Jackson Hole Bungee Jumping: What You Need to Know + Top Thrill Alternatives
So you want to bungee jump in Jackson Hole, Wyoming?
I admire your adventurous spirit. You’re clearly the kind of person who looks at gravity and says: “Let’s test it.”
And you chose Jackson Hole — one of the most beautiful, rugged, and thrill-packed places in the United States. With its dramatic Grand Tetons, wild rivers, deep canyons, and endless mountains, this sounds like the perfect place to throw yourself off something very tall, attached only to an elastic cord.
But here comes the twist: Jackson Hole doesn’t really have bungee jumping.
(Cue dramatic music.)
Don’t worry — your trip isn’t ruined. In fact, I’m going to show you how Jackson Hole can still deliver more adrenaline than your heart can handle — even if bungee jumping isn’t exactly on the list of legal activities here.
Let’s dive (pun intended) into your ultimate guide for bungee jumping and bungee jumping alternatives in Jackson Hole.
Wait — No Bungee Jumping in Jackson Hole?
That’s correct. As of today, there are no permanent commercial bungee jumping operations directly in Jackson Hole or anywhere in Grand Teton National Park.
Why?
Because national parks tend to frown upon hurling tourists off cliffs. I know, buzzkill.
Plus, environmental regulations, safety standards, and a general desire to keep these wild places pristine means there simply aren’t any legal bungee platforms built into Jackson Hole’s gorgeous terrain.
But if you’re really itching to bungee jump, I’ve got some backup plans for you. And if you’re open to other wild adventures? Buckle up. Jackson Hole is practically bursting with adrenaline-fueled activities.
The Closest Bungee Jumping Options Near Jackson Hole
1. Bungee Expeditions — Idaho Falls, Idaho
Distance: Around 90 miles (~2 hours)
Experience Level: Great for first-timers and veterans alike
Height: Usually between 100-200 feet
While Jackson Hole itself lacks bungee options, Idaho Falls — about two hours away — occasionally hosts mobile bungee events from operators like Bungee Expeditions. They’re one of the few bungee operators in this entire region.
Since they’re mobile, you’ll want to check their event calendar well in advance to see if they’re operating when you’re in town.
2. Royal Gorge Bridge — Cañon City, Colorado
Distance: ~550 miles (~8 hours)
Experience Level: Advanced (and brave)
Height: Over 1,000 feet
If you’re hardcore about your bungee bucket list, Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado offers one of the highest bungee experiences (when available during events). The views are stunning, and the drop? Well, let’s just say you’ll have time to rethink your life choices mid-air.
3. Salt Lake City, Utah
Distance: ~280 miles (~4.5 hours)
Experience Level: Casual and seasonal
Salt Lake City occasionally features temporary bungee setups at fairs, festivals, and events. It’s not a guaranteed bungee mecca, but if you’re lucky with timing, you might snag a jump there.
Why Doesn’t Jackson Hole Offer Bungee Jumping?
Let’s break it down:
- National Park Regulations: Grand Teton National Park is federally protected. Suspended humans swinging through the wilderness? Not exactly park policy.
- Safety Standards: The rugged terrain makes constructing safe bungee platforms pretty complicated.
- Environmental Concerns: Preserving the region’s fragile ecosystem takes priority.
- Permitting Restrictions: The paperwork alone would scare most operators away.
Long story short: Jackson Hole loves its wild beauty and plans to keep it that way.
But Don’t Worry: Jackson Hole Is Still an Adrenaline Playground
While there may be no bungee jumping in Jackson Hole, there’s no shortage of wild things to do that can easily scratch your adrenaline itch. In fact, many people argue that Jackson Hole’s other activities are even better than bungee jumping. Let’s explore:
1. Skydiving Over the Tetons
Operator: Jackson Hole Skydiving
Altitude: Up to 13,000 feet
Best For: People who like their adrenaline with a side of scenic beauty.
Jumping out of a plane over Jackson Hole gives you jaw-dropping views of the Tetons, Snake River, and the entire Jackson Valley. If bungee is 10 seconds of terror, skydiving is 45 seconds of screaming followed by pure floating bliss.
2. Paragliding in Jackson Hole
Operators: Jackson Hole Paragliding (Snow King Mountain & Teton Village)
Paragliding is basically flying, but without having to jump out of an airplane. Instead, you take off gently from a mountain slope and soar like an eagle, with professional pilots steering you safely through the air.
- Great for first-time flyers.
- Extremely scenic.
- You’ll feel like you’re starring in a National Geographic documentary.
3. Whitewater Rafting on Snake River
Operators: Mad River, Dave Hansen Whitewater, and others
If you want your thrills to involve a lot of screaming and splashing, Snake River delivers. The rapids are Class III — exciting but still family-friendly. You’ll get wet, you’ll laugh, and you’ll probably scream at least once.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling in the Tetons
Operators: Exum Mountain Guides, Jackson Hole Mountain Guides
Want vertical thrills? The Grand Tetons offer some of the best climbing in the U.S. And with professional guides, even beginners can safely experience the excitement of scaling cliffs and rappelling down rock faces.
Ziplining Through the Mountains
Locations: Snow King Mountain, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Ziplining gives you the sensation of flying, but with a little less risk than bungee or skydiving. Soar through treetops and mountainsides while soaking up amazing views.
Safety Tips for Adrenaline Seekers
No matter which adventure you pick, safety should always be your +1.
- Always book with licensed operators.
- Pay attention during safety briefings.
- Respect weight, height, and age restrictions.
- Ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.
- Don’t let your ego talk you into doing something you’re not ready for!
Best Seasons for Adventure in Jackson Hole
| Season | Best Activities |
|---|---|
| Spring | Whitewater rafting, paragliding |
| Summer | Skydiving, ziplining, climbing |
| Fall | Paragliding, hiking, climbing |
| Winter | Skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing |
Note: If you’re traveling specifically for bungee jumping, aim for spring to early fall — that’s when nearby operators are most active.
What to Pack for Your Jackson Hole Thrill Trip
- Flexible athletic clothing
- Windbreaker (mountain weather changes fast!)
- Closed-toe adventure shoes
- Action camera (GoPro, Insta360)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Extra courage (for obvious reasons)
First-Time Thrill Seeker Pro Tips
- Breathe: Yes, you actually forget to do this when nervous.
- Trust the gear: Operators use equipment rated far above your weight.
- Don’t overthink it: Fear is part of the fun.
- Scream: You’ll feel better afterward, promise.
- Document it: You’ll want evidence for friends who don’t believe you were that brave.
Final Thoughts: No Bungee? No Problem.
Jackson Hole may not have your textbook bungee jump, but it more than makes up for it with world-class adventures that are every bit as thrilling — and in some ways, even better.
- Skydiving will leave you speechless.
- Paragliding will make you feel like a bird.
- Whitewater rafting will soak you (and your ego).
- Rock climbing will push your limits.
- Ziplining will let you fly through mountain scenery.
By the end of your trip, you’ll probably realize:
It was never about bungee jumping — it was about chasing that pulse-pounding, scream-inducing joy of adventure.
And Jackson Hole? Well, it just might become your new favorite playground.
