Making the Most of Late Summer in Jackson Hole

September is arguably one of the best times of year in the Tetons. The nights are cool and crisp; the days glow golden and sunny. Wildlife begins to migrate back into the valley to prepare for winter. The crowds start to quiet down. 

The leaves are starting to change and soon fall will begin in earnest. But there’s plenty of summer to squeeze out of September. Here’s how we make the most of it. 

Soak Up Sun and Healing Waters 

Late summer and early fall is the perfect time of year to visit the two hot spring pools just south of Jackson. If the sun is out, the air still stays cooler than during the peak summer months, and a comfortable soak feels extra luxurious. And on a cooler, grey day, where better to be than in hot, healing mineral water? 

Just a few miles down the Snake River Canyon, Astoria Hot Springs Park offers a slightly more developed hot springs experience right against the Snake River. The park offers five pools, including two ADA-accessible pools, ranging from comfortably warm to delightfully hot. There are also changing rooms and restrooms complete with showers, a small concession booth selling snacks and drinks, a playground and a picnic area. This park is by reservation only, and you can book a two-hour timeslot on their website. 

A little further off the beaten path is Granite Hot Springs. It’s at the end of a nine-mile dirt road in Hoback Canyon that, in winter months, can only be accessed by snowmobile, dog sled or ski. But in September, the road is still clear and the drive is spectacular. Hoback Canyon is nestled in the central Gros Ventre mountains and has some of the best fall foliage in the valley starting in about mid-September.

The pool itself is managed by the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and visitors must pay a $12 fee per person ($7 for kids), cash only. A large wooden deck surrounds the deep blue pool. There are changing rooms and vault toilets, but no running or potable water, so bring plenty of your own.

Prime Time for National Park Visits 

September in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks won’t feel quite as busy as in the peak summer months. And with daytime temperatures averaging in the 70s, the weather is often perfect for hiking. 

Wildlife will likely also be more active. Fall is their busiest season, and they will have begun to feel the pull of winter. That means they are migrating, mating or preparing to hibernate — which makes them extra visible, but also more aggressive. Remember to keep a safe, respectful distance and carry bear spray on your hikes. 

Angler's Paradise

September is primetime for fly fishing. The river is low and the cutthroat trout are abundant. The banks are golden and the water sparkles in the late summer sun. So even if you don’t cast or catch anything, you’ll get a great scenic float or a serene day by the river. A fly fishing guide will make sure you get on the right water and impart hard-earned expertise on the fish, the ecosystem and the right technique for your day’s specific conditions.

Fall Arts Festival 

Jackson transforms into a vibrant, thriving arts hub each September during the Fall Arts Festival. For 12 days, some of the best landscape, wildlife and Western artists in the world gather in Jackson to create and collect. The festival features plenty of visual art, but also celebrates culinary art, performing art and any other forms of creative expression. There are events at galleries, parks and venues across the valley, offering chances to meet and see artists at work or browse impressive and diverse collections. 

It may be the beginning of migration season in the valley, but September is a great time to reflect on the value of sticking around. Whether you’re looking to plant new roots in the valley or thinking about how to make the most of the home you have, we are here to help. Reach out today for our expert local insights. 

149 Alpine Meadow Loop, Alpine, WY | Courtesy of Diana Ferguson