Jackson Hole Valley and Diamond Cross Ranch
Jackson Hole is a stunning valley nestled in the heart of Wyoming. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Teton and Gros Ventre ranges, this area is a gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
The town of Jackson, full of Old West charm, anchors the valley. Jackson boasts iconic attractions like the elk antler arches in Town Square, numerous art galleries, and gourmet dining spots.
Beyond the town of Jackson, Jackson Hole also encompasses smaller communities like Teton Village, home to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, a world-class destination for skiing and other alpine activities, and Wilson, a picturesque town offering a laid-back atmosphere with access to outdoor adventures.
Located 45min north from Jackson Town Square, Diamond Cross Ranch offers an unforgettable wedding venue steeped in natural beauty and rustic elegance. Located near Moran, Wyoming, the ranch is framed by panoramic views of the towering Grand Tetons and lush meadows, creating a magical backdrop for our celebration.
Practical Planning Information
Lodging: Recommend securing your lodging in the town of Jackson as opposed to Teton Village which is another 25min away from Jackson’s Town Square. In addition to the recommended hotels, Outpost Jackson Hole has the largest selection of rental properties in Jackson Hole valley.
Transportation: A rental car is highly recommended for exploring Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National Parks. Be sure to book in advance, early Sept is still considered peak season.
Park Entrance Fees: Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks charge an entrance fee, typically around $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
Advance Bookings (Very important): It is advisable to book tours, activities, and dinner reservations, especially for fine dining, well in advance.
Bear Spray: Early September is a wonderful time for wildlife viewing, so if you plan on hiking or walking in the national parks, it is important to take necessary safety measures. Carrying bear spray is a responsible precaution. We have not had to use our spray yet, but it gives peace of mind, especially when hiking alone. Recommend you rent your Bear Spray ($20/3 days) at Jackson Hole Airport so it’s easy to return before your return flight.
Wildlife Sightings: Be aware that September is elk and moose rutting season, so wildlife activity may be high. Moose-Wilson Road is our favorite road for seeing bears and moose (early morning or dusk) given berries will be plentiful along this route in September. Be sure to follow park guidelines on maintaining safe distances from any wildlife. You don’t want to be captured on the Tourons Of Yellowstone website. Bring binoculars or a DSLR camera with a telescopic lens to improve your wildlife viewing experience.
Suggested Itineraries
Explore the Town of Jackson
Stroll around Town Square, known for its iconic antler arches.
Browse western boutiques (Kemo Sabe, Bella Cose), art galleries, and souvenir shops (Lee’s Tees). Do not miss MADE for unique handmade goods and Mursel's Sweet Shop for treats.
Have lunch or dinner at one of Jackson's recommended restaurants (see below) or grab a coffee at Cowboy Coffee or the Snake River Roasting Company. For something sweet, ice cream at Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream is very popular.
In the evenings, experience the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for a taste of the Wild West (Western dancing, live country and Americana music) or the Silver Dollar Saloon in the historic Wort Hotel (be sure to check out to bar top with thousands of 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars and the picture gallery between the saloon and hotel lobby)
On Saturday morning on the wedding day, be sure to spend some time at the Jackson Hole Farmer's Market from 8-12am in the Town Square
Scenic Drive and Wildlife Viewing in Grand Teton National Park (30min from Jackson)
Take the 42-Mile Scenic Loop Drive in Grand Teton National Park for stunning views of the Teton Range. Key viewpoints include Jackson Lake Dam, Signal Mountain Summit Road, Mount Moran Turnout, Oxbow Bend (for wildlife viewing, especially at sunrise or sunset), Snake River Overlook, and take pictures in front of Mormon Row (historic barns with Teton views). It’s also worth getting out to visit Jenny Lake which is a 100yd walk from the Jenny Lake visitor center.
Start early for the best wildlife viewing and avoid crowds. Check road conditions, especially for the Moose-Wilson Road which is our favorite for seeing bears and moose (early morning or dusk) given berries will be plentiful in September. Several wildlife tour guide companies operate in Jackson. Recommend booking them through your hotel if you want a guide.
Also recommend checking out Schwabacher Landing which is a hidden gem where professional photographers take family pictures and the national park service will also host very small weddings as its one of the most scenic locations under the Grand Teton.
Popular Hikes in Grand Teton National Park
Favorite GTNP Hikes
GTNP: Phelps Lake Loop 4.7m RT moderate (our favorite hike in GTNP) which includes the chance to cool off in the lake with a leap from Jumping Rock. Parking is extremely limited so you need to be there before 9am otherwise waiting times for parking can be over an hour.
GTNP: Hidden Falls at Jenny Lake 6.2m RT easy - recommend taking the ferry to make the hike much shorter. Expect large crowds/popular location.
