When you think of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village, Wyoming, you probably think of skiing. And rightly so. The resort is known for its world-class skiing, with challenging terrain and deep powder. People visit for personalized private skiing lessons, to take their family for ski days (on gentler slopes) and to have luxurious après-ski experiences in the winter. But there are a number of other outdoor things to do at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort beyond skiing.
Whether you’re into hiking, biking, learning about nature or climbing rocks (and ropes) — or simply into mountain views — you’ll find that Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the warmer months offers an entirely new way to experience the mountains.
Here are five things to do at the resort other than ski:
Take the Aerial Tram to the Grand Teton Skywalk and Interpretive Nature Experience
One of the highlights of visiting Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the summer and fall is taking the iconic Aerial Tram up to Rendezvous Mountain. At the top, you’ll discover the Grand Teton Skywalk — a viewing platform where you can see the vistas of the Tetons, Jackson Hole Valley, and surrounding mountain ranges. This spot is only a short walk from the tram and gives you a nice perspective from high above.
In addition to the sweeping views, the area features a new (in 2024) interpretive nature experience where you can learn about the local ecosystem, history, geology, and wildlife. Through interpretive signage, you’ll take a self-guided walk to learn about things like the history behind the Teton Fault, get to know the mammals of the mountains (like pika and marmots) and understand how the Whitebark Pine tree’s seeds disperse.
The nature walk is a way for you to combine education with scenic beauty. And the tram ride itself is an experience. So if you’re looking to soak in nature without much physical exertion, the Skywalk and nature walk are ideal to add to your list.
Don’t miss out — bonus insider tip: You can enjoy a gourmet waffle at 10,450 feet on top of Rendezvous Mountain. Located between the skywalk and some of the interpretive nature walk signage you’ll find Corbet’s Cabin, a small cafe covered in colorful skis where you can enjoy freshly made (and delicious) waffles.
Hike the Trails
If you’re into hiking, the resort offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the region. A favorite for many visitors is the Wildflower Trail, which stretches nearly 5 miles and takes you from the base of the resort up to Rendezvous Lodge, where the views are nothing short of spectacular.
If you’re ready for a higher-altitude challenge, try the Casper Ridge Loop or the Cirque Trail. Both trails begin at over 9,000 feet, giving you panoramic views of the Jackson Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. These hikes are perfect for both moderate and experienced hikers, with options ranging from serene meadows to rugged mountain terrain.
Insider tip: You can hike from right below the skywalk — taking the Skyline Trail to the Bridger Gondola for a hot slice of pizza at the Off-Piste Market below. (Also known as mountain dining.) The hike is a moderately difficult 1.8 mile trail down the mountain and typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and trail conditions. You can then ride the Bridger Gondola back down to the resort.
Rent an E-Bike and Explore Paved Trails Near the Resort
If you’re planning a summer trip to JHMR, you can cover more ground on an e-bike. Want to cover more ground while still enjoying the fresh mountain air? Renting an e-bike is the perfect way to explore the paved trails that snake around Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. There are more than 56 miles of paved pathways that link the town of Jackson to Teton Village and Grand Teton National Park.
With an e-bike you can pedal along scenic routes with minimal effort while you take in the views of the Grand Tetons and surrounding landscapes. Be on the lookout for elk, moose, deer and bear.
With well-maintained paths and plenty of rest spots, this is a relaxing yet active way to get out into nature. Plus, the freedom of an e-bike allows you to explore more of the valley than you would on foot, making it a great option if you’re looking to maximize your sightseeing in a single day.
JH Sports, Teton Village Sports and Hoback Sports all offer bike rentals. The resort offers adaptive biking experiences, too, for all levels of challenge upon special request, partnering with Teton Adaptive to offer a full range of adaptive off-road options like handcycles. You can also have bikes delivered to your lodge if you’re staying at the resort.
Don’t miss out — bonus insider tip: Whether you’re e-biking or driving, I highly recommend heading into Grand Teton National Park to watch the sunrise in the early morning.
Challenge Yourself on the Aerial Ropes Course
If you’re looking for a family fun activity, the Aerial Ropes Course in the village is a great way to spend a couple hours. You’ll be suspended 25 feet in the air and you can choose from multiple levels of difficulty. This course features balance beams, cargo nets, wobbly bridges, and a variety of other challenging obstacles. Whether you’re bringing the kids or just looking for a fun activity to test your limits, the ropes course is sure to bring out your inner adventurer. It’s also an easy walk from all of the lodges in the resort.
No experience is necessary, and there’s staff on hand to guide you through the course.
Insider tip: The ropes course is typically open from mid-June through early September. Check the website for the best months to visit when the course is open.
Experience the Via Ferrata
If you enjoy rock climbing, you’ll probably love the Via Ferrata. This Italian-influenced climbing route has cables, metal rungs, ladders and bridges to help you ascend high above the valley floor. With 17 routes ranging in difficulty, this activity offers something for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. The longest route is more than 500 vertical feet and all routes “can” include crossing the 120-foot suspension bridge. You can usually climb one to two routes on the half-day adventure and even more routes with the six-hour full-day trip.
You’re also led by experienced guides as you make your way up the mountain face while tethered to a safety cable — giving you a thrilling (and safe) way to experience rock climbing. The views from the route are unbeatable, and you’ll feel an incredible sense of accomplishment as you scale the heights of Casper Bowl.
Insider tip: All of the via ferrata routes lead you back to the restaurants at Rendezvous Lodge so you can get some replenishment after a day on the mountain.
Suzanne Downing is an outdoor writer and photographer in Montana with an environmental science journalism background. Her work can be found in Outdoors Unlimited, Bugle Magazine, Missoulian, Byline Magazine, Communique, MTPR online, UM Native News, National Wildlife Federation campaigns and more.