What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

Dude ranch reservations? Check. Travel arrangements made? Check. All the boxes are being marked. The one variable in a dude ranch vacation that can be less predictable is the weather. We haven’t quite figured out a way to control the weather, but we do have suggestions on how to prepare for ranch life and Wyoming dude ranch weather.

Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather can change on a dime, but good news is the storms usually roll in and out quickly.

When thinking of the Wild West one tends to imagine hot sunshine, beautiful mountains, majestic wild horses, and dusty old cowboys. While some of those things are true and others have been somewhat tamed, Wyoming’s western weather still remains untamed and unpredictable.

Foggy morning on Goosewing Ranch shows just how varied the weather can be on a Wyoming dude ranch vacation.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is one of those places that is still a little wild, yet filled with wonderful adventure. Being in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, the area is prone to diverse weather patterns.  One thing you can count on with the weather in this vast area is that no matter the season, it could always snow on you.  Now, don’t let this turn you off and make you start thinking about that sandy beach vacation again. Just because it could snow in July in Wyoming doesn’t mean that your experience will be any less amazing.

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

Yes, that's snow around our teepee at Goosewing Ranch.

Snowy Teepee at Goosewing Ranch

Weather in any mountain region can be difficult to understand. Mountains produce their own weather and also make it difficult to see weather moving in; you just never know what to expect when setting off for a fun day hike or family horseback ride. Most of the summer months are filled with warm, arid (dry) days and clear, cool evenings.

If weather moves in, it is usually gone as fast as it arrived. Some thunderstorms may only last about 10 minutes, and just because it is storming doesn’t mean the sun won’t still shine. Then after the storm has passed, all is right in the Gros Ventre river valley again. The dust is gone, the air is fresh, and the grass is green.

This diverse weather pattern can turn the average day into a great story making adventure. Just think about what the real cowboys and mountain men went through year after year, and take the weather in stride. The horseback riding and many other activities can still be enjoyed even when the weather is less than favorable.

Average Temps at Goosewing Ranch:
June High and Low: 68 / 35
July High and Low: 76 / 42
August High and Low: 75 / 43
September High and Low: 65 / 33

A fiery sunset over the Gros Ventre Valley shows how beautiful the weather conditions can be.

Fire in the sky at Goosewing Ranch.

A snowy June day can also give you a chance to relax by the fire, catch up with family and friends, and a reason to treat yourself to a soothing massage. So next time you are planning a vacation to the Jackson Hole area, remember to pack a bit of everything, leave for activities prepared for anything, and take the weather in stride. After the storm comes the most amazing rainbows!

After rain showers comes a rainbow-the horses are the proverbial pot of gold at the end of this rainbow!

Remember our guides and wranglers at Goosewing Ranch are trained to keep you safe. They have gear available for you to help you stay warm and dry, and will do their best to always make the best out of any situation. We also have links that will help with packing and planning a Jackson Hole vacation.

When thinking of the Wild West one tends to imagine hot sunshine, beautiful mountains, majestic wild horses, and dusty old cowboys. While some of those things are true and others have been somewhat tamed, Wyoming's western weather still remains untamed and unpredictable. Get ready for a Wyoming dude ranch vacation by being informed about what to expect with the weather and how to get ready. #Wyoming #thatsWY #JacksonHole #duderanch #weather

Jackson Hole Must See Spots

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is filled with many must see spots. Use our list of the best destinations in Jackson Hole and make sure not to miss the most memorable and most photographed spots.


Jackson Hole must see spots include the Antler Arches in downtown Jackson.

Jackson Hole Must See Spots

  1. Grand Tetons

  2. Mormon Row

  3. Teton Village

  4. Antler Arches

When you hear Jackson Hole, what is the first thing to come to mind?  Maybe the Grand Tetons, Mormon Row, the Teton Village, or Antler Arches. Hands down, these are just a few of the most popular features in the valley.

1. Grand Tetons

No visit to Jackson Hole is complete without a trek to see the Grand Tetons.

Named by French trappers, the three peaks are now known as the South, Middle, and Grand Teton. They called the mountains “Les Trois Tetons,” or “The Three Breasts.” It is the youngest mountain range in the Rockies. Spanning 40 miles long and 8 miles wide, the highest peak measures in at 13,770 feet (Grand Teton) and it has 8 peaks that are over 12,000 feet!

