Last week, I shared my week in Jackson Hole, WY with H and his family. It was a magical trip, and I absolutely fell in love with the place. This was my first time traveling anywhere so wintery or mountainous, and if you find yourself in my same situation, I’ve created this beginner’s guide to ease your vacation planning.
Just to be clear, this was my first visit to Jackson Hole, so I am not an expert. But I did learn some things during this introductory adventure and hope my advice is helpful!
What to pack
- Down parka*
- Base layers (top / bottom)*
- Hat*
- Gloves / mittens*
- Ski goggles
- Scarf*
- Packable puffer jacket*
- Packable puffer vest*
- Snow boots*
- Comfy lodge boots
- Snow pants
- Neck gaiter*
- Several pairs of leggings / jeans*
- Several tops* / sweaters*
- Warm socks*
- Bathing suit*
- Skin products for dryness*
- Hand and toe warmers*
*I packed and used this linked product.
In my packing list, I linked the actual products I bought on my trip, all of which I recommend – as well as ones I wish I had. Here are a few tips:
- Ski goggles and snow pants would have been useful even though I didn’t ski! I would have really liked them when snowshoeing. Bring these for windy, snowy days and adventures.
- I have a bathing suit on my list in case you stay somewhere with a heated pool or hot tub, as we did.
- I recommend you bring skin products, like my lotion linked above, that are suitable for the dry climate in Wyoming.
- Any packable puffer clothes that you can bring will really help save space in your suitcase amongst your other bulky winter wear!
- I wore some comfy lodge boots, similar to the ones linked above (unfortunately, my exact ones sold out), and ended up wearing them constantly when in the hotel! I suggest getting some for maximum coziness.
- Layers are key. Make sure you’re always layered to keep warm.
- Wear two pairs of socks when spending time outside.
- Don’t overpack. I packed three scarves when I should have just packed one and brought far too many sweaters. You will – and should – rewear things.
- I wore hand and toe warmers whenever I was outside for an extended period of time, and they really helped.
Where to stay
Just so you have a better understanding of the area, Jackson Hole refers to the entire valley, which includes the town of Jackson and Teton Village, where we primarily spent our time. Jackson is such a charming place to walk around and shop, but I highly recommend staying somewhere in Teton Village if you’re able. This scenic area is the largest and most popular ski area in Wyoming. And even if you don’t ski, there are so many things to do! Just being in the Swiss-style Teton Village feels like a fairytale.
We stayed in the Four Seasons Jackson Hole, and it was a dream! Other hotels in Teton Village include Snake River Lodge & Spa, Hotel Terra, Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, and Continuum. You could also check out options on Airbnb and Vrbo.
What to do
There is so much to do in Jackson Hole, in addition to skiing! Some of my favorite activities included:
- Snowshoeing in Grand Teton National Park (We rented our snowshoes at JH Sports, located at the base of the Bridger Gondola.)
- Sleigh Ride with the National Elk Refuge (Bundle up!)
- Shopping in Jackson
- Ice skating in Teton Village
- Riding the tram to the top of Rendezvous Mountain
- Relaxing in the hot tubs and spa at the Four Seasons
- Watching the snow fall by the fire in our room
Just being in Jackson Hole in the winter with all that snow was idyllic, and it’s worth the visit, no matter how you spend your time! Go, and embrace the winter wonderland.
