Jackson Lake Tours

Jackson Lake showing mountains and a lake or waterhole
Jackson Lake which includes a lake or waterhole and mountains
Jackson Lake showing a lake or waterhole and fishing as well as a small group of people
Jackson Lake which includes mountains and a lake or waterhole
Jackson Lake showing wildflowers and a lake or waterhole


Go boating, hiking, fishing and camping on remote islands at this vast lake set in the shadow of the mountains of the Teton Range. 

Jackson Lake is a place to re-energize and dabble in recreational activities alongside the glorious mountain backdrop of Grand Teton National Park. Spend a day cruising the calm lake water, exploring nature trails, fishing for trout and visiting islands. Jackson Lake stretches for 15 miles (24 kilometers) at the base of the northern Teton Range. It was created by glacial erosion and is fed by the Snake River. 

A great way to experience the lake is to rent a boat and explore at your own pace. From May to September, canoes, motorized boats and sea kayaks are available at Signal Mountain Lodge. Visitors often bring their own water skis for more thrills on the lake. Enjoy the jaw-dropping views in all directions, dominated by Doane Peak, Eagles Rest Peak and Rammell Mountain to the west. 

Fishing is permitted during the summer with a license. Brown trout, cutthroat trout, salmon and pike all inhabit the water. Be sure to visit one of the 15 islands scattered around the lake. The biggest, Elk Island, is a great place to camp overnight, walk through conifer forests and relax on pebbly beaches. Advance reservations at the park’s visitor centers are recommended for the island’s campsite. 

Just a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk north of the lodge is the Chapel of the Sacred Heart, a quaint church built entirely of logs. Its waterfront setting offers more views of the mountains and their reflections in the glass-like water. 

At Colter Bay Village, also on the water, the Colter Bay Lakeshore Trail accesses a broad beachfront and a scenic pathway around a forested peninsula. Rent a boat at Colter Bay Marina. The Heron Pond and Swan Lake Loop is another trail accessible from the village. 

Find the lake about 40 miles (64 kilometers) north of both Jackson and Teton Village. The most convenient way to get here is via rented car. Use the free parking at Colter Bay Village and Signal Mountain Lodge. 

Visit Jackson Lake year-round, with June to September being the most popular months. Pick up maps and purchase permits at Colter Bay Visitor Center.

Reviews of Jackson Lake

4.7
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
146
5 - Excellent 72%
4 - Good
56
4 - Good 27%
3 - Okay
2
3 - Okay 1%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Beautiful for a early morning walk along the shore...few people

5/5 - Excellent

Dee

Get up and go early - it gets crowded - especially Teton Village and Jenny Lake

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Jackson Lake

Colter Bay Village

Colter Bay Village

2.5 out of 5
11 Miles North Of Moran Jct, Highway 89, Moran, WY
Colter Bay Village
Jackson Lake Lodge

Jackson Lake Lodge

3.5 out of 5
101 Jackson Lake Lodge Road, Moran, WY
Jackson Lake Lodge
Jenny Lake Lodge

Jenny Lake Lodge

4 out of 5
N Jenny Lake Jct, Moose, WY
Jenny Lake Lodge
Heart 6 Ranch

Heart 6 Ranch

3 out of 5
16985 Buffalo Valley Road, Moran, WY
Heart 6 Ranch
Buffalo Valley Ranch

Buffalo Valley Ranch

2.5 out of 5
16885 Buffalo Valley Road, Moran, WY
Buffalo Valley Ranch
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

3 out of 5
2 mi south of S. Entrance of Yellowstone, Hwy 89, Moran, WY
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Hatchet Resort

Hatchet Resort

2.5 out of 5
19980 E Hwy 287, Moran, WY
Hatchet Resort
Grand Targhee Resort

Grand Targhee Resort

2.5 out of 5
3300 Ski Hill Road, Alta, WY
Grand Targhee Resort
Teton Teepee Lodge

Teton Teepee Lodge

2 out of 5
440 W Alta Ski Hill Road, Alta, WY
Teton Teepee Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking and wildlife viewing. Key attractions include stunning lookout points, scenic rafting adventures, and numerous recreational opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, there are top events throughout the year that showcase the vibrant outdoor culture of Moran, Wyoming, making it a perfect destination for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is Colter Bay Campground, located 3.2km from Jackson Lake, offering a variety of gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, 46.7km away, known for its unique atmosphere and local crafts, or Westbank Angler, 43.5km away, for outdoor gear.

Recreation

At Climbers Ranch, immerse yourself in nature with hiking trails that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Teton Reserve Golf Course offers scenic outdoor play, perfect for golf enthusiasts. For indoor wellness, the Teton County-Jackson Recreation Center features fitness classes and relaxation areas to rejuvenate your spirit.

Adventure

At Grand Targhee Resort, enjoy skiing on powdery slopes and breathtaking mountain views, located 24.1km from Jackson Lake. Experience the scenic beauty of the Polecat Creek Loop Trail, a 9.7km hiking adventure, or hit the Blackfoot Ski Lift for thrilling downhill skiing, also 24.1km away.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Jackson Lake is vibrant, with nearby venues like the Jackson Hole Playhouse and Pink Garter Theater, both 46.7km away. These theaters offer a delightful mix of romance, entertainment, and culture, providing a perfect setting for an enchanting evening out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, offering a variety of attractions such as national parks, serene lakes, and scenic parks. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring the breathtaking landscapes. For accommodations, there are several hotels near Jackson Lake and in nearby Jackson Hole, providing convenient options for a comfortable stay while you experience the natural beauty of the area.

  • Grand Teton National Park: Experience breathtaking vistas and rugged mountain scenery at this iconic national park. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities like hiking and photography, Grand Teton offers an adventurous escape into nature's grandeur, just 12.9km from Jackson Lake.
  • Colter Bay Marina: Enjoy a day of adventure at Colter Bay Marina, located only 3.2km from Jackson Lake. Whether you want to rent a kayak, take a scenic boat tour, or relax on the beach, this vibrant marina is the perfect spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.
  • Jenny Lake: Discover the serene beauty of Jenny Lake, situated 16.1km from Jackson Lake. Ideal for romantic picnics and scenic hikes, the lake's tranquil waters and surrounding mountains create a picturesque setting for outdoor lovers.

Best time to go to Jackson Lake

The best time to visit Jackson Lake is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January14.4°F (-9.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February16.7°F (-8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March24.4°F (-4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April30.9°F (-0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
May40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
June52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July61.9°F (16.6°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
October36.1°F (2.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November22.6°F (-5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December14.0°F (-10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Jackson Lake

To save money on your trip to Jackson Lake, consider visiting in January, April, or November when prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help you secure the best rates, especially if you check for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Look for eco-certified accommodations to combine sustainability with savings, and consider package deals that include flights and activities for additional discounts. Don’t forget to use Expedia’s filters to find the best options for your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Jackson Lake are January, April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Jackson Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Jackson Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Jackson Lake is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Jackson Lake with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia