Chasing Gold in Jackson Hole

Monay Olson • October 23, 2026

September in the Tetons: Fall Colors, Scenic Rivers, Crisp Mountain Days & the Fall Arts Festival


There’s something special about September in Jackson Hole. Summer’s busy rhythm begins to soften, mornings turn crisp, and hints of gold start appearing across the valley. Before long, entire stands of aspen glow against evergreen forests and blue Wyoming skies.


September invites you to slow down a little. Take the scenic route. Float quietly down the Snake River. Spend an afternoon casting a fly. Pack the camera and follow the color south of town. And this year, don’t miss Jackson Hole’s signature cultural event — the 42nd annual Fall Arts Festival — running September 9– 20.


This month we’re celebrating Jackson Hole’s golden season and a few of our favorite ways to experience it.


A Quieter Side of Jackson Hole

September is a wonderful shift for the valley. Warm summer days give way to cooler mornings and evenings, while the first autumn colors begin transforming the landscape. For guests, that means plenty of outdoor exploration — with an entirely different atmosphere than peak summer.


Elk Refuge Inn is 1.5 miles north of downtown Jackson — a quick few-minute drive into town for the Fall Arts Festival, restaurants, and galleries — while the

National Elk Refuge stretches directly across the road with the Sleeping Indian framing every sunrise. Head out for a day of leaf-peeping, fishing, or exploring the river, then come home to a quiet room and beautiful views as the evening settles.

| Local tip: Mountain weather can change quickly this time of year. Bring layers and keep a jacket nearby, especially for early mornings and evenings. Book directly at elkrefugeinn.net.


The 42nd Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival

The Fall Arts Festival is one of the oldest and most beloved celebrations of Western and wildlife art in the country — a 12-day event with more than 50

happenings across the valley. This year’s featured artist is contemporary Western painter Ben Steele, and here are the dates worth building a trip around:


▪ Wednesday, Sept 9 · 5–7 p.m. — Grizzly 399 Sculpture Unveiling at the National Museum of Wildlife Art, right up the road from us.

▪ Friday, Sept 11 · 5–8 p.m. — Palates & Palettes Gallery Walk through downtown Jackson, with hors d’oeuvres, wine, and artist meet-and-greets at participating galleries.

▪ Saturday, Sept 12 — Western Visions® Exhibit opens at the National Museum of Wildlife Art.

▪ Sunday, Sept 13 · 10 a.m.–5 p.m. — Arts on the Green at the Center for the Arts lawn, with 50+ local artists.

▪ Saturday, Sept 19 · 8 a.m.–1 p.m. — Jackson Hole QuickDraw & Auction on Town Square — 30 artists create original works in 90 minutes, followed by a live auction of the finished pieces.

| Our tip: If you can only pick one evening, make it Palates & Palettes on Sept 11. Pair it with a stop next door at Wilcox Gallery — just steps from us on Hwy 89 — before heading downtown.

Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival — full schedule →

See Fall from the Snake River

Not every river adventure needs whitewater. A scenic float along the Snake River lets you settle in and watch the mountain views, changing foliage, and

wildlife drift by. Jackson Hole Whitewater offers scenic floats with private Snake River Ranch access, a quieter river experience away from busy public launches.

| Local tip: Bring an extra layer — mornings on the river feel chilly even when afternoons are warm. And keep the camera close.

Jackson Hole Whitewater — Scenic Floats →

Chase the Color, Cast a Line, Listen for the Elk

Take the Scenic Route: Palisades & Snake River Canyon

For a beautiful fall drive beyond the busiest park routes, head south from Jackson toward Hoback Junction and continue through the Snake River Canyon

toward Alpine. The route follows the Snake between forested mountainsides with plenty of changing foliage and classic Wyoming scenery. Take your time; watch for safe pullouts. Color often peaks from mid toward the end of September, but Mother Nature keeps her own schedule — ask our team about current

conditions before heading out.

Fly Fishing in the Golden Season

For anglers, September is prime dry-fly season on rivers throughout Jackson Hole and one of the best months for guided trips on the Snake River. Beginners

welcome — guided experiences are available at every skill level. There’s something wonderfully peaceful about standing beside (or floating down) a Wyoming river on a crisp September day. Reserve ahead; September books up fast.

Grand Teton Fly Fishing — September trip timing →

Listen for the Bugling Elk

September kicks off the elk rut, and if you’re lucky you’ll hear the haunting bugle of a bull elk echo across the valley at dawn or dusk. Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding meadows are the best places to listen — one of the signature sounds of fall in Jackson Hole.

Fall in Jackson Hole →

The Great Jackson Hole Burger Stop

After a scenic drive, morning on the river, or afternoon at the Fall Arts Festival, September calls for something simple and satisfying: a really good burger. Jackson has plenty of contenders.

