Wilson – Jackson Hole’s Hidden Gem

Wilson – Jackson Hole’s Hidden Gem

red barn in snow - wilson wyoming

We get asked a lot if we’re located in Jackson. We’re actually in Wilson, which is in Jackson Hole. Jackson Hole is a valley with the Teton Range to the west, the Gros Ventre Wilderness to the east, and the Snake River winding its way down the middle from its headwaters in Yellowstone National Park. Wilson is one of many “towns” within the valley, really a small crossroads west of the Snake River, along highway WY 22 before it heads up the Teton Pass into Idaho.

According to the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, “In the early nineteenth century mountain men explored this part of the Oregon Territory after members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition skirted it. The term ‘hole’ was used by these early mountain men who entered the valley primarily from the north and east. In doing so they had to descend steep slopes, giving them the sensation of entering a hole. Jackson pays homage to David E. Jackson, an early partner in the Rocky Mountain Fur Company, a pioneer in western exploration.”

There are so many things to do in Jackson Hole, and Wilson is the perfect base to explore the area. Wilson is just 7 miles from the Town Square in Jackson and 9 miles from Teton Village, the home of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and world-famous alpine skiing.  Wilson was founded in 1899 by Nick Wilson, one of Wyoming’s first Pony Express couriers.  While it remains primarily a residential community, it also features Hungry Jack’s General Store, Nora’s Fish Creek Inn, Stagecoach Bar & Streetfood, and the Teton Raptor Center, which are all favorites of locals and visitors alike.

When you visit the Jackson Hole Hideout, fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). If you can, rent an all-wheel-drive vehicle so you have the freedom to explore our big, beautiful valley.