Even with life not quite being business as usual, it still feels so fast-paced and demanding, so it’s important that we find ways to reconnect with each other on a daily basis. Establishing family traditions helps us do just that. Traditions are those special times that bring families together, allowing us to express unity as a family and to create bonds that last a lifetime.
And building new traditions can be a lot of fun, where we get to decide which traditions to carry forward into our holiday celebrations and daily life.
Jackson is the perfect place to create new traditions as this year has forced us all to rethink what our lives looked like – especially our social ones. So here are a whole bunch of ideas for meaningful holidays in Jackson Hole to get you started.
Holidays in Jackson Hole
We all know that skiing and snowboarding is a wonderful activity to bond over, and that might be the main reason what brought your family out to Jackson, but there are many other activities other than the traditional form of sliding on snow that can be made into a holiday family tradition.
NATIONAL PARKS & WILDLIFE TOURS
Take a winter tour through nearby Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, or the National Elk refuge and enjoy the pristine Wyoming winter landscape from the comfort of a heated snow-coach. These tours offer unparalleled vistas, options to see geological wonders like Old Faithful, and encounters with elk, moose, bald eagles, and more.
SNOWSHOEING OR CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
There are plenty of alternatives to downhill skiing and snowboarding that offer gorgeous winter vistas and a great workout. Snowshoe through one of Jackson Hole’s many powder-covered trails or take a guided snowshoeing trip through a Grand Teton National Park. Cross country skiing offers a low impact workout and a great way to find peace and tranquility of the winter landscape. Cross country skiers can enjoy groomed Nordic tracks or nature trails through Grand Teton National Park. Guided cross country ski trips and snowshoe adventures are available from Eco Tour Adventures and Hole Hiking Experience.
SNOW TURBING & COWBOY COASTER
Ready to laugh and scream like a little kid again? Snow tubing parks offer hours of winter fun for all ages. Get out and enjoy the snow at the tubing parks at Snow King Ski Area or nearby Grand Targhee Ski Resort. Rope tows and conveyor lifts make it quick and easy to get back up to the top of the hill. Remember that snow tube riders must be 42 inches or taller. The brand new Cowboy Coaster at Snow King takes riders up 456 feet and then back down on a thrill-ride of twists and hairpin turns.
SNOWMOBILING
A snowmobile tour in Jackson Hole can take you to beautiful natural settings that are otherwise inaccessible in the winter months. Hang on to your hat as an expert guide whisks you across the winter landscape. Tour Yellowstone National Park, the Gros Ventre Range, Togwotee Pass, or Greys River and visit landmarks like Old Faithful or the Granite Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing
TRAM & GONDOLA RIDES
Jackson Hole is known for its Aerial Tram, which takes passengers from the Mountain Resort to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain at 10,450 feet. The Tram offers panoramic views of the Teton Mountains, the town of Jackson, the Snake River Valley, and Grand Teton National Park. Warm-up at the top, with world-famous waffles at Corbet’s Cabin. You can also take the Bridger gondola up more than 9,000 feet and enjoy a meal at Piste Mountain Bistro at the top of the lift.
SLEIGH RIDES
Glide through Wyoming’s stunning winter landscapes in a horse-drawn sleigh. This is a perfect winter activity to get your family into a festive holiday mood. Daytime rides through the National Elk Refuge will get you within 30 feet of majestic elk and you may also see eagles, bison, foxes, and wolves. Or take an afternoon sleigh ride and top off your evening with a delicious fireside meal at Mill Iron Ranch or Spring Creek Ranch. (Photo courtesy of Eco Tour Adventures).
HOT SPRINGS
Immersing oneself in a steamy hot spring on a cold winter day surrounded by snow and mountains is, quite possibly, heaven on Earth. It’s downright blissful. It’s the kind of experience we hope everyone gets to have at least once, and if you decide to take a trip to Jackson this season, the opportunity is ripe for you. Located 30 miles southeast of Jackson, Granite is among the most popular hot springs to visit. The spring itself is completely natural, but there is a developed concrete pool to accommodate everyone more easily. It’s widely known and easy to find; about an hour from Jackson. What gives away the location of Astoria is the distinct smell of sulfur as you approach. This one is a bit more exciting when it comes to finding it because it isn’t developed and requires following the river upstream for a while. You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Snake River Canyon. Be careful, though! This hot spring is known for being extremely, well, hot!
DOG SLEDDING TOURS
It doesn’t get more authentic than this! A musher guide and a team of Alaskan sled dogs will pull you through the wilderness where you’ll learn about local wildlife and spot deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles. Choose from a half or full-day dog sledding adventure. The full-day tours even stop at Granite Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the natural spa-like waters.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES
CREATE A STAYCATION
We’ve compiled an extensive list on creating a cozy staycation that will leave you rested and relaxed. Enjoy this list of activities that will for sure help create some new family holiday traditions – https://www.abodeparkcity.com/creative-ways-to-design-a-staycation-in-your-own-abode/
IN-HOME SPA DAY
Feeling too cozy to leave your Abode? Let our Tootsy’s associates come to you for a relaxing massage, facial, or waxing services. Prices From $175 (includes travel fees). Text (307)413-4456 for Mobile Day Spa Services.
