A Dog's Weekend in Jackson Hole
Some weekends are made for two legs. This one's made for four.
Here's how to spend three perfect days in Jackson Hole with your best friend by your side, from mountain trails to patio breakfasts to a well-earned treat at the end of it all.
Friday: Arrival Day
Check in to The Cloudveil, right on Town Square. Two dogs per room are welcome here, and the hotel sends you off right with a dog bed, water bowl, and treats waiting when you arrive, courtesy of MODERNBEAST and Biscuit Bar.
Photographer: Michael Lloyd
Once you're settled, take the short walk to MODERNBEAST at 165 E. Deloney, The Cloudveil's only retail space, to say hello and pick up anything you forgot to pack. Pop into Workshop for a wide collection of goods from local artists and across the street you will also find Lela Rose and beautiful western wear.
Photographer: Grace Peck (left & right), Sam Redmond (middle)
With the afternoon still ahead, head to Cache Creek Trailhead and walk the Hagen Trail. It's an easy way to stretch your legs after the travel day, with the creek nearby for your dog to cool off. Just remember: leash up in the parking lot and staging area, even if the trail itself allows voice control off leash.
Bear spray reminder: carry it on every hike here, not just the backcountry. Dogs can startle or draw in wildlife, so it's worth having on hand and knowing how to use before you need it.
Saturday: Farmers Market & Alpine Lake
Start the morning with breakfast on the patio at Persephone Bakery. Coffee, pastries, and a dog-friendly outdoor table make for an easy start before the day picks up.
Photo Credit: Persephone
From there, wander over to the Jackson Hole Farmers Market for local produce, makers, and the kind of small-town Saturday energy that's hard to find anywhere else.
By mid-morning, point the car toward Teton Pass for the hike up to Ski Lake. It's a moderate climb through the forest, but the payoff is worth it: a beautiful alpine lake perfect for a swim before you head back down. Bring water for your dog and watch the current if the lake is running high.
Photographer: Grace Peck (left & middle), Michael Lloyd (right)
Paw check: rocky trail sections and hot afternoon sun can heat up quickly. Test the ground with your hand before setting out, and pack booties if your dog runs hot on rough terrain.
Tick check: sagebrush and grassy areas around the pass are prime tick territory in summer. Do a full check on your dog (and yourself) once you're back at the car. Ask your veterinarian about tick prevention options.
After the hike, reward the effort with a drink at The Stagecoach Bar in Wilson. It's an iconic Jackson Hole gathering spot, and the outdoor seating welcomes dogs happy to relax after a big day on the trail.
Sunday: Slow Morning, Mountain Views
Ease into the last day by walking Emily Stevens Park, where the Snake River and open space make for an easy, relaxed finish to the weekend. The Teton views from here are some of the best in town, and it's a fitting last stop before you point the car home.
Pro tip: grab yourself Creekside Market sandwiches before your walk to have a picnic riverside.
Photographer: Ryan Stafford (left), Grace Peck (right)
A few reminders before you go: never leave your dog in a hot car, even on mild days. Give wildlife plenty of space, especially moose, which are drawn to dogs more than almost any other trigger. And always pack out what you pack in, so Jackson Hole stays wild and beautiful for the next dog who visits.
