Jackson in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Jackson
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - comfortable 16-21°C (61-70°F) morning temperatures before afternoon heat builds
- Shoulder season pricing - hotel rates 30-40% lower than peak summer months, fewer crowds at major attractions
- Wildflower blooms throughout valley trails and lower elevation areas create spectacular photography opportunities
- Extended daylight hours with sunrise around 6:15am and sunset near 7:45pm give you 13+ hours for outdoor activities
Considerations
- Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms 40% of days can force early returns from backcountry activities
- Snow remains at high elevations - many alpine trails above 2,400m (7,900ft) still inaccessible until late May
- Variable weather requires carrying gear for both warm and cool conditions, increasing pack weight
Best Activities in May
Valley Floor Hiking and Biking Tours
May's moderate temperatures make valley floor exploration ideal before summer heat arrives. Morning temperatures around 16°C (61°F) warm to comfortable 24°C (75°F) by afternoon. Wildlife is most active during cooler morning hours, and spring runoff creates dramatic waterfalls. Wildflowers peak in lower elevations during mid to late May.
Snake River Scenic Float Trips
Spring runoff creates excellent water levels while maintaining calm conditions perfect for photography and wildlife viewing. May temperatures keep you comfortable in life jackets, unlike hot summer months. Moose, elk, and deer frequent riverside areas during morning and evening trips. Bald eagles and osprey are most active during spring migration.
Grand Teton Lower Elevation Trails
While high alpine areas remain snow-covered, spectacular lower elevation trails like Jenny Lake perimeter and Taggart Lake are accessible and comfortable in May. Spring conditions mean fewer crowds than summer peak season, and morning temperatures around 16°C (61°F) make early starts pleasant. Afternoon storms typically clear by evening.
Yellowstone Lower Loop Wildlife Tours
May is peak wildlife viewing season as animals move to lower elevations with new vegetation growth. Bison calving season creates active herds, while bear activity increases dramatically. Comfortable daytime temperatures around 21°C (70°F) make long wildlife watching sessions enjoyable. Most roads are open by mid-May after winter closures.
Scenic Photography Workshops
May's dramatic weather patterns, spring wildflowers, and excellent light conditions create ideal photography opportunities. Variable cloud cover provides natural diffusion while snow-capped peaks create impressive contrasts with valley greenery. Extended daylight hours allow both sunrise and sunset shoots in single day.
Local Ranch and Western Experiences
May marks the beginning of ranch season with cattle drives, horseback riding, and authentic western activities. Comfortable temperatures make full-day ranch experiences enjoyable without extreme heat. Spring calving season provides authentic ranch work opportunities for visitors seeking genuine western culture.
May Events & Festivals
Old West Days
Annual celebration featuring authentic western demonstrations, live music, and local artisan markets. Memorial Day weekend tradition showcasing Jackson's frontier heritage with gunfight reenactments and historical exhibits throughout downtown Jackson.
ElkFest
Community celebration of wildlife conservation featuring educational exhibits, local food vendors, and fundraising events for elk habitat preservation. Family-friendly activities include wildlife tracking workshops and ranger-led programs.