The Grand Tetons are a highlight of any visit to Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Fact: Grand Teton National Park was approved by President Calvin Coolidge on February 26, 1929. This act protected the Teton Range and six glacial lakes but not nearby Jackson Hole.

Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

2. Mormon Row

Mormon Row was an early homesteading settlement in Jackson Hole before the Grand Teton National Park was formed. Mormons from Salt Lake Valley set out to establish new communities, and they clustered their farms to share labor. Their community was known as Mormon Row.

The famous Moulton Barn is probably the most photographed barn in Wyoming, if not the world. Pretty logical considering its location directly in front of the Grand Tetons!

Moulton Barn is one of the most majestic views, placing it on our Jackson Hole must see spots list.

3. Teton Village

Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the Swiss-styled Teton Village offers restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

In the wintertime, this location bustles with skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Even non-skiing types will love activities like the sleigh ride dinners and dog sled rides.

During the summer, activities in Teton Village include scenic tram rides to the top of Rendezvous Mountain, horseback riding, tandem paragliding flights, hiking and mountain biking trails, and a disc golf course. Learn more about the Tram, called “Big Red”in our post Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram at Teton Village takes guests up to Rendezvous Peak and gives stunning views of Jackson Hole.

4. Antler Arches

Step off, McDonald’s! The Antler Arches put the golden arches to shame. The Antler Arches in Jackson’s Town Square are one of the most iconic spots in all of Jackson Hole. As Jackson transformed from a mountain man town into a dude ranch town, the Antler Arches grew in popularity with family travelers and locals alike.

The 4 Antler Arches flanking the corners of Jackson Town Square are some of the most photographed in all the area.

There are four antler arches, one marking each corner of the town square. Though there isn’t an exact date of when the first arch was built and placed on the town square, most sources cite 1960 as the year the first antler arch was added to the town square. In 2007, they began to replace the arches, and auctioned off the old weathered ones.

Each arch contains about 10,000 pounds of elk antlers. Don’t worry: not one elk was harmed in the making of the arches. Elk grow antlers that they shed annually. Unlike horns that must be cut off and are hollow inside, antlers, fall off naturally and are solid.

Horse drawn carriage tours circle Town Square in Jackson, Wyoming.

Starting May 1, locals, tourist, and the local Boy Scout club hit the National Forests and Elk Refuge in search of the all the antler sheds. Each year at the Old West Days, the Boy Scouts put on an auction where they sell their antlers. Others sell them to jewelers, furniture makers, private deals, dealers from overseas, or just keep them to enjoy in their own homes.

Did you know? See Jackson Hole hosts live webcams all around Jackson, including Town Square. Get your Jackson Hole fix by checking out the happenings around town and in Jackson Hole.

When heading to Jackson Hole, where to first? Here's a list of some Jackson Hole must see spots, highlighting a few of the standouts, including Grand Tetons, Teton Village, Mormon Row and the Antler Arches. #JacksonHole #Wyoming #familytravel #mustseespots

 

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Jackson Hole Dining: Goosewing Ranch Is for Food Lovers

At Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, we pride ourselves on many things, and one element guests continue to praise is our outstanding food. When staying at a dude ranch, guests have had an activity-filled day, often spent horseback riding. So naturally, everyone works up an appetite! We’ve got the menu covered with diverse offerings and made-to-order entrees that are sure to hit the spot.

With all the activities to do while on vacation out West, dude ranch guests develop an abundant appetite.  From hiking in the Grand Tetons, touring through Yellowstone National Park, and horseback riding in the mountains surrounding Goosewing Ranch, you will enjoy the delightful meals being served.

Jackson Hole Dining: Goosewing Ranch Is for Food Lovers

Most meals are served family style in the Main Lodge where we have 3 chefs on staff. Our outdoor kitchen and dining area is a wonderful place for all to enjoy meals and family time. The outdoor dining area features a wood burning oven, covered seating, lighting, and propane above head heaters.

Breakfast

Breakfast is complete with eggs cooked to order, bacon, sausage, pancakes, French toast, and daily specials. In addition, there is a continental buffet with cereal, fruit and homemade pastries.

Breakfast

Lunch

Lunches are usually trailside picnics, but hot lunches are also prepared if you decide to stay at the ranch during the day. We can also provide picnic lunches if you would like to go off on your own for the afternoon.  Picnic lunches are your choice of deli sandwich, chips, fruit, granola, and cookie.

Dinner

Dinners are themed, and can include Prime Rib Night, Southwest Night, French Night, Cowboy Night (steaks), and Angler Night (trout and salmon). Depending on the cuisine, meals may be served plated or buffet style.

Once a week we do an open fire cookout in dutch ovens.  Enjoy an evening under the stars with friends and family while enjoying entertainment!  We encourage families to be together, but will be offering a kids’ cookout and adults dinner throughout the week.

Dining options for dinner include at least two main entree options, a vegetarian option, gluten free option, and a kids’ option. We can accommodate dietary restrictions with advanced notice.

Chef Clint will be serving up some amazing cuisine from basic ranch style food to more gourmet meals.

Wine List

We are pleased to offer a variety of wines from France and South America in keeping with both the French heritage of the area and the owner of the ranch. We are dedicated to giving you the best value possible, and our prices reflect that. Wine by the bottle is offered at retail price, while wine by the glass echoes restaurant price. We would be more than happy to stock a special bottle of wine for you to enjoy during your stay if you let us know before your arrival.

Jackson Hole Dining: Our Food Reviews

Don’t take our word for it. Here are some of the Facebook comments about our ranch:

LeTricia writes: “We just came back from an incredible vacation at Goosewing Ranch…The food was top notch. The staff and wranglers feel like family now. I highly recommend this place.”

“The people are so friendly, very knowledgeable the wranglers were very helpful and took care with everyone. If you went away hungry it was your own fault, Clint, Paula and staff did an excellent job. The scenery was amazing and sometimes breath taking. Would recommend this spot to everyone young and old.”-Michael J.

Read more of our ranch reviews to start planning your dude ranch vacation.

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

One of the most memorable experiences while visiting Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park is a wildlife tour. We recommend wildlife safaris because guests will learn so much more about the national park’s history, wildlife, and the area than if they had driven through on their own. 

Expect wildlife if you are patient on a Jackson Hole wildlife safari; pronghorn are especially plentiful!

When in Jackson Hole, we highly recommend exploring Grand Teton National Park. And one of the most memory making ways is to do a wildlife safari. These guided tours give guests a wonderful way to learn about the natural history of the park along with sightings of its wild residents.

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

Plan for at least 3-4 hours minimum touring time as well as travel time from the departure location for partial day tours. These tips will help you know what to expect of this wildlife encounter.

Choose What Time of Day Works Best for You (Usually Dawn or Dusk).

If morning people, go with a dawn tour; if not, stick with one at dusk. And have a camera at the ready all the way through to the very end of the tour. Animals are especially active at dawn and at dusk.

One of the best finds on a Jackson Hole wildlife safari: a moose.

Dress for the Outdoors.

Check the company website to see what is recommended for clothing. Most encourage that guests wear long pants, closed toed shoes, and bring a jacket. Shorts or capris are appropriate for summer months.

Most companies use open air vehicles and pair up groups. For private tours or more personalized service, private vans are available. So dress accordingly as temperatures fluctuate. Layers are key!

Expect to See Some Wildlife…But No Guarantees.

While safari goers will most likely see wildlife, keep in mind it IS wild animals, not animatronics.  There are no guarantees on what species will be seen. Actually, that’s part of what makes the experience so exciting! Guides do communicate via radio with one another on sightings, so that helps everyone to share in the wildlife spotting.

Be prepared on what to expect on a Jackson Hole wildlife safari by doing your homework-pick a reputable company and keep eyes peeled for wildlife.

Some of the potential animals include elk, moose, mule deer, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, grizzly and black bear, and wolves can all be seen within the park boundaries.

Be prepared to use the tools of the trade.

Binoculars and spotting scope are tools of the tour during a wildlife safari. It may just mean glimpses of animals like wolves or bears, but still exhilarating! 

What to expect on a Jackson Hole wildlife safari: using spotting scopes to see animals like this moose.

Know What’s Included and What’s NOT.

