5 Hidden Gems in Jackson that You Can Only Find in the Fall

1. Elk Rutting in Yellowstone National Park

In autumn, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and Jackson Hole come to life with the sounds of nature. One of the most famous is bugle of a rutting elk. The high-pitched call only takes place in September and October, and is loudest and sunrise and sunset, when bull elk call for a mate.

While you can hear elk bugling in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton throughout the fall season, my favorite place to witness the seasonal spectacle is near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Leave Jackson early in the morning (pre-sunrise) and drive through Grand Teton with the windows down. Then start the Lower Loop of Yellowstone, aiming for Canyon Village around 5 pm. Walking on the trails from Canyon Village to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or along the rim trails provide fall sounds and stunning sunsets.

2. Leaf Peeping in Hoback Canyon

Jackson Hole is entirely surrounded by public land, complete with 360 degree views of changing leaves in the fall. I’d argue, however, that no leaf-peeping spot is quite as vibrant as Hoback Canyon to the South.

From mid-September to late-October, a drive through Hoback Canyon is a must. Drive South to the Hoback round-a-bout and take the first exit to enter the canyon. Stop at one of the pull-outs, like Lunch Rock, for a picture and grab lunch in Hoback before heading back.

For a one-of-a-kind experience with fall views from the water, book a rafting trip down the Hoback Canyon.

3. Fall Sunrise at Schwabacher’s Landing

Schwabacher’s Landing Overlook in Grand Teton National Park offers one of the most beautiful views in the entire park. In the summer in the middle of the day, it can be a fairly busy stop. But in the fall early in the morning, the views are unparalleled and there’s a chance you’ll have it all to yourself!

Grab a coffee from the Cowboy Coffee drive-thru on your way, and arrive early. In September and October, the sunrise in Jackson Hole starts between 7 am and 7:45 am.

4. Crisp Air in a Hot Spring

Fall in Jackson Hole is hot spring season! There’s nothing like warming up in a natural hot pool on a crsip day surrounded by yellow, orange, and red trees.

Astoria Hot Springs in Hoback Canyon is perfect for an easy, accessible hot spring experience. Whereas Granite Hot Springs, in Bridger-Teton National Forest, offers a more remote experience.

5. Biking Teton Village Road

Wilson to Teton Village shares some of the best that fall has to offer in Jackson Hole. Situated at the base of the Tetons, a ride along Teton Village Road offers views of the mountains, the Snake River, local ranches, wildlife, and, of course, colorful trees.

Rent a bike or e-bike then cruise along the well-maintained pathway as far, or as short, as you like. When you’re thirsty or hungry, stop at a local watering hole like the Stagecoach, Calico, or the Mangy Moose.