GTNP: Leigh Lake 3.7m RT easy (very scenic and prefer over Jenny Lake)
GTNP: Taggart Lake 5.5m RT moderate
Remember to carry water, snacks, sun protection, and bear spray.
Recommend pizza or pasta at Dornans in Grand Teton National Park. This is usually our first stop after picking up friends from the airport to view the Grand Tetons at sunset from Dornans’ rooftop patio.
Explore Yellowstone National Park (1.5hrs from Jackson)
A day trip to Yellowstone National Park is a must-do if you have a full day. Due to the park's size, we recommend focusing on a specific area.
Lower Loop: See iconic sights like Old Faithful Geyser and the Yellowstone Grand Canyon
Wildlife Viewing: Visit Hayden Valley or Lamar Valley for prime wildlife spotting, especially at dawn or dusk.
Driving times within Yellowstone can be long due to summer crowds. Pack for a full day, including food, water, and layers. Check for road closures.
Experience Snow King Mountain Resort (Town Hill) in the Town of Jackson
The local ski resort located just a few blocks from Jackson's town square provides various summer activities. These include a hiking trail system as well as family activities such as mini golf, ziplines, the cowboy coaster, and a treetop adventure park.
Take a ride on Snow King's new gondola to the summit and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole Valley. The Aurora Summit Restaurant just opened this summer for lunch and dinner as well as a brand new, state-of-the-art Observatory & Planetarium | Snow King Mountain
If not Aurora, recommend lunch or dinner at StillWest Brewery & Grill at the base of the resort/gondola.
Biking and Easy Hiking Opportunities in the Town of Jackson
Behind the Jackson US Post Office on Maple Lane is the entrance to the Jackson Friends of Pathway System. Great for scenic short walk (paved) in town along the Cache Creek or check out Cache Creek and Hagen's Trail Loop (1.8-mile RT) (not paved)
If you are into biking, rent an e-bike or mountain bike from Snow King Resort and take the Jackson Friends of Pathway system out to Rendezvous Park on the Snake River and get a picture with the Mama Mimi Troll (11-miles RT)
Prefer a scenic walk along the Snake River, drive out to Snake River Trail at Emily Stevens Park (very popular with locals and dogs for easy exercise/usually good place to see moose) or take the pedestrian bridge across the Snake River to see the Mama Mimi Troll in Rendezvous Park.
Visit Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Located in Teton Village
25min from Jackson is Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village.
Recommend purchasing JHMR Aerial Tram and Bridger Gondola Day Pass ($43-50/person – discounts online). The summit (10K elevation) offers staggering 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley, and surrounding mountain ranges and don't forget the world-famous gourmet waffles in Corbet's Cabin at the Tram summit. Be sure to check out the summit temperature on the JMMR website so you are dressed appropriately.
You can use the same pass to take the Bridger Gondola for more views as well as lunch at Piste Mountain Bistro.
Dinner & lunch options in Teton Village include Corsa, Spur Restaurant and the Handle Bar Restaurant & Pub | Four Seasons
Restaurants
(** Favorites/Highly Recommended)
Breakfast/Brunch
Cowboy Coffee** - 1st Stop to start your day – short walk to Town Square for coffee and sausage biscuit. Always a line during the busy season
Persephone Bakery Café** - A cozy cafe and bakery near Town Square, serving breakfast and lunch. Try their croissants, quiches, sandwiches, and salads.
The Bunnery Bakery & Restaurant** - Jackson Hole tradition - charming bakery known for its fresh pastries, breakfast items, and cozy atmosphere near Town Square
Other notables: Snake River Roasting Company, Virginian Restaurant (HUGE cinnamon rolls), Bubba’s B-B-Que Restaurant, Cafe Genevieve
Casual Favorites – Lunch/Dinner
Town of Jackson
StillWest Brewery & Grill** - StillWest offers open-air, mountainside dining with scenic views of Snow King Mountain. They serve artfully crafted beers, seasonal cocktails, and a menu made from scratch.
Jackson Drug** - The Original Soda Fountain: (Favorite/Burger/Shakes) An old Jackson institution dating back to 1919, Jackson Drug serves up homemade ice cream, malts, burgers, and sandwiches located in Town Square
Teton Tiger** - Located near Town Square, Teton Tiger serves up a delightful fusion of flavors from various Asian cuisines. Lettuce wraps are one of our favorite dishes.
Picnic** - Favorite for health lunch. A delightful spot for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They serve sandwiches, salads, and other picnic-style fare.
Gather** - Gather combines creative American cuisine with a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re there for dinner, small plates at the bar, or happy hour, you’ll find something delicious.
Snake River Brewing – Located in Jackson, its Wyoming’s oldest brewery, offering a variety of craft beers and a cozy atmosphere with a variety of menu items/appetizers. Lots of TV screens for game watching
Pinky G’s Pizzeria** (Town favorite and ours as well) – open late
Hatch Taqueria And Tequilas - Hatch offers modern Mexican cuisine, including fresh tacos made with gluten-free tortillas.
Bin22 - A wine bar and tapas restaurant, serving Spanish and Italian dishes. Try their cheese and charcuterie boards, paella, and pasta.
Palate at National Museum of Wildlife Art (world-class and renown wildlife art museum overlooking the National Elk Refuge with artist like Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and Carl Rungius)
Cutty’s Bar and Grill (Must stop for any Philadelphia fans)
Big Hole BBQ (Best BBQ)
Teton Village
Corsa**: charming Italian-inspired restaurant that captures the rustic and laid-back vibe of Jackson Hole. Known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas with thin, bubbly crusts and fresh mozzarella. (One of the best pepperoni pizzas we have experienced)
Spure Restaurant & Bar**: mountain-inspired cuisine with a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. Known for its creative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, Spur offers favorites like bison short ribs, pork belly, and house-made pasta
The Handle Bar @ Four Seasons** - regular stop after skiing or mountain biking at JHMR/Teton Village. Great place to order a boot of beer.
Teton Thai : Located in Teton Village/JHMR about 30min away, serving authentic Thai cuisine. Try their curries, noodles, and stir-fries.
Piste Mountain at JHMR- enjoy eating up on JHMR ski resort via the gondola. Reservations after 5pm include free gondola ride to Piste
Upscale Dining (Jackson dinner attire is always casual)
Glorietta Trattoria** - Caroline’s #1 favorite dinner spot where the focus is on handmade pasta and wood-fired cooking. The menu features expertly crafted cocktails and a value-oriented cellar of incredible Italian wines. Tasteful yet casual and fun dining experience
Local Restaurant & Bar** - (Our favorite steakhouse) A modern steakhouse and bar, serving grass-fed beef and local ingredients. Try their burgers, steaks, and cocktails. On Town Square, enjoy a casual bar atmosphere or dine in the contemporary western-designed dining room
Blue Lion** - Intimate, local favorite, offering dishes such as rack of lamb, fresh fish with full-flavored sauces, and crab cream cheese stuffed mushrooms. The cozy ambiance and attentive service make it a must-visit especially for special occasions.
King Sushi – For Sushi fans but visitors rave that it’s the best – short walk/small and popular restaurant.
Kampai – popular contemporary Japanese cuisine/sushi with roof top bar/seating near Town Square.
Snake River Grill - A fine dining restaurant with a rustic ambiance, serving American cuisine with a twist. Try their signature steak tartare pizza or their elk chop.
The Restaurant at White Buffalo Club: popular steakhouse
Other Things to Do
Snow King Summit Concert: Rainbow Kitten Surprise (Wed, Sept 3 6:30p-10pm) Rainbow Kitten Surprise is an American indie and alternative rock band whose music blends elements of rock, folk, and pop. They will be playing on an outdoor stage at the summit of Snow King Mountain Resort. The concert ticket includes the price of the gondola ride. Be sure to arrive early at the gondola as this generates very long lines before and after the concert. Tickets usually sell out as the event is limited to 2500 people. To purchase tickets, go to King Concert 2025 | Snow King Mountain
Jackson Hole Rodeo (Friday, Sept 5) — Where the West is still Wild! (Friday/Sept 5 @ 8pm). For guests looking to experience the real Jackson Hole – highly recommend this rodeo as it's very entertaining. It will sell out several weeks before the rodeo event, so recommend buying tickets in advance and be sure to select covered seating in case of rain.
Guided Fly Fishing
Jackson Hole Fly Fishing School: Best way to experience the Snake River. We love their guides for ½ day float and fly fishing on the Snake River. For beginners and experience fly fishing guests. In addition to catching lots of cut throat trout, you are likely to see bald eagles who nest along the river.
Whitewater Rafting on the Snake River
Looking for an exhilarating adventure through stunning canyon scenery. Known for its Class II and III rapids, Dave Hansen Whitewater provides expert guides ensuring safety and fun with a ½ day trip that offers a mix of calm stretches and thrilling waves like Big Kahuna and Lunchcounter.
Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris
Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris | Grand Teton & Yellowstone Tours offers guided wildlife tours in the area. You can see bears, moose, elk, bison, and more. You can also enjoy photography, education, and snacks.
Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum
Located in downtown Jackson, the museum was recently moved to this new facility, and it offers a unique opportunity to connect with the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Jackson Hole valley.
Golf
Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis: Only golf club with public access in the afternoons. Located at 5000 Spring Gulch Rd. Jackson, WY 83001. Golf shop: 307.733.3111