Nestled in the heart of the Jackson Hole Valley, Jackson, Wyoming, is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the American West. Known for its rugged beauty, wildlife-rich ecosystems, and proximity to national parks, Jackson also has a rich and colorful history that spans frontier hardship, conservation triumphs, and cultural preservation.

History of Jackson, Wyoming

The region that is now Jackson was originally inhabited by Native American tribes including the Shoshone, Crow, Blackfeet, and Bannock. These Indigenous peoples hunted game in the valley and revered the surrounding mountains, especially the towering Teton Range, which formed a natural and sacred barrier to the west.

By the early 1800s, mountain men and fur trappers—such as John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition—ventured into the area. Jackson Hole (the term “hole” was commonly used to describe a valley surrounded by mountains) became a key site for the fur trade, with trappers gathering for annual rendezvous to exchange pelts and supplies. The town of Jackson itself was named after one such trapper, David Edward “Davy” Jackson, who operated in the area during the 1820s.

In the late 19th century, as the fur trade declined, ranchers and homesteaders began to settle the valley, drawn by its fertile land and abundance of natural resources. Harsh winters, however, made life difficult, and the town’s residents quickly learned the value of cooperation and self-reliance.

Jackson officially became a town in 1914. It was notably progressive from its early days: in 1920, it elected an all-woman town council—the first of its kind in the United States. Meanwhile, the surrounding natural beauty attracted artists, photographers, and early conservationists who began advocating for preservation. This led to the establishment of Grand Teton National Park in 1929, followed by Jackson Hole National Monument in 1943.

Throughout the 20th century, Jackson evolved from a remote ranching town into a vibrant destination for tourism, skiing, wildlife safaris, and cultural exploration. Despite its growing popularity, the town has carefully maintained its Western charm and commitment to conservation.

Top 25 Attractions in Jackson, Wyoming

1. Jackson Town Square – Famous for its elk antler arches, this central gathering place is lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, capturing the essence of Western culture.

2. National Elk Refuge – Home to thousands of wintering elk, visitors can take sleigh rides through the refuge for an up-close experience with wildlife.

3. Snow King Mountain Resort – Located within Jackson, Snow King offers skiing, alpine slides, ziplining, and panoramic views of the valley.

4. Jackson Hole Rodeo – A summer staple since the 1890s, this rodeo showcases bull riding, barrel racing, and traditional cowboy sports.

5. Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum – Offers fascinating exhibits on Native American cultures, trappers, and settlers who shaped the region.

6. Wildlife Safari Tours – Expert-guided tours that venture into Grand Teton and Yellowstone for sightings of bears, wolves, bison, and more.

7. Center for the Arts – A cultural hub hosting theater performances, concerts, film screenings, and art exhibitions.

8. National Museum of Wildlife Art – Set on a bluff overlooking the National Elk Refuge, the museum features over 5,000 works by renowned artists like Carl Rungius and Georgia O’Keeffe.

9. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar – An iconic Western saloon with saddle barstools, live country music, and rich history.

10. Teton Raptor Center – Located nearby in Wilson, this facility rehabilitates birds of prey and offers educational programs.

11. Laurance Rockefeller Preserve – A serene area of Grand Teton National Park dedicated to quiet reflection and nature immersion.

12. Granite Hot Springs – Nestled in the Gros Ventre Mountains, these natural hot springs provide a relaxing soak surrounded by wilderness.

13. Astoria Hot Springs Park – A newly re-opened hot spring complex south of Jackson offering multiple pools along the Snake River.

14. Gros Ventre Wilderness – Offers incredible hiking, horseback riding, and solitude in a pristine mountainous landscape.

15. Phil Baux Park and Climbing Walls – A great spot for families with bouldering walls, playgrounds, and access to hiking trails.

16. Jackson Hole Playhouse – Wyoming’s oldest professional theater, offering dinner theater with Western flair.

17. Cache Creek Trailhead – A popular in-town trail system for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

18. Flat Creek Wetlands – A tranquil boardwalk loop for birdwatching and enjoying the valley’s ecosystem.

19. Images of Nature Gallery – Featuring the photography of Thomas Mangelsen, showcasing wildlife and natural scenes from Jackson Hole and beyond.

20. Town Hill (Summit Trail) – Offers scenic hiking directly from Jackson’s edge to the summit of Snow King Mountain.

21. Jackson Hole Children’s Museum – Interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and learning among young visitors.

22. Astoria Bridge and Boat Launch – A scenic Snake River access point ideal for rafting, fishing, and wildlife observation.

23. Jackson Farmers Market – Held in summer months, featuring local produce, crafts, and live music at the base of Snow King.

24. Rendezvous Park (R Park) – A community-built nature park offering walking trails, art installations, and Snake River access.

25. Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row – Just outside of Jackson, this scenic area features historic homesteads set against the dramatic Tetons, popular among photographers.

Jackson, Wyoming, represents a rare harmony between the rustic past and an inspired future. Whether you’re drawn by its historical roots, the call of adventure, or a desire for serenity amid unspoiled nature, Jackson offers a richly rewarding experience in every season.