Jackson Hole’s West Bank along the Snake River is full of recreation that features the natural landscape. From fly fishing the river to riding horseback in Bridger-Teton National Forest, a day flashes by when spending it outdoors. Families love the small town, rural energy of the West Bank’s entertainment. Whether you’re visiting the area for a vacation getaway or looking for a more permanent home, try out these things to do on theWest Bank.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
The West Bank’s intimate communities give families prime access to all the amenities at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This ski resort comes to life in the winter, providing plenty of ways to enjoy a ride down the snowy mountain.
When the snow has given way to the blooming forest floor, families can visit the mountain resort’s serial adventure called The Ropes. This daring track towers 25 feet in the air, encouraging confident play while walking across balance beams, wobbly bridges, and cargo nets. Summer series events like Alive @ Five educate families about the native wildlife of Wyoming up close, while the Concerts on the Commons offer free music for picnickers.
Snake River
Residents living on the West Bank are right next to the meandering Snake River, a popular recreation spot. The river’s path starts in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, snaking its way through Jackson Lake and deep into Grand Teton National Park. Families can float down different sections of the current in the summer via inner tube, drift boat, or raft to soak in the mountain views and fleeting wildlife. Further downstream, the river rapids foam through the Snake River Canyon, offering daredevils a thrilling kayak or whitewater rafting adventure.
Families can also try their luck casting a line into streams and holes teeming with anglers. The excitement of hooking a fish is an exhilarating highlight to waiting leisurely along banks covered in reeds and grass.
Teton Pines Country Club
Teton Pines Country Club entertains families all days of the year. In the winter, this club opens its 16 kilometers of tended track to Nordic skiers. The double-wide trails are a forgiving place for beginner skiers to find their stride. Trails wind through the golf course’s rolling terrain, offering stunning views for visitors. Families looking for things to do on the West Bank can also hop into Teton Pines’ pool and hot tub. The eco-friendly saline purification is gentler on the skin, so children can play as long as they want.
Bridger-Teton National Forest
A massive destination for outdoor recreation on the West Bank is the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Spanning 3.4 million acres, the slice accessible to West Bank residents features crisp watersheds, all-encompassing wildlands, and diverse wildlife. The valley’s forests are made of three wilderness areas: the Bridger Wilderness, the Gros Ventre Wilderness, and the Teton Wilderness. Here are a few of the great spots and activities open to visitors at this national park.
Mill Iron Ranch
Families don’t have to worry about children getting tired halfway through a hike when riding horseback at Mill Iron Ranch. This long-standing locally owned business is nestled into the national forest along three sides, providing easy access to trails used for horseback rides in the summer and sleigh rides in the winter. Families with children seven years and above can start or end their journey into the lush mountainside with a freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Families with teens can also try their luck hunting elk, deer, and even bighorn sheep or black bears for those bold enough to try.
Grand Teton National Park
Those living in and around Jackson have access to the Snake River, a Grand Teton National Park gem. The freshwater current feeds the lush forest, forming a stark contrast against the looming rocky cliffside. Families have many options when hiking the 250+ miles of trail cutting through the landscape. Easy trails like the Lake Creek - Woodland Trail Loop lead hikers out to Phelps Lake. For the experienced hiker, the Forks of Cascade Canyon plunge into the Teton Range’s green valleys towards Jenny Lake.
Munger Mountain
Munger Mountain offers a full roster of outdoor activities that capture the interest of any type of family. Visitors can challenge themselves mountain biking up Big Munger Trail, which follows the mountain’s ridgeline to its peak. Munger Mountain’s seven trails are also open for hiking and backpacking, while horseback riding and OHV riding are open on select trails. Hunters can aim and shoot big game or set up camp for up to five days.
Jackson Hole Shootout
Visiting or resident families can watch a classic Wild West Display at the Jackson Hole Shootout on the Town Square. Performed six nights a week, this summer attraction reenacts a standoff between wily outlaws and rough-and-tumble cowboys. The dynamic display is full of loud bangs, smoke, and a dedicated performance of actors in impressive costumes. Families who attend will quickly see why the Jackson Hole Shootout is the longest-running shootout in the country.
Ready to have fun?
Jackson Hole is a natural playground that families visiting love. Areas like Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Teton Pines Country Club provide luxury amenities all ages can enjoy through the winter and summer months. The epic Bridger-Teton National Forest also presents families with a range of outdoor recreation opportunities, whether that be white water rafting, horseback riding, or a classic hike through the mountains. The luxury homes dotting the landscape feature some of the best views of the Tetons and Snake River. When you’re ready to start your home search, contact the experienced agents at Tom Evans & Ashley DiPrisco Real Estate for expert help.
