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.

Plan a trip to see Jackson Lake

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Anvil Hotel

Anvil Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Price was $875, price is now $651 per person
$651
per person
Nov 20 - Nov 25
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Jackson Hole (JAC)
8.2/10 Very Good! (772 reviews)
My second time staying at The Anvil, and was a pleasure to stay here as always and great value for money. As a female solo traveller this place was convenient and walkable to the main town square (no long walks in the dark, not that you really need to worry in Jackson). It is more of a motel in terms of how rooms are laid out but I always felt safe. My Wi-fi wasn't working on arrival but a quick call to the front desk and they cleared it all up and got it working. They had free coffee in the lobby with a warm and cosy seated area and a WC - great if you're killing time before or after check out. They have some drinks and snacks in the rooms but at a price. As a lot of other reviews state, the parking is very limited and is first come first serve, I've personally never had a problem getting a space but they do recommend street parking too if need be. Another quick gripe is the noise level. The problem was more the neighbours stomping along the landing outside at 2am but you can hear next door if their TV or voices are above normal. On another note; Should you ever need it, Doordash also deliver here too. I suffered awful food poisoning (from a restaurant in town) and being alone and from UK, I felt a little vulnerable. But after ordering my body weight in meds and water, the friendly staff showed the dasher the way to my room and was back on my feet in 24hrs. What a gem :) Like always - I would recommend this hotel.

Reviewed on Oct 8, 2025

Tammah Jackson Hole

Tammah Jackson Hole

3 out of 5
Price was $1,770, price is now $1,325 per person
$1,325
per person
Dec 22 - Dec 27
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Jackson Hole (JAC)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (85 reviews)
This was a great stay! The room was clean, the bed was very comfortable and the location is great. Relaxing on your own private porch area is so nice. I would stay here again!

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2025

WorldMark West Yellowstone

WorldMark West Yellowstone

3.5 out of 5
Price was $1,201, price is now $912 per person
$912
per person
Nov 9 - Nov 15
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Jackson Hole (JAC)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (234 reviews)
Perfect location for a Yellowstone trip

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2025

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

Colter Bay Visitor Center showing mountains, a river or creek and a bay or harbor

Colter Bay Visitor Center

Join ranger-led programs, such as hikes and wildlife tours, and peruse an exhibit of Native American art at this information center.

Colter Bay Visitor Center
Colter Bay Marina which includes a lake or waterhole, mountains and a bay or harbor

Colter Bay Marina

Rent a boat to explore Jackson Lake, gaze in awe at the snow-capped peaks of the Teton Range and follow trails to beaches and lookouts.

Colter Bay Marina
We really enjoyed the drive from the Grand Tetons to Yellowstone. This is the view from Jackson Lake Lodge where we stopped for lunch and watched for wildlife. Pro tip: bring binoculars when visiting the parks! #GrandTeton #NationalPark

Jackson Lake Lodge

Learn about the local history of Moran when you spend time at Jackson Lake Lodge. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's mountain views.

Jackson Lake Lodge
Chapel of the Sacred Heart

Chapel of the Sacred Heart

Sitting peacefully on the banks of Jackson Lake, this log church offers views of the soaring peaks of Grand Teton National Park.

Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Grand Teton National Park featuring landscape views and tranquil scenes

Signal Mountain

Drive, hike or bike to one of the most popular viewpoints in the park to observe majestic mountains and a serene lake.

Signal Mountain
Oxbow Bend which includes a river or creek and mountains

Oxbow Bend

This natural bend in the Snake River is the setting for superb photography and wildlife spotting opportunities. Capture an image of Mount Moran in the background.

Oxbow Bend

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
Buffalo Valley Ranch

Buffalo Valley Ranch

2.5 out of 5
16885 Buffalo Valley Road, Moran, WY
Buffalo Valley Ranch
Heart 6 Ranch

Heart 6 Ranch

3 out of 5
16985 Buffalo Valley Road, Moran, WY
Heart 6 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
See all 1,906 properties in Jackson Lake
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

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jackson Lake in Moran, Wyoming, where you can enjoy scenic rafting, hiking, and wildlife watching. Explore numerous recreational opportunities, including stunning lookout points that offer panoramic views. Don't miss out on the top events in the area, which capture the essence of this picturesque destination, making your visit truly unforgettable.

Shopping

Colter Bay Campground store is a convenient 2 miles away, offering a variety of gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, 29 miles away, and Westbank Angler, 27 miles away, both offering unique shopping experiences with a local vibe.

Recreation

At Climbers Ranch, 14 miles from Jackson Lake, immerse yourself in nature with wellness activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy outdoor sports at Teton Reserve Golf Course, located 28 miles away, or find tranquility at the Teton County-Jackson Recreation Center, 29 miles from the lake.

Adventure

At Grand Targhee Resort, 15 miles from Jackson Lake, experience thrilling skiing and breathtaking mountain views. Explore the scenic Lupine Meadows Trailhead, located 12 miles away, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. For more skiing fun, visit the Blackfoot Ski Lift, also 15 miles from the lake, offering exhilarating runs.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Jackson Hole Playhouse and Pink Garter Theater, both 29 miles from Jackson Lake. Enjoy captivating performances that blend culture and romance, perfect for families looking for entertainment. These venues offer a lively atmosphere that will make your evening unforgettable.

*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 in Moran, Wyoming, offers an array of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the stunning national parks and scenic lakes, all while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Don't miss nearby Jackson Hole for additional activities and accommodations; there are plenty of hotels available near Jackson Lake to enhance your stay. Whether you're looking for adventure or serene views, Jackson Lake has something for everyone.

  • Grand Teton National Park: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grand Teton National Park, located 8 miles from Jackson Lake. This stunning national park offers incredible outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a chance to connect with nature in a truly majestic setting.
  • Colter Bay Marina: Just 2 miles from Jackson Lake, Colter Bay Marina is the perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy thrilling activities, relax on the beach, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere while surrounded by stunning lake views.
  • Jenny Lake: Located 10 miles from Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake is a picturesque destination ideal for romance and relaxation. Revel in its serene beauty, explore scenic trails, and enjoy a day by the water amidst stunning mountain vistas.

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 CloudyAverageAverage
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 SunnyLowSlightly Low
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, plan your visit in April or from October to November when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, preferably on a Tuesday for the best rates. Consider last-minute deals on Expedia for spontaneous trips, and use their search tool to filter by budget. Combining hotel, flight, and activities into a package can also lead to savings. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Jackson Lake are April and October to 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: Book your hotel around Jackson Lake about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • 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 choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Jackson Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia