Ultimate Scenic Drives Around Jackson Hole

A Guide To Our Favorite Jackson Hole Scenic Drives – Moose‑Wilson Road, Teton Pass & Snake River Canyon

There’s something magical about hopping off the raft, jumping behind the wheel, and exploring the hidden corners of Jackson Hole by car. As locals who spend almost every day on the Snake River, we love showing guests how the same water that carries our boats carves through canyons and feeds the wildflowers that paint our hillsides. These scenic drives are perfect for a layover day, a rest morning, or a post‑float adventure, and they’ll put you in the heart of the mountains and wildlife we cherish.

Moose‑Wilson Road – A Wild Corridor Between Mountains and Wetlands

The Moose‑Wilson Road is a short, narrow byway that packs a big punch. This eight‑mile stretch from Teton Village to the park headquarters in Moose winds through chokecherry and hawthorn bushes. The dense vegetation and wetlands create a haven for wildlife; beavers build dams in the ponds, blue herons stalk the shallows, and moose often munch on willows next to the roadway. In late summer and fall, bears feast on the berries, so watch from a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Because the road is so wild, it is closed to motor vehicles from November 1 until conditions permit, usually mid‑May. The National Park Service may also close it temporarily if grizzlies are active. Bring your national park pass; it is required whether you are entering from Teton Village (Granite Canyon Entrance) or from the entrance near Moose Village. When open, the road is gravel and narrow, and trailers and RVs are discouraged, so take it slow and pull over for photos at the many overlooks.

Not‑to‑miss stops:

• Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve: A serene visitor center with short hikes, exhibits, and restrooms.
  
• Granite Canyon, Phelps Lake, and Death Canyon trailheads: Access to some of our favorite hikes, ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging canyon climbs.
• Moose habitat overlook: A safe spot to look for our namesake animals.

Grand Teton National Park Inner & Outer Loop – Driving Next to Giants

The 42‑mile loop through Grand Teton National Park allows you to circle the range. The inner loop road skirts the base of the Tetons, weaving past lakes and trailheads and giving you the closest possible view by car. The outer loop (US 89/191/26) runs farther east with sweeping vistas of the entire skyline. Locals recommend driving north on the main highway and south on the inner loop; this way you’re always facing the mountains.

Along the inner loop, stop at Jenny Lake Loop for a quiet three‑mile detour, or park at Signal Mountain and drive the paved road to the 7,720‑foot summit for 360‑degree views. Continue north to Jackson Lake; enjoy lunch at Signal Mountain Lodge or Jackson Lake Lodge and watch for elk, bears, and Trumpeter swans along the shore. When you reach Moran Junction, turn right onto the outer loop and head south toward Jackson; evening light paints the mountains gold.

Driving tips:

• The inner loop road closes to vehicle traffic from roughly November to early May; check road status before heading out.
• The loop passes ranger stations and visitor centers; grab hiking maps and ask about trail conditions.
• Pack snacks and water; services are limited once you’re in the park.

Teton Pass – Wildflowers, Mountain Views and Small Town Charm

Heading west out of Jackson on Highway 22, the road climbs Teton Pass and drops into the Idaho side of the range. The pass begins in the hamlet of Wilson, where a hearty breakfast at Nora’s Fish Creek Inn or a to‑go bagel from Pearl Street Bagels will fuel your climb. Mid‑way up, a parking lot and dirt road lead to Phillips Canyon; hike the four‑mile round‑trip to Ski Lake to stretch your legs and enjoy fields of Lupine and Indian paintbrush. At the summit, snap a photo with the “Howdy Strangers” sign and soak in the sweeping views of Jackson Hole and Teton Valley. The pass crests at 8,431 feet! 

Wildflowers explode along Teton Pass in mid‑July through early August. Look for yellow Balsamroot and purple Lupine on the slopes, but please stay on trails to protect the fragile alpine meadows. During winter, the pass is subject to storms and avalanches; trailers are prohibited from November 15 through April 1, and the highway may close for maintenance or weather. Always check WY DOT’s road reports before you go and carry chains or snow tires in winter.

Make it a day trip:

• Stop at the small towns of Victor and Driggs in Idaho for huckleberry milkshakes, farmers markets, and mountain‑bike trails.
• Combine the pass with a visit to Grand Targhee Resort for summer chairlift rides and wildflower hikes.
• In winter, cross‑country ski or snowshoe the pass on days when the road closes to vehicles (check local avalanche reports).

Snake River Canyon – Road Trip with a River View

For a drive that hugs our beloved Snake River, head south from Jackson on US 89 through the Snake River Canyon toward Alpine. This 22‑mile route traces the river’s bends, crosses photo‑worthy bridges, and passes buttes and mountains. Pull into one of the many boat ramps or scenic pull‑outs to watch whitewater rafters tackle the Lunch Counter and Kahuna rapids or to cast a line for trout. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the Lunch Counter overlook or continue to Palisades Reservoir for a swim and a cool breeze. At Astoria Bridge, soak in the natural hot springs (reservations may be required during peak times).

Because this corridor serves as a commuter route and recreation hub, traffic can be heavy in summer. Drive attentively, and be prepared for construction or temporary closures. There are no services between Jackson and Alpine, so fill your tank, bring water, and restrooms are limited. In winter, the canyon can be icy; check weather and road conditions before venturing out.

Highlights:

• Lunch Counter / Kahuna Overlook: Picnic tables and a front‑row seat to watch rafts and people surfing the waves.
• Astoria Hot Springs: A developed complex of hot pools overlooking the river; reservations are highly recommended since they frequently sell out.
• Palisades Reservoir: A sprawling lake near Alpine with beaches and boat launches.

Planning Your Scenic Drive Adventure

All of these drives can be done in half a day, but we encourage you to slow down and savor them. Check road conditions and closures before you go! Moose‑Wilson Road closes from November 1 until mid‑May and may close for bears; Teton Pass prohibits trailers from Nov 15–Apr 1; and the inner loop road is closed to vehicles in winter. Wildflowers peak on Teton Pass in mid‑July to early August, while fall brings golden aspens and elk bugles along the inner loop and Moose‑Wilson Road.

As you explore, remember that we’re here to share the magic of the Snake River in every way possible. A scenic drive pairs perfectly with a Snake River scenic float trip, so start your day on the water with us, then hit the road to see where the river goes next. Our guides are happy to recommend the best pull‑outs, trailheads, and local eateries. After all, we’ve spent decades exploring every bend and valley. See you on the river and on the road!