Sometimes the best Jackson days don't involve skis at all. I know - sounds nuts in a town where powder days are nearly religious holidays. But stay with me...

After three days of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram runs, your legs may stage a full-on rebellion. It's time to take a day off. Besides, some of the valley's most fun adventures start with "I decided to try something different..."

Start with Something Wild

Snowshoeing in Grand Teton National Park

Want to hear the sound of perfect silence? Strap on some snowshoes and venture into Grand Teton National Park with an expert naturalist guide. Cross-country skiing is another fantastic way to explore the park’s winter landscapes, with options for all skill levels and guided tours available. Cross country skis are available for rent, offering a unique means to explore the area's stunning wilderness.  Or try a guided tour and be led through snowy meadows and forests while learning about the park’s wildlife and geology.

The Taggart Lake trail is particularly magical - imagine having a frozen alpine lake all to yourself, with the Tetons towering above. Beginner-friendly and all gear is provided.

Discover guided snowshoe tours and book your winter adventure

Wildlife Tours That'll Leave You Speechless

Imagine being bundled up in a warm snow coach, camera ready, as your guide points out a bison herd in the distance. Winter wildlife tours take you deep into Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park, where moose, wolves, and bison roam against a backdrop that looks like a living Christmas card. The Bridger-Teton National Forest is another prime location for winter wildlife tours. Local tip: Book an early morning tour when the animals are most active and the light is pure photography gold.

Explore Jackson Hole's winter guided tours.

Jackson Hole Sled Dog Adventures

There’s nothing like being introduced to your dog team for the first time on a Jackson Hole dog sled tour. These exciting and adventurous dog sledding tours are led by professional mushers and their energetic teams of dogs. They will whisk you through pristine backcountry trails, their enthusiasm contagious. Choose between half-day adventures or book the full-day tour that includes lunch in a remote warming hut. Trust me, hot soup never tasted so good!

Check out Jackson Hole’s Sled Dog Adventures

Fat Bike Tours: A Different Way to Exercise

Don't let the snow stop you from taking a spin! Fat bike tours are the latest winter craze in Jackson Hole, and once you try those oversized tires on groomed snow, you'll understand why. Ride through Grand Teton National Park on beginner-friendly routes with a guided tour, or more advanced riders can rent and ride with the locals up Cache Creek.

Rent or Book Your Fat Bike Tour

Take a Piece of Jackson Hole with You: Wildlife Photography Tours

Whether you're wielding a smartphone or pro gear, Jackson Hole's winter photography expeditions will take you to spots that'll make your jaw drop. Learn photography skills from professional photographers who know the best angles for vistas and wildlife. You'll come away with images that'll make you look like a pro. Check out  Winter Wildlife Tours.

Family Fun at Snow King Mountain

Snow Tubing Adventures

Looking for laughs? Head to Snow King's tubing park, where you can zip down perfectly groomed lanes without any hiking required - their magic carpet lift does all the work! The best part? You can ride single tubes or link up with friends for a group adventure. Night tubing is even more fun.

The Cowboy Coaster Thrill

Even in winter, Snow King's Cowboy Coaster delivers family fun. This mountain coaster twists and turns through 3,295 feet of track, with speeds up to 25 mph! Don't let the cold stop you - each cart has a clear shield to keep you comfortable as you zip through the forest.

Learn more about Snow King's winter activities here.

Horsedrawn Adventures

Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides: A Jackson Classic

Ever sat eye-to-eye with a bull elk sporting antlers taller than you? Get ready for a Jackson Hole winter classic that’ll have you pinching yourself. Hop aboard a horse-drawn sleigh ride, a unique winter activity that allows visitors to explore scenic landscapes, and glide right into the heart of the National Elk Refuge, where thousands of elk gather each winter.

These majestic creatures, some sporting antlers spanning six feet wide, go about their daily routines as if you’re just part of the scenery. Your guide knows the regulars by name and their stories - like Brutus, the massive bull who shows up in the same spot every year, or Luna, the cow elk with the distinctive white patch on her shoulder. Book the afternoon tour for the best light and smaller crowds. After your ride stop for lunch at the National Museum of Wildlife Art cafe for delicious sandwiches and great views. See more about this magnificent museum below.

Sleigh rides at Little Jennie Ranch.  

Here’s the winter experience you didn’t know you needed: A horse-drawn sleigh carries you through pristine snow to a historic cabin the Gros Ventre River Ranch.  This enchanting journey through a winter wonderland allows visitors of every age to experience the beautiful snowy landscape.

