Jackson Lake Tours and Activities

Jackson Lake which includes a lake or waterhole and mountains
Jackson Lake which includes mountains and a lake or waterhole
Jackson Lake featuring a lake or waterhole and fishing as well as a small group of people
Jackson Lake showing a lake or waterhole and mountains
Jackson Lake featuring wild flowers and a lake or waterhole


Go boating, hiking, fishing and camping on remote islands at this vast lake set in the shadow of the mountains of the Teton Range. 

Jackson Lake is a place to re-energize and dabble in recreational activities alongside the glorious mountain backdrop of Grand Teton National Park. Spend a day cruising the calm lake water, exploring nature trails, fishing for trout and visiting islands. Jackson Lake stretches for 15 miles (24 kilometers) at the base of the northern Teton Range. It was created by glacial erosion and is fed by the Snake River.

A great way to experience the lake is to rent a boat and explore at your own pace. From May to September, canoes, motorized boats and sea kayaks are available at Signal Mountain Lodge. Visitors often bring their own water skis for more thrills on the lake. Enjoy the jaw-dropping views in all directions, dominated by Doane Peak, Eagles Rest Peak and Rammell Mountain to the west.

Fishing is permitted during the summer with a license. Brown trout, cutthroat trout, salmon and pike all inhabit the water. Be sure to visit one of the 15 islands scattered around the lake. The biggest, Elk Island, is a great place to camp overnight, walk through conifer forests and relax on pebbly beaches. Advance reservations at the park’s visitor centers are recommended for the island’s campsite.

Just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk north of the lodge is the Chapel of the Sacred Heart, a quaint church built entirely of logs. Its waterfront setting offers more views of the mountains and their reflections in the glass-like water.

At Colter Bay Village, also on the water, the Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail accesses a broad beachfront and a scenic pathway around a forested peninsula. Rent a boat at Colter Bay Marina. The Heron Pond and Swan Lake Loop is another trail accessible from the village.

Find the lake about 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of both Jackson and Teton Village. The most convenient way to get here is via rented car. Use the free parking at Colter Bay Village and Signal Mountain Lodge.

Visit Jackson Lake year-round, with June to September being the most popular months. Pick up maps and purchase permits at Colter Bay Visitor Center.

Plan a trip to see Jackson Lake

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Anvil Hotel
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Best Lodging Options Near Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake Lodge

Jackson Lake Lodge

3.5 out of 5
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Colter Bay Village

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Jenny Lake Lodge

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Buffalo Valley Ranch

Buffalo Valley Ranch

2.5 out of 5
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Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

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3 out of 5
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Heart 6 Ranch

Heart 6 Ranch

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Grand Targhee Resort

Grand Targhee Resort

2.5 out of 5
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Hatchet Resort

Hatchet Resort

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Alpenhof

Alpenhof

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Jackson Lake

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Jackson Lake, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy an array of activities such as hiking along scenic trails, spotting diverse wildlife, and relaxing in picnic areas. The surrounding recreational parks offer perfect spots for outdoor excursions, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility in the heart of Wyoming.

Shopping

For a convenient shopping experience, visit Colter Bay Campground, just 3.2km from Jackson Lake. If you're up for a drive, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and Westbank Angler, located 29 and 41.8km away respectively, offer unique gifts and souvenirs with a mix of local charm.

Recreation

At Climbers Ranch, enjoy serene surroundings and rejuvenating hikes that promote relaxation. Teton Reserve Golf Course invites you to play amidst stunning landscapes, while Teton County-Jackson Recreation Center offers wellness classes and facilities for relaxation and fitness, ensuring a well-rounded experience in nature.

Adventure

At Grand Targhee Resort, located 24.1km from Jackson Lake, experience exhilarating skiing amidst stunning mountain views. For hikers, the Polecat Creek Loop Trail, 9.7km away, offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. The Blackfoot Ski Lift, also 24.1km from Jackson Lake, provides thrilling ski experiences for all levels.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Jackson Hole Playhouse and Pink Garter Theater, both located 46.7km from Jackson Lake. Enjoy captivating performances in a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for an entertaining evening out.

Find the best attractions near Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake in Moran, Wyoming, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery for every type of traveller. Explore the breathtaking Teton Mountains, visit the Jackson Lake Junction, and enjoy the views from the Jackson Lake Lodge. Families will find plenty of engaging activities, making it a perfect destination for creating lasting memories amidst the natural beauty of Wyoming.

  • Grand Teton National Park: This stunning national park offers breathtaking mountain scenery and abundant outdoor adventures. Hike through pristine landscapes and witness wildlife in their natural habitat, all while soaking in the majestic views of the Teton Range.
  • Colter Bay Marina: Located near Jackson Lake, this marina provides a fantastic beach experience with opportunities for boating and water activities. Enjoy the outdoors while taking in the picturesque surroundings and the chance for adventure on the water.
  • Colter Bay Visitor Center: A great stop for families, this visitor centre offers educational exhibits about the park’s natural history. Engage in outdoor activities and learn about the local ecosystem, making it a perfect blend of fun and learning.

Best time to go to Jackson Lake

The best time to visit Jackson Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Jackson Lake falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Jackson Lake falls in December, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January14.4°F (-9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February16.7°F (-8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March24.4°F (-4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April30.9°F (-0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
May40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
June52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July61.9°F (16.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High
August60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October36.1°F (2.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
November22.6°F (-5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December14.0°F (-10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake is a budget-friendly destination with free entry and nearby attractions like Colter Bay Marina and the Teton Range. To save, consider visiting in April or October to November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Tuesdays for the best rates. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, ensuring you find the best prices for your stay in this beautiful area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Jackson Lake are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Jackson Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Jackson Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Jackson Lake is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotel options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—by selecting the “Eco-certified” filter, you’ll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Jackson Lake with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.