Why Jackson Hole Winter Should Be On Your List

Usually, we spend the last two weeks of December flying somewhere far away. We’re used to airport lounges, long-haul flights, and collecting passport stamps before the year ends. But this time, we wanted something different. We wanted slow mornings. Snow outside the window. A place that felt cozy instead of busy.

So we traded our usual international trip for a white Christmas in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Looking back now, I can honestly say it was one of the best holiday decisions we’ve ever made. And if you’re thinking about where to go this winter, let me tell you why Jackson Hole deserves to be at the top of your list.

Winter in Jackson Hole is exactly how you imagine it. Snow covers everything: the rooftops, the trees, the fences, even the wooden signs along the road. The air feels crisp and clean. Every morning looked like a postcard.

What I loved most was how peaceful it felt. Winter here isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another. It’s about slowing down. Drinking coffee while watching snow fall. Taking scenic drives. Bundling up in layers and stepping into fresh powder.

If you’re dreaming of a cozy winter escape, the kind with fireplaces, mountain views, and wildlife in the distance.

One of the biggest highlights of our trip was our half-day snowmobiling tour to Granite Hot Springs with Teton Tour Company.

During winter, the hot springs are only accessible by snowmobile, dog sled, skiing, or fat biking. That alone made the experience feel special. It’s not something you just casually drive up to. You have to earn it a little.

The ride there was unreal. We passed through snow-covered forests and wide-open white landscapes with mountains in the background. The only sounds were our snowmobiles and the wind. It felt both wild and peaceful.

And then, soaking in a steaming hot spring while snow surrounded us? Pure magic. If you’re planning to go, here’s my biggest tip: book the first tour of the morning. You’ll be the first group to arrive, which means you can enjoy the hot springs quietly before more people show up. Trust me, having that peaceful moment makes the experience even more memorable.

Winter activities like this are what make Jackson Hole such a perfect holiday destination. It’s adventure and relaxation all in one day.

One thing I didn’t expect was how much wildlife we would see. Winter is actually one of the best seasons to spot animals in this area because many of them move down to lower elevations to find food. And we were lucky almost every day.

Driving along the road near the National Elk Refuge, we spotted herds of bighorn sheep in the snow. Some were near the road, others were up on the hills. We always kept a safe distance, but seeing them up close was incredible.

The snow made everything look even more dramatic with the white ground, dark horns, and quiet surroundings. If you’re visiting in winter, plan time for scenic drives. Don’t rush. Wildlife appears when you least expect it.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the trip happened while we were driving along Highway 26 through Grand Teton National Park. We had already seen moose from far away earlier in the trip. They usually kept their distance, which is completely understandable. But on our last day, we got incredibly lucky.

We spotted three bull moose along a quiet side road. We slowly pulled over and just sat there, watching them. One had even shed its antlers. Seeing such massive animals in real life, especially in the snow, felt surreal. It’s one thing to see wildlife in photos. It’s another thing entirely to witness it just a short distance away.

During our stay, we also saw elk, mule deer, bison, bighorn sheep, and even a coyote. Winter truly is prime time for wildlife here. If you’re someone who loves nature photography or simply wants to experience the wild side of Wyoming, winter is the season to come.

Another first for me? Seeing bison. While driving from Jackson Hole toward Moran, we spotted several bison near the highway. They were far away, but I didn’t care. I was just excited to finally see them in person.

The snow-covered landscape made the whole scene feel cinematic. These huge animals stand quietly against the white mountains. It’s something I’ll never forget. Moments like this are what make a winter road trip through the Tetons so special. It’s not about checking off attractions. It’s about unexpected encounters.

Of course, where you stay matters. We chose Bentwood Inn, and it completely exceeded our expectations. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel at home. It didn’t feel like a hotel. It felt like staying at a warm mountain lodge with friends.

We stayed in the Indian Paint Brush Room, which was incredibly cozy and had a private balcony. One morning, we even spotted wildlife from there.

Each morning started with a delicious breakfast, and every afternoon they hosted a happy hour where guests could relax and chat. But the highlight was definitely the family-style Christmas dinner. It felt festive and intimate. A beautiful way to spend the holiday away from home.

And then there was Bailey, the sweetest pup who made our snow days even more magical.

The location of Bentwood Inn is perfect. It’s tucked between Jackson Hole and Teton Village, so exploring both areas is easy. If you’re planning a winter trip and want something charming and peaceful, I truly recommend staying here.

Now that spring is here, I find myself missing those winter vibes more than I expected. The slow mornings. The soft crunch of snow under our boots. The way the mountains looked at sunset, glowing pink and gold.

If you’re planning your next winter escape, here’s why Jackson Hole is worth considering:

• You get a true white Christmas experience.

• Snow activities like snowmobiling, skiing, and wildlife viewing are at their best.

• Hot springs feel even more magical in freezing temperatures.

• Wildlife is easier to spot.

• Cozy inns and mountain lodges make the holidays feel intimate and special.

It’s perfect for couples, families, or even solo travelers who want peace and natural beauty. You can make it adventurous with snow tours and national park drives, or keep it simple with cozy evenings by the fire.

Looking back, choosing Jackson Hole over an international trip was truly one of the best decisions we made. It reminded us that you don’t always have to travel across the world to experience something unforgettable. Sometimes, the most meaningful memories come from slowing down, embracing the season, and being fully present.

All you really need is fresh snow under your boots, quiet mountain views, and the people you love right beside you.

If you’re planning a winter escape this year, maybe it’s time to trade crowded airports for peaceful snowy roads, and let Jackson Hole surprise you the same way it surprised us. And if you’d like more ideas to help plan your trip, feel free to explore some of our other winter travel blogs for more inspiration, tips, and cozy stays to add to your itinerary. 

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo