How to dodge the crowds and still soak in the magic
Think you know Jackson Hole? Think again. While most visitors head straight for the ferry at Jenny Lake or cram into a viewpoint with 50 other people, there’s a quieter, wilder side of Jackson waiting for those who are willing to wander a little further.
Below are my favorite lesser-traveled routes and local tips that offer all the beauty without the bumper-to-bumper trail traffic.
1. Explore the Edges
Skip the ferry at Jenny Lake and hike the perimeter instead. Park at the Jenny Lake Boat Ramp or String Lake and take the scenic, flat trail to Cascade Canyon. Fewer crowds mean better chances of spotting moose, elk, and bears. And don’t forget the National Forest lands just outside the park, which offer similar scenery and wildlife minus the congestion.
2. Chase the Dirt Roads
For rugged beauty and a dose of solitude:
- National Elk Refuge Road: Stunning Teton views, elk and bighorn sheep sightings, and even free BLM camping.
- Curtis Canyon: Perfect for dispersed camping and hiking, just east of town.
- South Fall Creek Road: A winding, colorful drive especially gorgeous in the fall, connecting Hoback to Wilson with frequent wildlife sightings.
3. Sunrise Missions
Want the iconic trails without the traffic jam? Set your alarm. Trails like Lupine Meadows fill up fast (often by 9 a.m.), but getting there for sunrise delivers stunning views, silence, and the chance to experience the Tetons at their most peaceful.
4. Go with the Underdog Outfitters
Jackson’s guided trip market is booming, but smaller, lesser-known companies offer just as much adventure with fewer people. Case in point: Willow Creek Horseback Rides (south of town) offers personalized experiences in quieter areas with postcard-worthy views.
5. Talk to the Locals
Some of the best tips come from your bartender or the gal fitting your hiking boots. Locals want you to love this place, but they also appreciate visitors who approach it with curiosity and respect.
Final Thought
There’s a magic to being alone in the Tetons. With a little extra effort and a willingness to look past the top 5 tourist to-dos, you might just discover your own secret corner of Jackson Hole.
Andie Cornish is a professional trail runner and skier born and raised in Jackson, WY. She attended the University of Vermont where she ran D1 track/cross country and obtained a degree in environmental studies. Her passions for the outdoors, sustainability, and advocacy drive both her time on the trails and her work off of them, where she hopes to inspire connection and build community. She is especially committed to empowering women in sports and creating space for more female voices in the mountain world.
