May in Jackson Hole: Wildlife, Wildflowers & Wide Open Spaces
Spring fully arrives, bringing longer days, blooming landscapes, and renewed energy across the valley.
May is a time of awakening — snow has largely melted from the valley floor, wildlife is highly active, and the first wildflowers begin to color the landscape. It’s one of the most peaceful and rewarding times to experience Jackson Hole, and this year it comes with big news: both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are now open for the season.
May: Your Window Before Peak Season
May is the sweet spot in Jackson Hole. The parks are fully open, the days are getting longer, and you’re still ahead of the peak summer rush and pricing that comes with June and July. The weather can be hit or miss — you might get bluebird skies or a spring snow shower — but that’s part of the charm, and it keeps the crowds thin. If you’ve been thinking about a summer trip, now is the time to lock it in.
Make Your Summer Bookings Now
We’re currently about 60% booked for the summer and typically reach 80% by the end of May. If you’re planning a visit this season, we’d love to have you — but don’t wait too long. Our King bed rooms, Teton views, and location right on the National Elk Refuge fill up fast once summer hits.
Book directly at elkrefugeinn.net for the best rates before peak season pricing begins.
Local Events to Enjoy in May
As the valley transitions into early summer, Jackson Hole’s signature events return.
Old West Days — 44th Annual
May 16 – May 25, 2026
A beloved Jackson Hole tradition celebrating Western heritage and culture. Events include live music, local food, rodeo experiences, and the iconic Town Square festivities.
Our pick: Don’t miss the High Noon Chili Cook-Off on the Town Square — an all-you-can-eat celebration of local recipes that’s always a highlight. It’s one of those only-in-Jackson experiences you won’t forget.
The Parks Are Open — And the Wildlife Is Incredible
If you read our April blog, you’ll remember we teased the park openings. Well, the wait is over — Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone are now fully open for the season, and May is arguably the most magical time to visit.
Wildlife Is the Star of the Show
This is why most people come to Jackson Hole — and May delivers like no other month. The valley and the parks are alive right now:
■ Bears are out. Both grizzlies and black bears have emerged from hibernation and are actively foraging at lower elevations. Female bears with cubs are increasingly visible — this is one of the most exciting wildlife events of the year. Keep your distance and bring binoculars.
■ Bison calving season. May is peak calving time for bison in Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Watch for the adorable “red dogs” — newborn calves with reddish-orange coats bouncing alongside the herd. Born weighing 30–70 pounds, they can keep up with the herd just hours after birth.
■ Baby cows on the open range. Right now you’ll spot calves out on the ranch lands surrounding Jackson — little ones resting with their heads nestled into the hay, still nursing from mama. It’s one of those small, charming moments that makes this valley feel so special.
■ Moose, elk & migratory birds. Moose frequent the wetlands, elk herds are active, and migratory birds — including loons and ibises — are passing through on their journey north.
What to bring: Layered clothing · Hiking shoes · Camera · Binoculars
Local Favorites for May
The Silver Dollar Bar & Grill — Flip for Your Lunch
Inside the historic Wort Hotel, the Silver Dollar Bar is a Jackson Hole institution — its famous bar is inlaid with 2,032 uncirculated 1921 silver dollars. But here’s the fun part:
Local tip: At lunch, they’ll flip a real silver dollar
for you — guess the right side and your lunch is free. The entry is just $2, and it’s donated to a local nonprofit. Win or lose, it’s a blast and supports the community.
Hand Fire Pizza — Wood-Fired & Community-Driven
Hand Fire makes organic, wood-fired pizza in the historic Teton Theater — everything is handmade with the freshest local ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for unwinding after a day in the parks.
■ Pizza for a Purpose: On rotating Tuesday nights throughout the year, Hand Fire donates a portion of sales to a local nonprofit. Great pizza, great cause.
■ Our recommendation: Pair any of their wood-fired pies with a glass of Cava red sparkling — it’s a combination that’s hard to beat.
Your Sanctuary in Spring
Returning to Elk Refuge Inn in May offers the perfect balance — access to everything, yet a peaceful retreat just outside the bustle. Enjoy open views, fresh mountain air, and the quiet comfort of your King bed as the valley shifts into one of its most vibrant seasons.
We’d Love to Hear from You
Attended Old West Days?
Spotted bears or bison calves in the parks?
Found a new favorite trail or dining spot?
We love sharing guest stories — with your permission — and celebrating what makes Jackson Hole special through your experiences.
