Top Rappelling Spots in Jackson Hole: Where to Go & What to Know
Welcome to Jackson Hole — Where the Mountains Are Tall and the Drops Are Taller!
Alright adventure junkies — or those who might be adventure junkies if they can just work up the nerve — welcome to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where rappelling is not just an activity; it’s practically a way of life. If you’ve ever dreamed of dangling off the side of a mountain while screaming (in delight, of course), this guide is your golden ticket.
Grab your helmet, give your harness a friendly little pat, and let’s drop into the best rappelling spots Jackson Hole has to offer.
Why Rappelling in Jackson Hole is an Absolute Must
If nature designed a perfect rappelling playground, it would be Jackson Hole. Why? Let’s count the ways:
- Epic Scenery: Think mountains that look like they belong on a postcard and rivers that make you question whether you’ve accidentally stumbled into a Bob Ross painting.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: From “I just learned how to tie this knot” to “I sleep in a harness,” there’s something here for everyone.
- Community Vibes: Friendly guides, great local gear shops, and a solid community of outdoor nuts (we say that with love).
The Best Rappelling Spots in Jackson Hole (aka: Where You’ll Be Dangling)
Grand Teton National Park – The OG of Rappelling
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Vibe: Majestic, epic, probably Instagram-worthy.
Let’s be real: if you’re in Jackson Hole and you don’t visit Grand Teton National Park, did you even really go? This place is a rappeller’s dream.
- Cascade Canyon: Multiple pitches, unreal lake views, and you’ll feel like a total pro.
- Death Canyon: Ignore the name (seriously). It’s gorgeous and worth the trek.
- Garnet Canyon: A spicy combo of climbing and rappelling with sweeping mountain views.
Pro Tip: You’ll need a permit for some of these routes, but many guide services handle all the boring paperwork for you.
Snow King Mountain – The Bunny Slope of Rappelling
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Vibe: Chill, fun, perfect for first-timers.
Snow King Mountain is basically the training wheels of Jackson Hole rappelling — and we mean that in the nicest way. It’s right in town, easy to get to, and perfect if you’re still making friends with gravity.
- Short, sweet descents.
- Excellent for practicing rope management without the “OMG I’M GONNA DIE” factor.
- Bonus: killer views of Jackson below.
Snake River Canyon – Wet, Wild, and Wonderful
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Vibe: Canyon vibes meet rappelling thrills.
Snake River Canyon adds a fun twist: water. This is rappelling meets canyoning, which means sliding, splashing, and lowering yourself down waterfalls like some kind of mountain ninja.
- Expect narrow rock corridors and cool water features.
- Pro guides highly recommended (unless you’re into unexpected swims).
- Watch those water levels — they can rise faster than your heart rate on your first rappel.
Hoback Canyon – The Hidden Gem
Level: Intermediate
Vibe: Quiet, scenic, and off-the-beaten-path.
Want to escape the crowds and enjoy nature without an audience? Hoback Canyon has your back (and your ropes).
- Towering limestone cliffs.
- Crystal-clear river below.
- A little extra hiking required to access, but 100% worth it.
Teton Pass – For the Adrenaline Connoisseur
Level: Advanced
Vibe: Hold-my-beer levels of thrill.
Teton Pass isn’t for dabblers. If you like your rappelling with a side of “I might just text my mom after this to tell her I love her,” this one’s for you.
- Big drops, huge views, and plenty of bragging rights.
- Quick-changing weather, so pack layers and keep an eye on the sky.
- Best hit up in late spring through early fall.
When to Go (Aka: When You Won’t Freeze or Get Zapped)
- Best Time: May to October.
- Avoid: Thunderstorms (lightning + metal gear = very bad day).
- Bonus: The fall colors here will make you cry. Probably. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Your Trusty Gear Checklist
Don’t even think about stepping off a cliff without these:
- Rope (static or dynamic, 60m is a safe bet)
- Harness (snug, but not “can’t breathe” tight)
- Helmet (because brains are important)
- Belay/rappel device (ATC or figure 8)
- Locking carabiners (plural, always bring spares)
- Anchoring gear (slings, webbing, cordelette)
- Climbing gloves (your hands will thank you)
- Grippy shoes (goodbye, flip-flops)
- First aid kit (because life happens)
- Communication device (cell, satellite, or two-way radio)
Where to Get Gear Locally:
- Teton Mountaineering
- Wilson Backcountry Sports
- Exum Mountain Guides rentals
Stay Safe Out There, Folks
- Double-check everything (your life literally depends on your knots).
- Always know your anchor situation.
- Hire a guide if you’re new or unsure.
- Tell someone your plans.
- Watch for wildlife — yes, bears live here and no, they don’t care about your cool climbing selfies.
The Superstars of Jackson Hole Guiding
Exum Mountain Guides
- Absolute legends.
- Perfect for first-timers or hardcore climbers.
- They’ll teach you everything and make it fun.
Jackson Hole Mountain Guides
- Super customizable trips.
- Amazing certified guides.
- Great for private or small group adventures.
Teton Backcountry Guides
- Backcountry experts.
- Great for those who want a bit more solitude.
- Solid safety record.
Where to Crash After Dangling Off a Cliff
- Luxury: Four Seasons Resort, Amangani
- Mid-Range: The Lexington at Jackson Hole, Wyoming Inn
- Budget: Hostel X, Flat Creek Inn
- Camping: Gros Ventre Campground, Jenny Lake Campground
Bonus Fun (When You’re Not Rappelling)
- Rock climbing
- Whitewater rafting on Snake River
- Hiking Grand Teton trails
- Paragliding over the valley (yes, really)
- Wildlife safaris (moose, bears, bison, oh my!)
- Scenic flights if you want to see your rappel spots from above
Quick Insider Pro Tips
- Start early to beat afternoon storms.
- Altitude can sneak up on you — drink more water than you think you need.
- Know basic self-rescue (just in case).
- Don’t skip bear spray if you’re in backcountry areas.
The Final Word (Before You Rope Up)
Jackson Hole isn’t just a pretty face — it’s one of the best places in the world to rappel, whether you’re taking your first vertical baby steps or chasing the next big adrenaline hit. Between the jaw-dropping views, world-class guide services, and variety of routes, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime.
So get out there, trust your gear, and remember: don’t look down (unless you want to — the views are incredible).