Billy’s Burgers

A Jackson favorite with a long local history. Billy’s serves its famous half-pound burgers alongside waffle fries, barbecue, sandwiches, shakes, and other casual

favorites — now located at the Virginian Lodge, keeping the nostalgic spirit of the original alive.

Billy’s Burgers →

Liberty Burger

Just north of Town Square, Liberty Burger puts creative spins on the classic American burger — from straightforward favorites to adventurous combinations. An easy downtown stop after an afternoon exploring the shops.

Liberty Burger →

Jackson Drug & Original Soda Fountain

For a burger with a side of Jackson Hole history, head to Jackson Drug. The original opened in 1919, and today the restored soda fountain continues the

tradition just off Town Square — classic American favorites with locally sourced ingredients, including beef from the family’s Jackson Hole Hereford Ranch. Save room for a house-made milkshake.

| Local tip: Turn lunch into a mini downtown adventure — grab a burger, stroll Town Square, browse the shops, and enjoy Jackson at a slower September pace.

Jackson Drug →

Come Home to the View

September days are made for exploring, but the evenings might be our favorite part. After chasing fall colors, floating the Snake, or spending the afternoon

downtown at Palates & Palettes, return to Elk Refuge Inn and watch the light change across the National Elk Refuge. Open the window to crisp mountain air.

Make something warm to drink. Watch the last light settle over the Sleeping Indian.


Summer may be slipping away, but Jackson Hole isn’t finished putting on a show. Sometimes the quieter season leaves the biggest impression.

Book Your Stay at Elk Refuge Inn →

A Preview of October

October brings the last call for many Grand Teton and Yellowstone services, the first dusting of snow on the peaks, a little Halloween magic on Town Square, and the beginning of the elk herds’ annual migration back to the National Elk Refuge — right across the road from us. Full picture in next month’s edition.


Share Your Golden Moments


Did you find the perfect patch of golden aspens? Float the Snake?

Catch your first trout? Pick up a piece at Palates & Palettes?

We’d love to see the moments that made your September in Jackson Hole memorable.



Follow along and tag us:

