As the snow begins to recede and temperatures rise, Jackson Hole reveals an entirely different side of itself. The mountain town slowly transitions into a quieter, greener landscape. Ski season winds down, trails reopen, and local businesses prepare for the summer wave. This time of year balances winter leftovers and early summer opportunities, with fewer crowds and easier access to local highlights.
Here are eight distinct spring activities in Jackson Hole WY that let you experience the region as it emerges from winter.
Explore the National Elk Refuge
The National Elk Refuge sits just northeast of downtown Jackson and plays a central role in the area's seasonal changes. In early spring, large herds of elk still linger in the refuge as they gradually return to higher elevations. This is one of the last chances to see them up close before they migrate. You can spot them from pull-offs along Refuge Road or walk near the visitor center for better views.
Bird activity increases significantly during this season. Waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds begin to populate the area. The marshes and meadows thaw and come alive with color. Depending on the snowpack, the walking paths are usually accessible by April. It’s a good time to bring binoculars and take advantage of clear skies and mild temperatures.
Visit Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park begins opening up slowly in the spring. While the higher elevation trails may still hold snow, lower elevation routes like Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake typically become accessible earlier. These trails offer views of the snowcapped peaks without requiring technical gear. The roads through the park also reopen in phases, making it easier to drive and explore.
The lakes and rivers start to thaw, creating calm, reflective surfaces ideal for photography. Moose and bison become more visible in the open areas around the park, especially near Willow Flats and Antelope Flats. Spring offers a mix of winter scenery and early green growth, with fewer vehicles on the road and minimal wait times at park entrances.
Walk Town Square and Local Art Galleries
Jackson’s downtown Town Square shifts gears in the spring. As the snow melts off the boardwalks and rooftops, shops and galleries reopen for the shoulder season. Art lovers can browse local galleries like Altamira Fine Art and the Tayloe Piggott Gallery, where regional artists showcase their work in painting, sculpture, and photography.
Cafés and restaurants begin adjusting their menus to reflect the change in season. Ice cream shops and patios reopen, and it's easier to find seating without a wait. The square itself, known for its antler arches, becomes a popular meeting place for casual walks and low-key afternoons. Parking is easier to find during spring, which makes it more convenient for unplanned stops.
Scenic Drives through Snake River Canyon
Snake River Canyon offers a peaceful driving route in spring. The snow along the canyon walls melts, revealing rock formations and hidden streams. You can follow U.S. Highway 89 south toward Alpine, passing scenic overlooks, riverside pull-offs, and occasional wildlife sightings.
The Snake River runs high with snowmelt, making it visually impressive as it carves its way through the canyon. Fly fishing starts to pick up as water levels stabilize. You can also stop at rest areas or public access sites to take short walks, snap photos, or simply enjoy the change in terrain.
Spring Skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resorte
Spring skiing offers a different experience compared to peak winter. By March and April, temperatures rise enough to soften the snow by midday, allowing for smoother runs. Depending on snow conditions, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort typically keeps lifts running into early April.
The atmosphere on the slopes is more relaxed this time of year. Fewer skiers mean shorter lines, and many locals take advantage of the warm afternoons to get in late-season laps. Après-ski spots at the base, like The Spur and RPK 3, stay open and are less crowded, making it easier to unwind. Spring skiing sessions are usually more about soaking up sun and carving mellow runs than tackling tough terrain.
Wildlife Watching in Bridger-Teton National Forest
Bridger-Teton National Forest surrounds the Jackson area and offers early access to wildlife watching. As the snow clears, animals become more active and move to lower elevations. The forest's open spaces provide excellent spots for observing moose, mule deer, and even bears emerging from hibernation.
You can drive into areas like Gros Ventre Road or Flat Creek, which offer expansive landscape views and good chances to see wildlife near the road. Trails start to dry out and become passable by late spring, especially in the southern sections of the forest. Binoculars and a camera are handy; you won’t need a permit for most short visits.
Soak in Granite Hot Springs
Granite Hot Springs, located south of Jackson near Hoback Junction, is open through the spring months, offering warm water and open air surrounded by mountain scenery. Access is easier after mid-April once snowmobiles are no longer required. The 10-mile road to the springs typically reopens to vehicle traffic later in the spring, depending on snow melt.
The water stays at a consistent temperature of about 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it comfortable even on cool spring days. The springs have picnic tables, changing rooms, and simple facilities, so it’s easy to spend a couple of hours without much planning. Reservations are not required in the spring, and the pools are usually less crowded than during winter or summer peaks.
Spring Fly Fishing on the Snake River
Fly fishing on the Snake River improves significantly during the spring thaw. As snow melts and river levels shift, trout begin feeding more actively. Guided trips become available again, and local outfitters often offer spring discounts for half-day or full-day excursions.
Common access points include South Park Bridge, Wilson Bridge, and the stretches near Moose Junction. Anglers target cutthroat and brown trout using dry flies and nymphs, depending on water clarity and time of day. Wading can be difficult early in the season, but drift boat fishing becomes more viable as spring progresses.
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