Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Yellowstone National Park offer a unique combination of world-class skiing and natural wonders. Located approximately 57 miles apart, these destinations provide year-round adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. From the steep slopes of Jackson Hole to the geothermal features of Yellowstone, visitors can experience diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and thrilling activities in both winter and summer seasons.
What is the Distance Between Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Yellowstone National Park?
The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is situated about 57 miles from the south entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This journey typically takes around 1.25 hours by car. Visitors have two main route options:
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Scenic Route: Take the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway, which is a two-hour drive north from Jackson, WY. This route passes through Grand Teton National Park, offering numerous scenic turnouts and wildlife viewing opportunities.
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Direct Route: Use Highway 33 and Highway 20, which can save about 20-30 minutes under normal conditions but may involve construction delays.
What Skiing Options Does Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Offer?
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is renowned for its exceptional skiing opportunities:
- Terrain: Over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain
- Average Snowfall: 459 inches per year
- Season: Late November to early April
- Operating Hours: Typically 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Trail Difficulty Breakdown
| Difficulty Level | Percentage of Trails |
|---|---|
| Beginner | 10% |
| Intermediate | 40% |
| Advanced | 50% |
Lift Ticket Pricing
Lift ticket prices vary by season and type:
– Single-day adult lift ticket: $150 to $200+
– Multi-day passes and season passes are also available
What Unique Skiing Events Does Jackson Hole Host?
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is home to several exciting skiing events:
- Jackson Hole Rendezvous Festival
- Features live music
- Skiing competitions
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Various winter activities
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Kings and Queens of Corbet’s Competition
- Showcases extreme skiing skills
- Attracts professional and amateur skiers worldwide
How Can Visitors Experience Yellowstone Wildlife from Jackson Hole?
Wildlife tours from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone offer unforgettable experiences:
- Tour Lengths: Range from full-day to multi-day excursions
- Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to see elk, moose, bison, bears, and wolves
- Costs: $100 to $300+ per person per day
- Group Sizes: Usually limited to 6-12 people for a personalized experience
Tour Booking Tips
- Make reservations in advance, especially during peak season
- Ensure you have a valid Yellowstone National Park pass
- Dress in layers and bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing
What Summer Activities Are Available in Jackson Hole?
Jackson Hole transforms into a summer paradise with numerous activities:
- Events
- Jackson Hole Rodeo
- Grand Teton Music Festival
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Fall Arts Festival
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Outdoor Adventures
- Guided hiking tours
- Whitewater rafting on Snake River (Class II and III rapids)
- Wildlife viewing excursions
Popular Hiking Trails
- String Lake Loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 3.8 miles
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Features: Lake views, mountain scenery
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Teton Crest Trail
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Length: 40+ miles (can be done in sections)
- Features: High-altitude trekking, panoramic views
What Are the Rental Costs for Summer Equipment?
For summer activities, visitors can rent various equipment:
- Bike Rentals: $40 to $80 per day
- Kayak Rentals: $20 to $50 per hour or $40 to $80 per day
- Stand-Up Paddleboard Rentals: Similar pricing to kayaks
How Much Does It Cost to Enter Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park entrance fees:
- 7-day pass: $35 per vehicle
- Annual pass: $70 (valid for both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks)
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (valid for all national parks for one year)
By combining the thrilling slopes of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort with the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park, visitors can create an unforgettable year-round adventure in the heart of the American West.