Top 5 Places to see Fall Foliage & Colors in Jackson Hole, WY

Use this guide to scope out the beautiful scenery in Jackson Hole this fall!

Home to two national parks, miles upon miles scenic roads and some of the most stunning mountain views you'll ever encounter — all of which are enhanced each fall with the glow of amber, red and gold leaves that signal the beginning of autumn — it's of no surprise that Jackson Hole is the perfect destination for a fall vacation. Here are a few of our favorite places in the region to scope out breathtaking fall scenery.

Trees with golden leaves along a river in the fall in Yellowstone National Park.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Witnessing Yellowstone National Park in the fall is a true spectacle. Everywhere you look, you’ll see gorgeous shades of red, orange, and yellow, as opposed to the typical vibrant greens of summer. Perhaps the most enticing sign of fall in Yellowstone is the transition of the aspen trees into a bright, golden yellow that glows in the sun. Throughout the season, visitors can watch the aspens go from bright yellow, to a deeper gold, and then eventually a dark red before they fall from the trees. Other foliage to keep an eye on this season is cottonwood trees, deciduous trees, red leaf shrubs, and even the grass fields as they turn a sunny yellow. When planning your autumn trip to Yellowstone, be aware that most of its roads close for the winter in November!

Trees with orange and yellow leaves along a calm body of water with a large mountain in the background in Grand Teton National Park.

2. Oxbow Bend

If you’re seeking a view that looks straight out of a nature screensaver, look no further. Oxbow Bend is a scenic overlook in Grand Teton National Park that provides the perfect perspective of Snake River and a patch of ever-changing aspen trees against the landscape of the rocky Tetons.

In addition to the prime leaf-peeping location, visitors are likely to spot plenty of wildlife such as moose or various bird species by the lake. We recommend going on a crisp fall morning to catch the sunrise and enjoy a serene moment without the distractions of summertime crowds.

3. Schwabacher's Landing

Not far from Oxbow Bend is Schwabacher’s Landing, which also provides spectacular views of Snake River and the Teton Mountains. This spot is an access point for boaters and fishermen, so expect some hustle and bustle throughout the day.

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be awestruck by the reflection of the mountain range on the water, in contrast with the autumn-colored foliage of the forest. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a hike on the 4-mile path that traces Snake River to truly absorb all the sights of fall time in Grand Teton National Park.

Three bears walk along a paved road surrounded by trees with yellow autumn leaves in Jackson Hole, WY.

4. Moose-Wilson Road

One of the must-see scenic drives in Jackson Hole is down Moose-Wilson Road, which starts at the entrance to the Grand Teton National Park and ends at the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center. In the fall, this 8-mile road reveals countless views of trees and bushes tinted with warm autumn colors, as well as rolling hillsides and marshes.

Be sure to drive slow though, because this is a highly active wildlife area! Look out for moose, bears, owls, and beavers lurking in the chokecherry bushes, or maybe even crossing the street in front of you. Moose-Wilson Road closes to all vehicles on November 1st each year, so plan your visit before then to witness the pure beauty of Wyoming in the fall.

5. Aerial Tram Ride

If you’d rather view the fall foliage of Jackson Hole from a birds-eye-view, we have an option for that, too. Go for a ride on the Aerial Tram at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and you’ll truly see it all! The tram takes visitors to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, where there are 360 degree views of Jackson Hole and beyond.

On the way up, you’ll see a mirage of autumn colors passing below, and it’s unlike any other sightseeing experience in Jackson. Once at the summit, you can choose to hike down the mountain in the crisp fall air, or you can ride back down in the tram. This closes for the season in early October, so you can still catch the early stages of fall.

There are infinite ways to savor the unique charm of fall in Jackson Hole, and we encourage you to discover all that you can during your time here in town!