Jackson Hole is perhaps best known as the home of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, one of the premier family ski resorts in the west and named best ski area in North America by Forbes Magazine five years in a row. It’s obvious why: Jackson Hole receives an average annual snowfall of over 500 inches and offers kid’s ranch programs lead by top-notch instructors, acres of uncrowded slopes and a wide array of kid-friendly terrain and a stash park for skiers and boarders. After hitting the slopes, a multitude of fun and unique activities will keep the whole family engaged and inspired.
Courtesy of Jackson Hole Iditarod Sled Dog Tours
Sled Dog Tour
This incredible activity offers a unique way to travel over snow and experience a new perspective of Jackson Hole’s winter landscape. Guests also have the once in a lifetime opportunity to run their own sleds. The kids will love meeting the team of affectionate and friendly dogs who are also incredible athletes with unimaginable strength and stamina. In fact, many of the dogs have competed (and won) international Iditarod races. Choose from a half-day or full-day trip, which both include warm beverages and hearty snacks. Full-day trips incorporate a relaxing soak in Granite Hot Springs, so remember to bring a swim suit.
Courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride/National Museum of Wildlife Art
The entire family will enjoy a cozy, horse-drawn sleigh ride while getting up close and personal with Jackson Hole’s resident herd of elk, numbering in the thousands. The National Elf Refuge was created in 1912 to protect and preserve the Jackson Elk Herd. In addition to elk, guests might get lucky and see bighorn sheep, moose, wolves, coyotes, pronghorn antelope and bald or golden eagles. After the sleigh ride, a visit to the family-friendly National Museum of Wildlife Art is a must with its children’s discovery gallery, interactive artist’s studio and animal puppet theater.
Yellowstone Winter Expeditions
Spend a day touring the wonders of spectacular Yellowstone in a custom-designed, safari-style snow coach with Yellowstone Winter Expeditions. Search for wildlife such as moose, bison and wolves while exploring the unique history and geology of the world’s first national park. A full day trip extends all the way to Old Faithful.
Courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Become a Junior Ranger at Grand Teton National Park
Visit any park visitor’s center and discover what it takes to be a park ranger while earning a park ranger badge. The Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center remains open starting from early March through the end of October. Kids are sure to love Dornan’s Pizza, located just a few steps from the visitor center. It’s open year-round and offers great food with impressive views of the Tetons.
Jackson Hole Children’s Museum
Located just a few steps from the Jackson town square, this museum welcomes locals and visitors alike to examine the world through interactive, hands-on rotating exhibits and daily educational programs. The museum is located within walking distance of many family-friendly restaurants as well as the kids’ favorite Yippy I-O Candy shop and the Jackson Hole Toy Store.
Courtesy of Snow King Mountain Resort
Cowboy Coaster and Tube Park at Snow King Mountain
The Cowboy Coaster takes riders up Snow King Mountain, then winds down the mountain with twists, turns and incredible views providing an exhilarating ride for all. Follow up the roller coaster experience with snow tubing at King Tubes, another fun way to enjoy the snow and earn a hot chocolate and s’mores break around the fire.
For luxury rental homes, property management, and care-taking services in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, visit The Clear Creek Group.