Read the fine print to see what’s part of the tour and what costs extra. Most tours include snacks and refreshments; some dawn tours include breakfast and all day tours usually include meals. However, many do not include the park entry fee. The park entry fee is $20.00 per adult (16 and up), good for seven days. Guests who have a “Golden Age Pass” or an “Interagency Park Pass” can use these passes on the tour. Park passes can be purchased at the park entrance during the tour.

Recommended guide gratuity is also not included and roughly 10-15% of the tour price.

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari? Great scenery, tons of park history, photo worthy spots, and oh yeah, probably some wildlife! Whether a half day or full day tour, learn all about the ins and outs of these animal-centric tours and why you want to try one while visiting Grand Teton National Park. #JacksonHole #wildlifesafari #wildlifetour #nationalpark #GrandTeton #findyourpark

All Aboard Big Red: The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram

What’s rectangle shaped, red, and climbs almost 11,000 feet in less than 10 minutes? It’s the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. Nicknamed Big Red, the aerial tram provides access to Rendezvous Peak (that’s 10,450 feet). What awaits at the top of this vertical climb of 4,139 feet?  360-degree views of the Grand Tetons and Jackson Hole valley!

The Jackson Hole aerial tram is worth taking a ride on; access is at Teton Village in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

The Jackson Hole Aerial Tram climbs to the top of Rendezvous Peak in only 9 minutes.

JACKSON HOLE AERIAL TRAM

Jackson Hole has many amazing modes of transportation, but one of the most memorable has to be the Aerial Tram at the Teton Village. Aptly nicknamed Big Red because…it’s red, this gliding gondola escorts passengers up to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain. It made us wonder: how this amazing feat of engineering come to be?

Originally, the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram was built in the heart of the Grand Tetons and completed in 1966 after 26 months of construction. In 2006, the tram was decommissioned and plans were put into place for a replacement. This new version was completed in unveiled in December 2008.

Tram Stats:

  • Base Area at 6,311 feet
  • Rendezvous Peak Summit 10,450 feet
  • Vertical drop of 4,139 feet
  • 12,463 feet in length
  • 2-car reversible tram carries 100 people per car
  • Uphill capacity of 650 people per hour

Tip: Purchase the Family Tram Ticket online for 2 adults and up to 4 juniors: $ 86/$97 peak season. Bonus: Kids 5 and under are free, so make sure you price it both ways to see if you need a family pass or would be better off individually.

Corbet’s Cabin

Once up top, take in the amazing views. And don’t miss the waffles! Corbet’s Cabin specializes in made to order with delicious toppings like brown sugar butter, Nutella and strawberries, lemon glaze, and peanut butter and bacon. They also has a great selection of hot and cold drinks, beer, snacks and tram souvenirs.

Waffles from Corbet's Cabin are one of the major draws for taking the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram

Between the views and the waffles at Corbet’s Cabin, this is a definite MUST DO. Drink plenty of water on the aerial tram day because the elevation is almost 11,000 feet. 

Corbet's Cabin has gorgeous views and delicious food served at 10, 450 feet.

Learn more about Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park, and why families should choose a dude ranch vacation.

What's rectangle shaped, red, and climbs almost 11,000 feet in less than 10 minutes? It's the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram! All aboard Big Red as we learn about the origins of this gliding gondola, how to save money on tickets, and where to find the most delicious waffles in Jackson Hole. #JacksonHole #TetonVillage #aerialtram #BigRed #Wyoming

Snake River: What You Should Know

Snake River weaves it way through the Western landscape in Wyoming, from Yellowstone down to Grand Teton National Park and into Jackson Hole and beyond. Learn more about this river and why it should be on every Jackson Hole traveler’s list for its awesome water-based activities.

Snake River runs through Grand Teton National Park and spans 6 states including here in Wyoming.

Here at Goosewing Ranch, we love the landscape in our neck of the woods, and one of the natural beauties is the Snake River. This rollicking river wows with Teton views, terrific rapids, and stunning scenery.

Snake River: What You Should Know

Did you know?

  • The Snake River is the 9th longest river in the US at 1,078 miles and the longest tributary of the Columbia River.
  • Its drainage basin covers parts of six states which are Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Oregon, Utah and Washington.
  • The average flow of the river is 1,553 cubic meters per second.