SHOPPING/DINING
DINE IN OR DINE OUT
Many restaurants are still offering curbside take out and delivery, as well as socially distanced dine-in services. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with your family from one of our favorite Jackson eateries https://www.abodejacksonhole.com/jackson-hole-restaurants-re-opening/.
HEAD OUT ON A SHOPPING STROLL
Spend an afternoon perusing the shops of Downtown Jackson Hole or Teton Village. Find the perfect last-minute gifts for everyone in your family.
GET IN THE SPIRIT FOR THE HOLIDAYS IN JACKSON HOLE
Get in the holiday by spirit by having a professional decorate your Abode in spectacular fashion! Jill King at Styling the New West will transform your Abode into a holiday wonderland making it merry and bright for your entire getaway. Make sure to mention you are a guest of Abode!
LOCAL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
JACKSON HOLE MOOSE HOCKEY
Games will be held December 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. in the Snow King Sports & Events Center. The team is back in action for their 24th season of hard-hitting ice hockey in Jackson Hole. Masks required; capacity is limited. You must reserve your tickets in advance; no walk-ups. Visit snowkingsec.com.
JACKSON HOLE CHORALE’S HOLIDAY CONCERT
Head over to the Presbyterian Church of Jackson Hole for a free holiday concert!
27TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR
Arts and crafts show at the Virginian Lodge – jacksonholechamber.com
ELK REFUGE SLEIGH RIDES
Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the magnificent National Elk Refuge. An expert guide will share information about the elk herd for an amazing up-close learning experience with unforgettable views. You may also hop on a cozy evening dinner sleigh ride. First, enjoy the winter landscape and wildlife from the comfort of a sleigh, and then sit down to a savory meal!
ICE SKATE WITH SANTA IN TETON VILLAGE
December 23-24, the big jolly guy in red will be ice skating on the rink in the Village Commons from 4-5 p.m.; free skate rentals available in the warming hut.
GLOW NIGHTS IN TETON VILLAGE
A month-long exhibit of original art installations that use colored and white light as a medium to celebrate the unique phenomena found in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). Produced by Jackson Hole Public Art.
HOLIDAY GALLERY ART WALK
Galleries will be open late, with many serving cider and other festive refreshments, along with special show openings, and holiday events. – jacksonholegalleryassociation.com
GIANT MENORAH LIGHTING ON TOWN SQUARE
Join members of Chabad Jewish Center of Jackson Hole at 7 p.m. on Town Square for songs and stories of the Festival of Lights; free; Hanukkah treats, dreidels and mini-menorahs available.
TOWN SQUARE TREE LIGHTING & SANTA ON SQUARE
Jackson Hole’s historic Town Square will light up for the holidays! Join the entire community at Town Square from 5 – 7 p.m. and watch as thousands of sparkling lights come to life for the season. There will be performances from choral and dance groups as well as cookies, hot chocolate, and other treats. Santa will be visiting Town Square regularly throughout December. Bring the little ones in the evenings from 5 – 7 p.m. for a chance to meet Santa.
HOLIDAY FUN AT JACKSON HOLE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Santa will “drop in” Jackson Hole-style at the base of the Aerial Tram on Tuesday, December, 24th at 4:30 p.m. Close out a day on the slopes with this fun event! On December 25th, little ones can ski with Santa from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. near Teewinot and Bridger Gondola. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort will offer other family activities throughout the week, including holiday cookie decorating, ice skating, and more. View the full event calendar for more details.
HOLIDAY ART & SHOPPING EVENTS
The Holiday Art Bazaar will take place at the Center for the Arts Lobby and Black Box Theater. Admission is free and you can browse holiday-themed artwork and handmade items to find the perfect gifts for loved ones.
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS AT THE WORT HOTEL
Don’t miss a visit to The Wort Hotel in downtown Jackson. The hotel will be decked out for the holidays with gorgeous lights and hosting its annual 12 Days of Christmas. From Gingerbread house decorating, to brunch with Santa, there will be fun activities for the entire family. Visit The Wort Hotel’s website for more information.
HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS AT GRAND TARGHEE RESORT
Grand Targhee Resort is kicking off two festive weeks of fun including sleigh ride dinners, snowshoe tours, movie nights, and more. The Branding Iron Grill at Grand Targhee will also be hosting a Christmas Dinner from 4 – 9 p.m
Take a peek at some of our Abodes that a perfect for the holidays. Our portfolio consists of a plethora of homes that are spacious enough for large family gatherings that are great for entertaining and family-friendly with game rooms, theaters, rec basements, and wide-open spaces for kids (and adults) to roam freely.
Contact Us
Click here to browse our Jackson Hole vacation rentals and find the rental of your dreams. Contact us to book your stay!
