Destination, Events

Why a Visit To Jackson Hole in May and June Should be At The Top of Your Bucket List

why visit jackson hole in spring

“Epic” gets thrown around frequently these days, but what does it really mean?

epic

Extending beyond the usual or ordinary especially in size or scope – Merriam-Webster

Epic is often used to describe Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and for good reason. Jackson Hole most certainly extends beyond the usual or ordinary in a variety of ways. Most commonly associated with winter sports ranging from common to extreme, Jackson Hole is an outdoor junkie’s playground, but not just in winter – all year long.

Why Visit Jackson Hole In Spring

Visiting Jackson Hole is winter is undoubtedly awesome, but ask any local and they’ll tell you May and June are also epic months to visit. Wondering why? Here are a few compelling reasons:

Serene and Refreshed Energy

why visit jackson hole in springDuring the high tide of winter tourism, Jackson Hole is bursting with activity and people. Once ski season is over a calm energy sets in. As the wildflowers begin to bloom and the snow turns into rushing rivers, the entire area bursts into life, and yet the high tide of summer tourism is still at bay. Wildlife awakens from hibernation and seclusion, and those who do visit are treated to a unique and exciting time in Jackson Hole.

The Re-Opening of Two Great National Parks

Perfectly poised between of our nation’s greatest national parks – Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks – Jackson Hole is a wildlife paradise. Both national parks are extremely popular amongst summer vacationers and can become crowded in July and August. The parks are open year-round, but some of the main roads in and out are closed during winter time, and only re-open again in May, making May the perfect month to visit. If you’re looking to explore the national parks at your leisure, without bumping into many other visitors, then definitely plan a trip for May!

Book Now & Save 30% Off May Stays with Snow King Hotel!

Elk Fest

Perhaps one of the most unique festivals in the country, the annual Elk Fest has become quite the event in Jackson Hole. Basically, thousands of Elk spend the beginning winter months in Jackson Hole, and then in April begin to migrate to higher grounds. Before migrating, they shed their antlers. Come May, when the snow begins to melt and the ground thaws, various Boy Scout troops go out and search for the antlers. Elk Fest is an entire weekend of celebrations, but the main event is the elk antler auction, which attracts people from all over the country.

Old West Days

kathy_erickson_owd_2007_248Often times referred to as “The Last of The Old West,” Jackson Hole proudly celebrates its western culture annually over Memorial Day weekend at the Old West Days Festival. This year marks the 37th Old West Days happening from May 26 – 29th. Live music, theatrical entertainment, arts and crafts, delicious food, rodeo events, and more await enthusiastic festival goers.

Transition Into Spring and Summer Adventures

As May sets in the snow is melting, or has already melted completely, and a whole new set of adventures are readily available. Mountain biking season begins, and in May the trails are fresh and clear, ready to be explored. White water river rafting down the Snake River is at it’s best, as well as:

  • Climbing (The Tetons are especially great)
  • Fly fishing – extremely popular in Jackson Hole
  • Paraglide
  • Horseback riding
  • Canoeing
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Hiking

Snow King Mountain TreeTop Adventure Opens!

The Swiss Family Robinson meets the X-Games and thus forms Snow King Mountain TreeTop Adventure. For anyone who loves adrenaline and zip lining, it’s a Shangri-la. Closed during the winter season, the adventure will re-open this year on May 26th.

Maybe you’ve been to Jackson Hole in the winter, summer, or fall before, but never in the spring/summer shoulder season. Maybe you’ve never been to Jackson Hole at all! Either way, visiting in May or June will be nothing short of epic. Getting excited?! You should be! One other perk we haven’t mentioned is the lower cost of visiting during this time. Because tourism is low in May and June, the hotel room rates are correspondingly lower. You can stay in the center of all the action at Snow King Hotel for less than you might during the height of winter or summer. Sound like an epic deal? It is! You can book your stay anytime, right here.

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