One of the main reasons to explore Snake River is the stunning scenery!

Its Name Was a Misinterpretation

The Snake River likely got its name from European explorers who misinterpreted the sign made by the Shoshone people. The Shoshone made swimming motions which appeared to these explorers to be a snake. In actuality, they were signing that they lived near the river with many fish.

Lewis and Clark were the first American explorers to discover it.

Between 1804 and 1806, Lewis and Clark sailed down the Snake River to the Columbia River. Lewis is credited as the first American to see this river’s drainage basin, so it is often called Lewis Fork.

Snake River offers rafting, scenic floats, and fishing just to name a few popular summer activities. What you need to know before you explore Snake River in jackson Hole, Wyoming and beyond. #JacksonHole #SnakeRiver #GrandTeton #nationalpark #Wyoming

Photo credit: White Water Magazine https://www.whitewatermag.com/

Things to Do on the Snake River

In Jackson Hole, there are many activities centered on Snake River. From rolling rapids to calm waters through Grand Teton National Park, rafting makes the cut on many guests’ wish lists.

Whitewater Rafting

For outdoor fun and an adrenaline boost, whitewater rafting is the way to go. The most popular rafting section of the river stretches from Grand Teton National Park and travels through Jackson Hole.

Scenic floats along the Snake River are photo opportunities at every turn!

Scenic Float

If relaxation and soaking in the scenery is more your speed, then we suggest a scenic float. Enjoy a secluded trip down Snake River inside the Grand Teton National Park for a one-of-a-kind way to see the national park. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars to take in all the wildlife and great shots. Most whitewater companies also offer scenic float excursions.

Fishing

Ask the experts and they will agree that Snake River is perfectly suited for fly fishing whether a beginner or expert. Plus, there are those incomparable views of the Tetons. Many outfitters offer fly fishing in the area and welcome all ages (kids should be old enough to sit in a small drift boat for a half or full day). All fishing in Jackson Hole is catch and release to keep population levels high. We also have fishing here on our ranch to give it a try before taking on Snake River.

If planning any of these activities, be sure to bring appropriate apparel. Check out our packing list of suggested items for a Western vacation.

Fishing is one of the best family activities whether at Goosewing Ranch or on the Snake River during your stay in Jackson Hole.

Horseback Riding Vacations in Jackson Hole

Ever dream of being a cowboy or cowgirl, but couldn’t seem to swing it in the city (or suburbs) where you grew up? Here is your chance to test it out with an all-inclusive vacation to Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming! We feature three to seven nights deep in the beautiful Gros Ventre wilderness only accessible by horseback—just like in the old days.Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole may include a dip in the Gros Ventre River

Horseback Riding Vacations in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

How it works:

You will arrive on the ranch, check in, and then head down to the tack room to meet your horse for the week. Having your own horse lets you become comfortable with your mount and develop a bond that will have you saying “Remember Josh? He was a great horse,” for years to come.

Jackson Hole horseback riding is available for little buckaroos ages 6 and up at Goosewing Ranch.

From beginners to more experienced riders, we have a horse for everyone. This wide variety ensures guests can enjoy all aspects of riding, both on the trails and in the arena, as well as feeling safe and secure with their horse partner. Plus, our kid horses take their job very seriously—the quintessential babysitter when a child is out on a ride.

Catch a glimpse of the impressive landscape surrounding the ranch on different length trail rides, and either return to the ranch for a hot lunch or eat a boxed lunch on the trail with unbeatable Wyoming views.

The scenic views are all around during horseback riding in Jackson Hole on Goosewing Ranch.

 

 

For people wanting to spice up their trail rides and have the necessary riding experience to do so, we offer advanced rides. Get a chance to go on a loping ride or swim with your horse in the river! And if you don’t think you’re capable of loping or riding bareback, take a lesson from one of our experienced wranglers and work up to it.

Whether you’ve never been on a horse or were riding before you were walking, this horseback riding vacation is the perfect getaway if you want to experience the vast remoteness of the Jackson Hole Wyoming region from the saddle.

Horseback riding in Jackson Hole is a wonderful way to explore this area.

–This post was written by Sara Massery.

Need more information about Jackson Hole or riding? Check out these resources:

See Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce

Horseback Riding