Facebook: facebook.com/ElkRefugeInn

Instagram: @instaerijh

By Monay Olson • October 23, 2026
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By Monay Olson • April 12, 2026
April is a season of renewal — where snow recedes from the valley floor, wildlife becomes more active, and the first signs of spring begin to emerge. The pace softens, offering a more peaceful, reflective experience of Jackson Hole before the summer rush arrives.
By Monay Olson • March 23, 2026
March is a month of transition in Jackson Hole — winter's quiet majesty meeting the first whispers of spring. Wildlife becomes more visible, trails start to emerge, and the valley begins to hum with fresh energy.
By Monay Olson • February 17, 2026
The deep hush of winter in Jackson Hole lingers into February, but beneath that quiet snow-covered landscape you’ll find a warm buzz of culture, creativity, and cozy local experiences. This month is all about embracing robust mountain energy — both inside Elk Refuge Inn and out in the valley — as the season matures and our community comes alive with arts, wellness, and shared adventure. From thoughtful upgrades at the inn to music that moves the soul and outdoor moments that refresh the spirit, February invites you to explore deeper. What’s New at Elk Refuge Inn We’re continuing our room-by-room renovations with new bedroom furniture rolling out this month, following the hardwood floor upgrades we completed in January. These updates reflect thoughtful guest feedback and a desire to elevate comfort and style — especially for longer stays and cozy winter visits. We’re also thrilled to share that by mid-March we’ll be fully transitioning to all King beds across the inn, offering a more luxurious standard in every room and a consistent, restful sleep experience for every guest.
By Monay Olson • January 10, 2026
As the calendar turns to a new year, a deep sense of renewal settles over Jackson Hole. The holiday buzz softens into a quieter rhythm, where crisp mountain air feels electric with possibility and snow-covered landscapes invite reflection, restoration, and reconnection. January isn’t just another winter month here — it’s an invitation to slow down, reset, and experience Jackson Hole in a more intentional way. At Elk Refuge Inn, we love this season for its calm beauty, wildlife sightings, and space to breathe. We’re excited to share what’s new at the inn, along with meaningful local events and winter favorites that make this time of year so special. What’s New at Elk Refuge Inn We’re starting the year with exciting updates behind the scenes! Right now, we’re installing new hardwood floors , completing the work one room at a time so we can remain open and welcoming guests throughout the process. This upgrade includes removing carpet and replacing it with hard flooring for a cleaner, brighter, and more modern feel. We’ve listened closely to guest feedback, and many travelers now strongly prefer hard floors — especially for comfort, cleanliness, and allergy-friendly stays. Our goal is to complete this phase by February , and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome guests into these refreshed spaces. Sneak peek of what’s coming next: More updates are on the horizon, including new bedroom furniture and, beginning in March , a transition to all King beds (no Queens) — designed to elevate comfort and consistency across every stay. Find Your Rhythm in Nature One of the most powerful ways to embrace wellness in January is simply stepping outside. Start your morning with a peaceful walk or snowshoe adventure along the pathways bordering the National Elk Refuge , located just across the street from the inn. The crunch of snow underfoot, your breath rising in the cold air, and the chance to witness majestic elk herds moving quietly across the landscape — this is wellness in its purest form. These moments ground you, clear your mind, and set a calm, mindful tone for the day ahead. Local Events Rooted in Wildlife & Conservation Jackson Hole visitors are famously passionate about wildlife and conservation, and January offers meaningful ways to connect with the causes that protect the places we love. International Fly Fishing Film Festival (IF4) Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Presented by Jackson Hole One Fly & Jackson Hole Trout Unlimited https://tu.myeventscenter.com/event/International-Fly-Fishing-Film-Festival-119760 This beloved festival celebrates fly fishing culture while spotlighting powerful conservation stories tied to rivers, ecosystems, and community stewardship. It’s a local favorite and a wonderful reason to plan a winter trip around an event that truly reflects the spirit of Jackson Hole. “Guardians of Yellowstone” Film Screening Thursday, January 22, 2026 Presented by Yellowstone Forever https://www.yellowstone.org/yellowstone-cougar-film-premieres/ This inspiring documentary offers a closer look at the ongoing efforts to protect Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone Forever plays a vital role in conservation, education, and stewardship — and attending this screening is a meaningful way to support their mission while visiting Jackson Hole. Chamber Spotlight: Supporting Women & Community Leadership We also want to highlight a special Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce event that speaks to our values as a woman-owned business : “Ditching Perfectionism: Stepping Into Power” January 21, 2026 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Presented by Womentum https://www.jacksonholechamber.com/event/ditching-perfectionism-stepping-into-power-presented-by-womentum/3090/ This event offers tools and resources that extend well beyond a single workshop — empowering women through leadership, confidence, and community support. Many locals stay with us before early morning flights, and this is exactly the kind of event that adds lasting value for both residents and visitors. We proudly promote, follow, and engage with women-led organizations like Womentum and believe in supporting shared visibility and community growth. A Winter Favorite We Always Recommend: Astoria Hot Springs No winter wellness itinerary is complete without a visit to Astoria Hot Springs , one of our most highly recommended local experiences. Overlooking the Snake River, Astoria features multiple pools and a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers. Winter visits are especially magical, with steam rising from the pools as snow falls around you. Helpful tips before you go: Reservations are required (only ~60 spots per time slot — they fill fast) Bring flip flops (snow and ice between pools!) Wear a warm hat or beanie Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen — even in winter Your Cozy Sanctuary for Rest & Reflection After a day of mindful exploration, there’s nothing better than returning to the warm, welcoming comfort of Elk Refuge Inn. Our rooms are designed to be a cozy sanctuary — a place to unwind, reflect, and truly recharge. Curl up with a good book, take in views of the snow-dusted Tetons, and enjoy the deep quiet that makes January in Jackson Hole so restorative. We’d Love to Hear From You Have you stayed with us recently? Attended one of these events? Visited Astoria Hot Springs? We’d love for you to: Share your experience or photos Tell us what you loved most Share tips or ideas you’d like us to feature in future blogs  Your insights help shape our stories and strengthen the connection between guests, locals, and our community. With your permission, we also love spotlighting guest experiences and sharing them on social media. January in Jackson Hole is unforgettable — and we can’t wait to welcome you to your home base for renewal at Elk Refuge Inn.
