by Kate Ready
There is plenty of hiking to be had under the watchful eye of the Tetons! (Check out our Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Jackson Hole.)
The weather in Wyoming, especially at altitude — the town of Jackson starts above 6,000 feet before you even step foot into the Tetons — can be unpredictable so we like our style with a whole lot of substance. Put your best hiking foot forward and conquer your sightseeing itinerary with a mix of high-tech fabrics and gear. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites below but check out our full Packing List for Summertime in Jackson Hole for even more tips and trends.
Don’t forget that our rugged terrain isn’t just a playground as conditions can change fast so you must be prepared in the backcountry. Always pack these essentials: food, water, first aid, warm clothes, light, fire, phone, extra layers and bear spray. Learn more at Backcountryzero.com.
Traveler Tip: Two skincare companies born and raised in Jackson Hole have an array of skin care products to address the dry climate out here and help you hydrate your skin beyond your wildest dreams: Alpyn Beauty and Trilipiderm. Visit their websites to check out the various all-natural, plant-based face and body creams, cleansers, serums, toners, exfoliators and toners. Both websites have a list of local stores where you can purchase products.
Get a Guide
One of our top Traveler Tips? Consider a guided experience if you’re new to our breathtaking valley. Because who wants to spend the time angling for parking on trails well-traveled?
• The Hole Hiking Experience: Hike with a naturalist who will take you off the beaten track from May to October. Interested in backpacking? Jackson Hole’s original nature tour company has you covered.
• Snow King Mountain: Explore a variety of classic trails surrounding Snow King Mountain on a full or half day guided hike.
• Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Avail yourself of several guided group or private hikes around Rendevous Mountain's alpine habitat.
What To Wear For Hiking
Just looking to pick up some gear? These are our top picks for what you need to conquer the Tetons comfortably and stylishly. We highly recommend a sun hoodie to protect from the strong UV rays. It’s also a fast-drying layer you can throw on if the wind begins to pick up. Amble over to Stio at their flagship location on Town Square for gear designed and tested in Jackson Hole.
Here are some of our favorite hiking "fashions:"
• Exofficio Nomad Shorts. Rigged with pockets and a UPF rating of 30+, these high-performance shorts will take you from the trail to the water and beyond. Stock up on layers, hunting and fishing gear, and more at JD High Country Outfitters, a Town Square mainstay.
• Arc’teryx Endorphin Solita Skort. This is sure to become your vacation favorite — a comfy, breezy skort of quick-wicking fabric with a UPF rating of 50+ to protect you from the elements. Find this and more hiking and camping gear at Teton Mountaineering. The store’s expert sales clerks can even help you plan your next adventure.
Now let’s talk shoes. If your dogs are barking, you likely aren’t soaking in the glorious views or blooming wildflowers. We rounded up our top two trail shoes below. Don’t let us catch you out there in sneakers. We promise the moose will point and laugh.
• Hoka One One Stinson Trail Shoes at Teton Village Sports, the oldest shop of its kind in Jackson Hole. You’ll find many top-performance brands, rentals and repairs.
• Hit the trail running with Salomon Speedcross 3 Trail Shoes. We chose them for their lightweight, super-grippy shoes suited for all conditions. This and other top footwear brands such as Scarpa, Teva and Vasque, can be found at JD High Country Outfitters.
Forgot something? For quality used and new gear and apparel priced way below retail price, Headwall Sports has everything you’ll need. It’s also Jackson Hole’s only sports consignment store. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. — and don’t forget to pick up some bear spray!
Hiking With a Pet?
Don’t leave Fido hanging. Teton Tails in downtown Jackson will gear out your pet. Our favorite? The Ruffwear Teton Leash and Pack. But of course, there are treats, pet food and even dog cowboy hats.
Please note that dogs are not allowed on unpaved trails in Grand Teton National and Yellowstone National Parks, but they are more than welcome in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, as well as on the extensive miles of Pathways that wind throughout the Jackson valley and into the park.
Looking for more pet-friendly tips? Check out Pet-Friendly Jackson Hole.
Check out our other tips for hiking in Jackson Hole:
• Grand Teton Hiking Trails
• Short Grand Teton National Park Hikes
• Bear Safety Tips
We can’t wait to see you out there!
Kate Ready is a freelance writer for Jackson Hole Traveler. In her off hours, she enjoys kayaking, cross-country skiing and attempting to bake bread. Kate recently received the statewide "Journalist of the Year" award from the Wyoming Press Association.
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