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

Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Gravity Haus Jackson Hole

per person

Jun. 12 - Jun. 18

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Toronto (YYZ) to Jackson Hole (JAC)

7.6/10 Good! (628 reviews)

The perimeter of this property was dirty, not well kept. Lots of dark areas. Management was told I was in Reception to check in, they were literally sitting 10 feet from me and didn't make any effort to greet or assist. I waited about 10 minutes before Staff returned from break. She was very pleasant. There was a bowl with old fruit at reception. Why?

Reviewed on Apr. 14, 2024

Castle in the Sky Unit X

per person

Jul. 6 - Jul. 12

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Vancouver (YVR) to Jackson Hole (JAC)

8.6/10 Excellent! (4 reviews)

Lake View Suites

per person

Jun. 12 - Jun. 18

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Toronto (YYZ) to Jackson Hole (JAC)

8.6/10 Excellent! (581 reviews)

Great location. A little out of town in a beautiful, quiet setting on the lake.

Reviewed on Nov. 11, 2023

Popular places to visit

Colter Bay Visitor Center

Join ranger-led programs, such as hikes and wildlife tours, and peruse an exhibit of Native American art at this information center.

Colter Bay Marina

4/5(1 review)

Rent a boat to explore Jackson Lake, gaze in awe at the snow-capped peaks of the Teton Range and follow trails to beaches and lookouts.

Jackson Lake Lodge

Learn about the local history of Moran when you spend time at Jackson Lake Lodge. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

Chapel of the Sacred Heart

Sitting peacefully on the banks of Jackson Lake, this log church offers views of the soaring peaks of Grand Teton National Park.

Signal Mountain

Drive, hike or bike to one of the most popular viewpoints in the park to observe majestic mountains and a serene lake.

Oxbow Bend

4/5(2 reviews)

This natural bend in the Snake River is the setting for superb photography and wildlife spotting opportunities. Capture an image of Mount Moran in the background.