Little Jennie Ranch has created something truly special here - imagine warming up by a crackling fire, savoring gourmet Dutch oven delicacies, and listening to tales of the Old West while the snow gently falls outside.

Visit Jackson Hole Sleigh Rides.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into Local Heritage

Explore the National Museum of Wildlife Art

Jackson Hole is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a treasure trove of cultural experiences that showcase the region’s rich heritage. One of the must-visit attractions is the National Museum of Wildlife Art, perched on a hillside overlooking the National Elk Refuge. This world-class museum boasts an impressive collection of over 5,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and prints that celebrate wildlife from around the globe.

As you step into the museum, you’ll be greeted by masterpieces from renowned artists like Robert Bateman, Carl Rungius, and John James Audubon. The museum’s architecture is designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding winter landscape.

The museum isn’t just about admiring art; it’s also a hub for learning and creativity. Participate in guided tours to gain deeper insights into the artworks and the stories behind them. For those feeling inspired, the museum offers hands-on art classes suitable for all ages. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious beginner, there’s something here to spark your creativity.

After soaking in the art, take a leisurely stroll around the museum grounds. The views of the National Elk Refuge and the Teton Range are simply stunning, especially when blanketed in snow. If you’re eager to delve further into local history, the nearby Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region’s past. Whether you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the National Museum of Wildlife Art is a must-visit destination in Jackson Hole. It’s a perfect way to spend a rest day, surrounded by the beauty and wonder of wildlife art in the heart of the American West.

The Ultimate Snowmobile Adventure

Choose your own adventure: Blast through pristine powder fields in Togwotee Pass, home to some of the best snowmobiling in North America, or embark on an epic journey to Yellowstone's National Park's geothermal wonderland. Full-day tours cater to every skill level, from first-timers to experienced riders.

Togwotee offers 600 miles of groomed trails and endless powder bowls, while the Yellowstone expedition lets you experience the park's winter magic when it's closed to regular vehicles. Both include expert guides, top-of-the-line machines, and the kind of stories you'll be telling for years.

Discover Jackson Hole Snowmobiling options for every skill level

R&R: Sometimes the Best Adventure is No Adventure at All

Who says every Jackson Hole day needs an adrenaline rush? Sometimes the best mountain memories start with absolutely nothing on your schedule.

Mountain Luxury

Many of Jackson’s luxury hotels offer world-class spa services, heated pools with mountain views, and hot tubs perfect for stargazing. Order room service, grab that book you’ve been meaning to read, and let the mountains work their magic. After relaxing, explore downtown Jackson for dining and shopping

Jackson Town Square Discoveries

When you’re properly pampered, mosey into downtown Jackson Hole, a vibrant hub for winter activities, shopping and nightlife, for some authentic Wyoming culture. Saddle up to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar - and yes, those are real saddles at the bar. Snap the obligatory saddle-seat photo (don’t worry, even locals do it) and order the huckleberry mule. It’s basically a Jackson Hole rite of passage.

Just around the corner, The Wort Hotel’s Silver Dollar Bar beckons with 2,032 uncirculated Morgan silver dollars inlaid in the bar top. Grab a window seat, order a whiskey, and ask the bartenders about the ghost of the old card dealer - trust me, that story gets better every time it’s told.

Evening Your Way

Let the mountain evening unfold naturally. Cozy up by your hotel fireplace with that book you've been meaning to read, or explore the Town Square's galleries and western cuisine.

Local's Tips:

• Thursday night dance lessons at the Cowboy Bar are surprisingly addictive
• Spa appointments book fast - reserve when you book your lodging
• The Wort's happy hour is a local favorite for a reason
• Those rooftop hot tubs? Pure magic during snowfall

Ready to Plan Your Perfect Day Off?

Here’s the best part - our travel planning team can arrange all of this for you. They know which snowshoe guides tell the best stories, which dog sled teams are best for families, and how to time everything perfectly so you don’t miss a beat. 

Remember, taking a day off in Jackson Hole doesn’t mean missing out - it means discovering the other amazing experiences that make our mountain town special. Ready to start planning? Explore our winter activities guide for all these options and start creating your perfect ski rest day. 

Local’s Tips

:

• Many activities are booked up weeks in advance during peak season. We recommend securing your spots when you book your lodging to avoid disappointment.
• Snow King activities are perfect for late afternoon - you can catch the sunset over the Tetons from the top of the tubing hill!
• Combine snowshoeing with a wildlife tour for the ultimate Grand Teton experience - many operators offer package deals