll find dining, hiking trail access, and sweeping views over the valley—especially stunning at sunset. It's particularly well-suited for multi-generational families.
18. Swim at Phelps Lake
Phelps Lake combines a satisfying hike with swimming and open alpine scenery inside Grand Teton National Park. The forested trail offers shaded sections that keep the walk comfortable even on warmer days. Older kids love the famous jumping rock, and the crystal-clear water is a refreshing payoff. A great alternative to String Lake for active, older children.
19. Conquer the Teton Village Ropes Course
The multi-level ropes course at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort delivers real excitement for kids and teens, designed for ages five and up with a full safety harness system. Pair it with the bungee trampoline for a high-energy afternoon at the resort—all with the Tetons as your backdrop.
20. Watch Sunset at Oxbow Bend
Few spots in Jackson Hole rival Oxbow Bend for evening wildlife viewing and natural beauty. The iconic Snake River reflections and frequent moose sightings at dusk make this one of the best sunset photography locations in Wyoming. Pack a picnic dinner, arrive before golden hour, and plan to linger.
21. Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art
Located just north of Town Square above the National Elk Refuge, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is a surprisingly captivating stop for families. The world-class collection celebrates North American wildlife, and the building itself blends beautifully into the hillside.
Many families don't expect to love this stop—and end up staying for hours. Look for free family event days and daily docent tours that make the visit especially engaging for younger visitors.
22. Explore Snow King Mountain
The base of Snow King Mountain—Jackson's hometown ski resort—offers a range of family-friendly summer activities. In addition to hiking access, the mountain features a coaster, mini golf, a disc golf course, and the annual King Concert Series. It's walkable from Town Square, making it an easy addition to any downtown afternoon.
23. Soak at Granite Hot Springs
For adventurous families looking for something a little off the beaten path, Granite Hot Springs is worth the drive. Surrounded by forest and mountain scenery, this natural mountain hot spring is a genuinely memorable experience—especially after a long day of hiking. It tends to feel like a local secret and often becomes one of the trip's quiet highlights.
24. Enjoy Live Music Throughout the Summer
Jackson Hole is full of great live music all summer long—and most of it is family-friendly. A few highlights:
Grand Teton Music Festival — world-class orchestral performances held in Teton Village throughout the summer
Teton Village Summer Concerts — free outdoor concerts with lawn seating, mountain views, food vendors, and space for kids to run
Annual King Concert Series at Snow King Mountain — open-air music with a mountain backdrop
Wednesday evenings and Sunday nights around Town Square and Teton Village often feature beloved local musicians, open mic nights, and free community events
The Wort Hotel's Silver Dollar Showroom is a local favorite for live music with a historic Western atmosphere worth stepping into.
End Your Vacation with Family Portraits
Many families choose to schedule their Jackson Hole family photography session toward the end of their trip. By then, everyone has settled into vacation mode, the kids are relaxed, and you've already experienced much of what makes this place special. The result is a gallery that captures not only how your family looked—but how it felt to be here together, in this season of life, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in North America.
Whether we photograph your family at Schwabacher Landing, Mormon Row, or one of Jackson Hole's hidden gems, the goal is always the same: create timeless images that become part of your family's story.
Ready to book your session? Visit TB Photography to learn more about Jackson Hole family photography.