April is one of Jackson Hole’s most underrated months. As winter loosens its grip and wildlife begins to stir, visitors are rewarded with fewer crowds, dramatic spring landscapes, and some of the year’s best opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat.
Here are eleven of the best things to do in Jackson Hole in April, especially if wildlife and quiet exploration are at the top of your list.
1. Join a Guided Wildlife Safari
April is a transition month for wildlife, and knowing where to look makes all the difference. Guided wildlife safaris focus on lower elevation habitats where animals concentrate as snow recedes. Bears begin emerging from dens, elk and bison shift feeding patterns, and predators become more visible.
Professional naturalist guides provide insight, spotting expertise, and ethical viewing practices that independent travelers often miss.
2. Explore Grand Teton National Park Without Summer Crowds
While not all park roads are open, April offers access to scenic valleys, overlooks, and wildlife corridors without the congestion of peak season. Snow-capped peaks rise above open sagebrush flats, creating striking contrasts unique to spring.
3. Watch Bears Emerge From Winter Dens
April marks the beginning of bear activity in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Black bears are typically seen first, with occasional early grizzly sightings depending on conditions. Observing these animals from a safe distance is one of spring’s most memorable experiences.
4. Photograph Spring Snow and Seasonal Wildlife Behavior
April delivers some of the most dramatic lighting and contrast of the year. Melt patterns, lingering snowbanks, and early wildflowers create a diverse backdrop for photographing moose, elk, and bison as they forage at lower elevations before the deep snow melts higher up. The shifting season offers a fresh set of wildlife behaviors as animals prepare for the months ahead. Taking a photography tour can help you maximize your chances at capturing stunning images.
5. Experience the Calm of Shoulder Season
April sits between winter and summer, offering a quieter, more relaxed version of Jackson Hole. Lodging availability improves, roads are less busy, and wildlife encounters feel more intimate without constant traffic or crowds.
6. Explore Jackson Hole’s Town Square and Local Culture
April is an ideal time to experience Jackson itself without peak-season congestion. The historic Town Square is quiet and walkable, galleries and shops are easy to explore, and local restaurants operate at a more relaxed pace before summer crowds arrive.
This slower rhythm allows visitors to connect with the community, learn about the valley’s ranching and conservation heritage, and enjoy Jackson’s authentic character without long waits or packed sidewalks. For travelers who value place-based experiences, April offers a more genuine introduction to Jackson Hole.
7. Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art
When spring weather is unpredictable, the National Museum of Wildlife Art offers a meaningful indoor experience. Its collection provides cultural and ecological context that deepens appreciation for the animals seen in the field.
8. Experience Early-Season Birdwatching
Spring migration begins in April, bringing trumpeter swans, bluebirds, raptors, and early songbirds back to the valley. With snow still visible on the peaks, the contrast of bright plumage against the landscape makes this a compelling time for bird enthusiasts.
9. Enjoy Early Spring Hiking at Lower Elevations
Some valley trails become accessible as snow melts. Hikers should be mindful of muddy conditions and wildlife presence, maintaining appropriate distance and respecting trail closures.
10. Plan a Multi-Day Wildlife Experience
For travelers with flexibility, April is an ideal time to combine Grand Teton and Yellowstone wildlife experiences. Multi-day tours allow guides to adapt to changing conditions, personal preferences, and maximize daily wildlife opportunities.
11. Soak in a Local Hot Spring After a Day of Wildlife Viewing
April’s cool mornings and lingering snow make hot springs especially appealing in Jackson Hole. After a day spent searching for wildlife or exploring the valley, soaking in a natural hot spring is a restorative way to warm up and unwind.
Popular options include Granite Hot Springs, located south of town in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and Astoria Hot Springs, closer to Jackson and open year-round. Spring runoff and mountain views create a distinctly seasonal atmosphere that feels especially rewarding after time in the field.
April rewards travelers who value wildlife, space, and expert guidance. With fewer distractions and increased animal activity, it is one of the most authentic times to experience Jackson Hole’s wild character!
FAQs
Is April a good time to visit Jackson Hole?
Yes. April is a shoulder season with fewer crowds and excellent wildlife viewing, particularly for bears, elk, and bison.
What wildlife can you see in Jackson Hole in April?
Common sightings include elk, bison, moose, wolves, coyotes, and emerging black bears, with occasional early grizzly activity.
Are Grand Teton National Park roads open in April?
Some lower elevation roads and scenic areas are open, while higher elevation routes may remain closed due to snow.
Is April good for wildlife tours in Jackson Hole?
April is one of the best months for guided wildlife tours because animals concentrate at lower elevations and crowds are minimal.
What should I pack for Jackson Hole in April?
Layered clothing, waterproof footwear, warm outer layers, and binoculars are essential due to variable spring conditions.
