The best time to visit Jackson Hole is completely based on what you want to do! Every season has something unique to offer. This post takes a look at each season to help you determine when the best time to visit Jackson Hole is for you! Here at the Red Rock Ranch, we’re open the end of May through early November, giving you a taste of spring and winter, and fully open summer and fall. We think the best time to visit Jackson Hole is when you can stay at Red Rock Ranch!

Spring (Late March-May): 35-70 degrees 

Grand Tetons

Spring celebrates a quiet calm – snow is melting, flowers are getting ready to bloom, and the crowds haven’t arrived. By Memorial Day, when the town celebrates Old West Days, winter has been left in the past. Because spring is so quiet here, it can actually be a great time to visit, particularly for wildlife lovers. Animals begin to emerge from hibernation with their babies. Lucky onlookers may see these little ones taking their first steps. If you’re hoping to visit Yellowstone while here, plan for late May when roads within the park reopen. While May is the rainiest month of the year in Jackson Hole, raining all day long is uncommon. Instead, most of the rain falls with sporadic showers and sunny breaks in between. Spring is quite, calm and beautiful, and also signals the start of the upcoming season at Red Rock Ranch!

Summer (June-August): 70-85+ degrees

red rock ranch 2020 year in review

Summer is the best time for most outdoor activities. Despite it being the busiest season, it is a wonderful time to visit. While it’s busy in town, it’s never crowded at the ranch, as we limit ourselves to a 35 person occupancy! Rivers run full, mountain trails open, lake temperatures rise, and both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park are fully open. Hiking, biking, rafting, climbing, fishing, golfing… the list of summer fun is endless.  The only thing that settles down in summer is the weather. Days are dry and mild, and evenings cool down allowing the perfect night’s sleep. At the ranch guests enjoy fabulous activities including: horseback riding, kid’s program, fly-fishing, swimming, hiking and various weekly speakers. We offer both 3 night and 6 night all-inclusive dude ranch stays throughout the summer. Learn More!

Fall (September-early November): 45-75 degrees

Fall at Red Rock Ranch

Locals often report the fall months as their favorites. In early fall, the area operates like a calmer version of summer. The same activities are available, hiking is fantastic and the fishing can be excellent! Fall also brings the bright yellow colors from the aspen trees. Peak fall foliage takes place between mid-September and the end of the first week of October. Most of the of the National Park roads remains open through early October, making fall a great time to visit when summer crowds are fading. Late fall we begin to see the hints towards winter. At the ranch, our kids’ program ends August 28, and we move to Adults only through the middle of September. For those that might see busy summer vacations with kids not as relaxing, fall in Jackson Hole and at the ranch, is a lovely alternative.

Winter (mid November-early March): 30 degrees and below  

This is the quietest time of year in Jackson Hole as the transition from fall to winter happens. The Teton Park Road closes on November 1st and other roads gradually start to close depending on snowfall.  Here at the ranch, a pair of select cabins are available as Jackson Hole Cabin Rentals during our non-guest ranch season mid to late September through early November. These cabins are fully furnished complete with kitchens. Staying at the ranch during this time is perfect for fly fishing on 3 miles of a private Blue Ribbon trout stream, Crystal Creek. Miles of hiking trails offer cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

So When is the Best time to visit Jackson Hole?

Overall, every season in Jackson Hole is worth a visit, with summer often being considered the best time.  Remember, if you’re looking for place to stay near Jackson Hole, consider a stay at Red Rock Ranch. The ranch is located outside of Jackson Hole with Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park just a short drive away.

This Jackson Hole Dude Ranch has been owned and operated by the same family for 40 years. Fishing, hiking, swimming in the pool, and horseback riding through the scenic terrain with views of the Teton Mountain range will transport you back to another time. Enjoy fabulous ranch cuisine from yummy BBQ’s to gourmet plated dinners, and private lodging in beautifully appointed Western log cabins. Check availability and book your Jackson Hole Dude Ranch adventure today!