Hi! I’m Andie Cornish, a new writer for Antlers Arch—and a born-and-raised Jackson local. This valley isn’t just my home, it’s part of who I am. And while we’re thrilled you’re here to experience its magic, there’s no denying that Jackson is feeling the strain.
Our town was never meant to handle the kind of visitor numbers we see today. So, as the summer season heats up, here are five things we locals wish every visitor knew before they come play in our backyard.
1. This Land Is Yours—So Take Care of It
Grand Teton and the surrounding public lands belong to all of us. Tourism keeps Jackson’s economy humming, but it comes with a big responsibility. Please treat this place like you live here. That means respecting the land, wildlife, and people who call it home.
Trashing trails, ignoring closures, or disrespecting rangers doesn’t just ruin someone’s vacation; it threatens the future of Jackson itself. Don’t believe us? Just look at how fire danger is already high this summer.
2. Wildlife Isn’t a Photo Prop
We get it, seeing a grizzly bear or moose in the wild is unforgettable. But crowding wildlife, feeding animals, or stopping traffic to snap a pic puts lives in danger (including yours). Overcrowding in Grand Teton can push animals into town, which often ends badly for them.
This is bear country. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and give all wildlife the space they need. Learn more in our guide on how to explore GTNP without getting roasted or mauled.
3. Support Local, Skip the Chains
Want to experience the real Jackson? Shop at locally owned stores, eat at family-run restaurants, and show up to community events. Skip the corporate chains and you’ll find the town’s real flavor. Check out the Jackson Hole Farmers Market or catch a show at the Center for the Arts.
Every dollar you spend locally helps preserve Jackson’s character and gives you a more authentic experience.
4. Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace
With thousands of feet hitting the same trails each day, our public lands are under stress. Stick to trails. Pack out your trash, including orange peels and apple cores. Don’t carve your name into a tree or snag a wildflower for your Instagram story.
Take only pictures, leave only footprints, and encourage your travel buddies to do the same.
5. Your Car Is the Problem. Be the Solution.
Traffic here in July is no joke. Our small-town roads weren’t built for summer surges, and backups stretch from the park entrance to the town square. Want to help? Walk, bike, carpool, or ride the START Bus. You’ll ease congestion, reduce emissions, and save your sanity.
And whatever you do, please don’t stop in the middle of the road for a bison selfie. It’s dangerous, illegal, and definitely not the Jackson vibe.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a season, we’re glad to have you. Just remember, this isn’t a theme park. It’s home. With a little respect and responsibility, you’ll help make sure it stays wild and welcoming for generations to come.
Thanks for being part of the solution.
—Andie
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.