By Monay Olson • December 13, 2025
December arrives in Jackson Hole like a dream, blanketing the valley in pristine white and filling the crisp air with an unmistakable sense of wonder. The jagged peaks of the Tetons stand watch over a town humming with festive energy, where the glow of holiday lights rivals the brilliance of the winter stars. This is the season for adventure, celebration, and unforgettable moments, and there is no better place to experience it all than from the cozy comfort of Elk Refuge Inn. From thrilling days on the slopes to enchanting evenings in town, Jackson Hole’s December calendar is brimming with events that capture the very soul of winter. Let us be your guide to the must-see moments that will make your holiday escape truly magical. Make our inn your basecamp, and let the adventure begin. Holiday Radiance at Town Square No December visit to Jackson Hole is complete without a pilgrimage to our iconic Town Square. Imagine strolling beneath the four magnificent elk antler arches, each one wrapped in thousands of shimmering white lights that cast an ethereal glow upon the snow. The entire square transforms into a postcard-perfect scene, with towering pines adorned in festive splendor and local shops beckoning with warmth and unique gifts. This is more than just a beautiful sight; it’s the vibrant heart of our community's holiday spirit. Grab a hot cocoa, take a picture that will last a lifetime, and feel the powerful sense of place that makes winter here so special. From your room at Elk Refuge Inn, this enchanting spectacle is just moments away. Winterfest: A Season of Celebration (December 19–31) Prepare for two weeks of pure holiday bliss as Winterfest unfolds across town. This beloved annual tradition is a whirlwind of festive activities designed to delight visitors of all ages. The calendar is packed with special performances, spirited concerts, and family-friendly events that will fill your days and nights with joy. Winterfest is your chance to immerse yourself completely in the festive atmosphere of Jackson Hole. Whether you are captivated by a live musical performance or find the perfect handcrafted gift at a special holiday market, you will be creating memories that sparkle. The energy is infectious, and it’s the perfect way to count down to the New Year. Kids on Snow: Sparking a Lifelong Passion (December 12–14) Are you traveling with future ski champions? The Kids on Snow program that will take plae at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your little ones to the thrill of winter sports in a safe, fun, and encouraging environment. This three-day program is expertly designed to help children build confidence on the snow while making new friends and falling in love with the mountain air. While the kids are learning to carve their first turns with skilled instructors, you can savor the breathtaking winter landscapes or explore the slopes on your own. It's a perfect family adventure that combines learning, laughter, and the unparalleled beauty of a Jackson Hole winter. Your Cozy Winter Sanctuary at Elk Refuge Inn After a day spent exploring the dazzling lights of Town Square or gliding down powdery slopes, there is no better feeling than returning to the warm embrace of the Elk Refuge Inn. Picture yourself settling into one of our comfortable, inviting rooms, the perfect haven to unwind and recharge. Gaze out your window at the serene expanse of the National Elk Refuge, where you might spot majestic herds of elk against a stunning Teton backdrop. Our prime location puts all the best Jackson Hole winter events within easy reach, yet offers a peaceful retreat from the holiday bustle. With genuine hospitality and unparalleled views, Elk Refuge Inn is more than just a place to stay—it's your home in the heart of winter’s wonderland. Book your December getaway today and let the magic of the season captivate you.
By Monay Olson • November 15, 2025
We are overjoyed to announce that Elk Refuge Inn has once again been honored with a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2025! This incredible recognition places us among the top 10% of hotels worldwide, and it marks our fifth consecutive year receiving this award. It’s a distinction rooted entirely in the genuine reviews and stories shared by you, our guests. This award isn't just a plaque on the wall for us; it’s a powerful reflection of the community we’ve built and the unforgettable experiences we strive to create. It’s a testament to our dedicated team, our cherished guests, and the wild, untamed beauty of Jackson Hole that inspires everything we do. We are filled with immense gratitude. Rooted in Jackson Hole: Our Invested Local Team The soul of the Elk Refuge Inn is its people. Our team is made up of passionate, longtime Jackson Hole residents who pour their love for this valley into every aspect of your stay. Their commitment is the secret ingredient that transforms a simple hotel visit into a cherished memory. It’s in the warm, welcoming smile that greets you after a long day of travel and the thoughtful recommendations for a hidden hiking trail. They are the ones ensuring your room is a pristine, cozy sanctuary against the crisp mountain air. They share stories of the valley that you won’t find in any guidebook. This genuine, heartfelt hospitality, born from a deep connection to this place, is what truly sets us apart. This award belongs to them. To Our Guests: A Sincere Thank You We also want to extend our deepest thanks to you, our treasured guests. Your trust in our small inn and the thoughtful reviews you share are the fuel that powers our passion. Reading your stories about watching the sunrise over the Tetons from your window, or the helpful tip from a staff member that made your day, reminds us why we do what we do. You choose the Elk Refuge Inn as your home base for adventure, your quiet retreat from the everyday. Knowing that we’ve played a part in your unforgettable Jackson Hole experience inspires us to continually enhance our hospitality. Your feedback helps us grow, and your loyalty feels like the highest praise we could ever receive. Another Year of Unforgettable Stays Looking ahead, we are more committed than ever to making each stay special. The breathtaking views of the National Elk Refuge, the crisp mountain mornings, and the promise of new adventures will always be here. Our promise is to continue providing the warm, personal service that makes this Jackson Hole hotel feel like home. Whether you're planning a return visit or discovering Jackson Hole for the very first time, we cannot wait to welcome you. Come experience the genuine warmth and spectacular nature that have captured the hearts of travelers from around the world.  From all of us, thank you for being part of our story. —The Elk Refuge Inn Team