8 Fantastic Summer Hikes Near Jackson, Wyoming that We Can’t Wait to Tell You About

One of the best ways to experience the Teton wilderness is on foot. With so much to explore, Jackson is a world-class destination for scenic hikes and beautiful trails. The great thing about being located so close to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, is there are endless amounts of trails for all abilities. We put together a rundown of our favorite hikes around the area for you to explore during your visit.

Hidden Falls Trail

If you’re looking for inspirational views of the stunning Teton Range, without the high-mileage commitments in the other hikes in this list, check out Hidden Falls Trail. Located at the Jenny Lake Trailhead inside Grand Teton National Park, this 4.9-mile loop makes its way up to Lower Inspiration Point for a stunning view of the Tetons and the surrounding area. As an added bonus, if you’re in the park between 7 am to 7 pm, you can hop a ride on a boat across Jenny Lake on the way back. This is one of the busiest hikes in Grand Teton National Park, so be sure to start early and get some quiet time on the trail.

Ski Lake Trail

For a break from the crazy crowds inside the national parks, head to Ski Lake in the Bridger-Teton National Forest. This 4-mile out-and-back trail finishes at a beautiful alpine lake with stellar mountain views. The moderate 900-foot uphill climb meanders through an alpine valley and pine forest, making it the perfect trail for beginner mountain hikers or those looking to acclimatize.

Bradley Lake Trail

If you want to gaze upon beautiful alpine lakes without the butt-busting elevation gains, head to Bradley Lake. This 5.1-mile loop stops at two alpine lakes with a dramatic mountain backdrop. Catch a glimpse of the Grand Teton, the second tallest mountain in Wyoming and a national icon.

Mystic Falls Trail to Fairy Creek Loop

This gorgeous waterfall hike takes you to a stunning 3.5-mile loop in Yellowstone National Park. Those looking for more hiking can continue up Fairy Creek-Little Firehole Trail for additional miles. The Fairy Creek Trail goes on for a while, so be sure to plan your route beforehand. Pack a lunch and your camera, as you’ll be snapping photos of the gorgeous waterfall and thermal pools. Be aware that this trail sometimes closes due to bear activity, so check with the ranger station before you go.

Snow King

You can’t mention Jackson Hole hiking without mentioning Snow King. Running the trails up this local-favorite mountain during the summer months is somewhat of a ritual. Locals love to take to the trail on lunch and try for the summit of Snow King. Start in the parking lot near the lift on Snow King Avenue and wind your way up 3.8 miles of steep hiking (the total elevation gain is 1,545 feet). At the top, you’ll grab a great view of Jackson. Opt to hike back down, or for $5 you can take the lift to the bottom and save your knees.

Corbet’s Trail

Check out Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s most famous couloir along this gentle 1-mile hike. Take the tram to the top of Rendezvous Mountain and continue across the high alpine ridgeline to the famous Corbet’s Couloir. This famed snow shoot is a rite of passage for any advanced skier or rider. In the summer, it’s a steep rock-filled passage. Enjoy the wildflowers along the way!

Psst: More advanced hikers might want to check out Marion Lake. This 12.5-mile round trip out-and-back hike starts in Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and ends in Grand Teton National Park. It boasts 4,250-feet of butt-busting elevation gain over stunning high-alpine scenery.

Cascade Canyon

Take the ferry across Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park for the chance to hike up Cascade Canyon. This jaw-dropping canyon boasts incredible scenery with unbeatable views. Make your way up the 9-mile, moderately steep trail and take in the beauty of the Teton Range. You can stop by Hidden Falls at the beginning or end of your hike too, if you’re feeling ambitious.

Alaska Basin Trail

If crowded trails aren’t your thing, head to the Alaska Basin Trail on the west side of the Teton Range. This 15-mile lollipop loop is a fantastic option for advanced hikers who want all the views without the crowds. During the summer months, this trail comes to life with wildflowers, truly a special site. Keep in mind, it’s got over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, the Alaska Basin isn’t for the faint of heart (or lungs!).

Jackson, Wyoming is home to some of the best hiking trails in the world. With so much ground to cover between national parks, national forests and wilderness areas it would take a lifetime to see them all. These eight magical trails are some of the best hikes that Jackson has to offer. So lace up those boots and hit the trail this summer, then come rest your weary feet with us at Spring Creek Ranch.