If you’re considering a move to Jackson Hole, you certainly aren’t alone—this beautiful valley has an undeniable draw and stunning beauty that makes everyone who visits want to stay forever.
Jackson Hole is most commonly known for winter ski trips and hiking through Grand Teton National Park. People often visit to commune with the peaceful outdoors and connect with the thriving arts scene, but beneath this well-known surface, there’s so much more this incredible community has to offer.
Aside from the world-renowned natural beauty, this idyllic Wyoming town has a unique culture and some of the region’s absolute best variety of luxury homes and stunning, construction-ready properties for sale.
If you’re curious about how you might acclimate to life in Jackson Hole, we created this quick guide to help you find your way and get the absolute most out of living in this incredible place.
Climate and Scenery
Picture-Perfect Seasons
Jackson Hole is gorgeous year-round. From temperate summers perfect for exploring the outdoors to snow-laden winters full of skiing, snowboarding, and crackling fires, the distinct seasons are part of the Valley’s character thanks to its unique microclimate.
Mountain Vistas
The Valley is nestled between the Grand Teton and Gros Ventre Mountain Ranges, and the ever-present mountain view is one of the unforgettable signatures of life in the region. The snow-capped peaks tower above the small towns and ranches of the Valley—a constant reminder of the grand natural beauty surrounding you.
Ranch Lifestyle
The area has a rich history among trappers and mountain men as well as ranchers. That legacy is preserved today in the quiet, private lifestyles enjoyed by many residents on spacious plots of land that provide an authentic experience of the American West.
Flora and Fauna
The valley is rich in biodiversity to be appreciated by lovers of plants and wildlife. Bald eagles, moose, bison, elk, and river otters are just a few of the incredible animals you can spot on a given day, plus a wide range of trees, wildflowers, and native plants to see.
Sports and Recreation
World-Class Skiing
If you want to live in Jackson Hole, you might already know that it’s considered one of the world’s best skiing destinations. If you’ve never hopped on a pair of skis, though, it’s the perfect place to give it a try. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is incredibly popular and offers lessons and slopes to accommodate a variety of skill levels. You can also make a trip to the Snow King Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, or book a room at a variety of local luxury lodges with easy access to the slopes.
Hiking and Trails
From gentle hikes to mountain top treks, there are nearly endless ways for you to explore the outdoors and get a better look at some of Jackson Hole’s best views. One of the most popular is Hidden Falls and Cascade Canyon, which leads you to a gorgeous waterfall carved into the mountains. Other incredible options include Teton Pass and Two Ocean Lake.
Fishing
Fly-fishing is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Jackson Hole. You can book a chartered trip along lakes and rivers or cast out on your own in the quiet serenity of the Valley’s endless expanse.
Arts and Culture
Rich History
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Town Square: Jackson’s town square is right where it was for many, many years— although it looks a bit different now, the area still serves as a reminder of the town's historic roots.
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Jackson Hole Airport: you might expect such a pristine, natural setting to be isolated from the world, but that’s not the case. Jackson Hole can be flown into directly from a number of airports across the U.S., and the Jackson Hole Airport is historically significant because it’s the only airport situated entirely within a National Park.
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Snow King Resort: this aforementioned winter sports destination is notable not just for its popularity today but also because it was the very first ski resort in all of Wyoming.
Festivals and Events
- Fall Arts Festival: a renowned, multi-day event that draws artists from around the world to gain inspiration and share their work with the community in the Valley’s gorgeous surroundings.
- Grand Teton Music Festival: known for exhilarating classical music experiences, this beloved festival offers incredible concerts from some of the best musicians right in Jackson Hole.
- Old West Days: this 10-day festival celebrates Jackson Hole’s roots as a crucial part of the Old American West and features a range of experiences and activities to entertain, educate, and honor the region’s legacy.
- Jackson Hole Rodeo: the rodeo is one of the most lively, beloved events in town, which runs for most of the summer. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their best Western wear and get into the local spirit.
Museums and Galleries
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Center for the Arts: this space is a hub for all of those artistically inclined and a major part of the region’s thriving creativity. You’ll find regular performances and concerts held here, as well as exhibitions, classes, and more to help foster the community’s artistic spirit.
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Gallery Wild: this unique collection of art is inspired by the natural beauty of the region. All of the works for sale feature plants, wildlife, landscapes, and more that reflect the gorgeous setting of Wyoming and the west.
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Horizon Fine Art Gallery: Horizon is known for its eclectic collection of art for sale, which includes paintings, photos, dimension art, sculpture, jewelry, and much more. You’ll find the work of many local artists and notable creators from other parts of the world.
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National Museum of Wildlife Art: aside from the gorgeous architecture of the museum itself, it’s a great place to visit on a quiet day in Jackson Hole thanks to its unique collection of art that features stunning depictions of wildlife.
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MADE: this charming shop features the work of local craftspeople and artists with an emphasis on items that make unique gifts and cherished additions to your home.
Schools and Education
Public Schools
There is a small selection of great public schools in town, including Jackson Elementary School, Jackson Hole Middle School, and Summit High School.
Private Schools
There are also private schooling options, which include Jackson Hole Christian Academy and Jackson Hole Community School.
Community Education
Residents of all ages have access to incredible education opportunities. These range from classes on art, music, and dance offered by local collectives to skiing, fishing, survival skills, and a range of other valuable knowledge.
Choosing Your Community
Knowing everything Jackson Hole can offer is great—but the most important thing is knowing your options of where to put down roots.
Teton Village
Primarily a skiing destination, Teton Village gives you easy access to the best of a mountainside lifestyle—and not just the natural parts. You’ll also find high-end resorts with luxury amenities, gourmet dining, and much more to love.
Star Valley
Star Valley is a more rural, quiet neighboring town to Jackson, and it’s beloved by residents for offering an authentic piece of Wyoming living. If you want to be away from the bustle of the slopes and settle into the region’s quiet landscape, this is the perfect place to call home.
Town of Jackson
The Town of Jackson is the hub of the Valley, home to many of its best restaurants, shops, and destinations. The arts scene is thriving and the local creativity is on constant display at beautiful galleries and boutiques. There’s no better place to take a stroll and pick up your morning coffee, or head out for a night of music and hand-crafted cocktails with friends.
West of Jackson
Situated directly between Jackson and Teton Village, West of Jackson is one of the most conveniently located of the valley’s regions. You’ll find luxury homes on sprawling plots of land that give residents the ability to head into town for a meal or shopping run just as easily as driving up to the mountains to spend a day on the slopes.
North of Jackson
North of Jackson is known for being a quiet, open expanse that’s perfect for those who want to get away from it all. If you’re seeking immersion in the natural surroundings, this is a great choice.
South of Jackson
South of Jackson is a somewhat more developed section of the valley that’s most well known for being home to many great country clubs, golf courses, and suburban-style luxury developments.
Plan Your Move the Right Way
There’s so much to love about Jackson Hole—so why wait to experience everything it has to offer?
If the peace, adventure, and beauty of Jackson Hole is calling your name, contact Colby Murphy today. His expertise on luxury homes for sale in Jackson and the many surrounding communities will make finding your forever home effortless.
