Jackson in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Jackson
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak wildflower season in Grand Teton - lupine, Indian paintbrush, and fireweed create spectacular meadow displays from valley floor to 2,400m (8,000ft) elevation
- Warmest water temperatures of the year - Jackson Lake reaches 18°C (65°F), making swimming and paddling comfortable without wetsuits
- Extended daylight hours with sunset at 8:15pm - gives you 14+ hours for outdoor activities and evening wildlife viewing
- All high-elevation trails are snow-free - access to places like Paintbrush Canyon and Cascade Canyon that are inaccessible earlier in the year
Considerations
- Peak tourist season means crowds at iconic spots like Jenny Lake and Jackson Town Square - expect 30-45 minute waits for shuttle boats
- Accommodation prices at their highest - budget motels that cost $89 in May jump to $189+ per night in August
- Afternoon thunderstorms roll in 60% of days between 2-4pm, requiring flexible hiking schedules and indoor backup plans
Best Activities in August
Grand Teton High-Elevation Hiking
August is the only month when trails above 2,400m (8,000ft) are completely snow-free. The Paintbrush-Cascade Canyon loop and Death Canyon shelf are accessible with wildflowers at peak bloom. Morning starts before 7am avoid afternoon storms and crowds.
Snake River Float Trips
August water levels are perfect for scenic floats - not the spring runoff chaos or late-season shallows. Wildlife congregates at the river during warm afternoons. The Oxbow Bend section offers moose, osprey, and mountain views without whitewater.
Yellowstone Thermal Features Tours
August's dry conditions create dramatic steam contrasts at geysers and hot springs. this destination area and this destination photography is optimal with minimal atmospheric moisture. Early morning visits (6-8am) offer the most dramatic steam effects.
Jackson Hole Mountain Biking
Trail conditions are perfect - no mud, no snow, minimal erosion. The valley floor bike path system connects to Teton Village via 32km (20 miles) of paved and gravel trails. Single-track trails like Cache Creek are dry and fast.
Alpine Lake Paddling
Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake reach their warmest temperatures in August. No wetsuit needed for kayaking or paddleboarding. Afternoon thermal winds create challenging conditions, but morning sessions (6-10am) offer glass-calm water and reflection photography.
Western Heritage Experiences
August is prime rodeo season - Jackson Hole Rodeo runs every Wednesday and Saturday night with authentic small-town atmosphere. Working ranch visits offer horseback riding in comfortable weather without spring mud or fall snow concerns.
August Events & Festivals
Jackson Hole Rodeo
Every Wednesday and Saturday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is authentic small-town rodeo with local cowboys, not a tourist show. Features bull riding, barrel racing, and mutton busting for kids.
Grand Teton Music Festival
Classical music performances in the acoustically-designed Walk Festival Hall with Teton Range backdrop. Features internationally-recognized orchestras and soloists performing in an intimate mountain setting.
Teton County Fair
Traditional county fair with livestock shows, local crafts, and carnival rides. Showcases authentic Wyoming ranch culture with 4-H competitions and agricultural displays. Features local food vendors and live country music.