Where to Go Parasailing in Jackson Hole – A Thrill-Seeker’s Guide
Introduction: Why Just Hike the Tetons When You Can Fly Over Them?
Alright, adventure-seekers and thrill-junkies—strap in (literally), because we’re about to take your Jackson Hole vacation from “pretty cool” to “I need a new profile pic for every day of the week.”
Parasailing in Jackson Hole is like flying without the stress of booking a plane ticket or flapping your arms awkwardly like a deranged goose. It’s a wild, wind-in-your-face, feet-dangling-above-lakes kind of joyride—and yep, it’s absolutely worth every second.
Now, while Jackson Hole isn’t exactly Miami Beach when it comes to parasailing, there are a few local secrets and nearby gems where you can float through the sky like a majestic human kite. Ready to rise above it all? Let’s go.
First Things First: Can You Actually Parasail in Jackson Hole?
We’ll shoot straight with you—Jackson Hole isn’t crawling with parasailing companies. But before you deflate like an unstrapped life vest, here’s the good news: you can still get your high-flying fix if you know where to look.
The magic word? Water. Parasailing needs big lakes, calm conditions, and boats with enough horsepower to launch you like a fabulous flying burrito. While Jackson itself doesn’t have an official parasailing hub, there are two great options within reach that let you take to the skies in style.
Top Spots to Parasail Near Jackson Hole (Or Close Enough to Count)
1. Jackson Lake – Where You Fly with a Teton Backdrop
If you’re dreaming of soaring above water with the Grand Tetons photobombing your every selfie, Jackson Lake is your jam. Tucked inside Grand Teton National Park, this massive lake offers stunning alpine views that scream “desktop wallpaper.”
While traditional parasailing isn’t always offered directly on the lake, some adventure outfitters may hook you up with custom parasailing or towed flights—you just need to call ahead and ask like a boss.
Pro tip: If you can’t parasail, rent a boat or kayak and pretend you’re scouting your future flight path. Bonus points for dramatic pointing.
2. Palisades Reservoir – The Real Deal
Now we’re talkin’. About an hour south of Jackson, this big, beautiful reservoir is where you can find actual, legit parasailing opportunities. It’s like Jackson Hole’s cool cousin—fewer crowds, tons of water, and just enough wind to lift you like a joyful balloon.
You’ll want to check with local businesses in Alpine, WY (right near the reservoir) or on the Idaho side. Many of them offer boat rentals, watersports packages, and occasionally parasailing or custom tow rides.
- Who to call:
- Teton Valley Adventures
- Salt River Outfitters (Alpine)
- Any marina that smiles when you say “I want to fly”
- Book in advance and drop the phrase “once-in-a-lifetime thrill” if you want VIP vibes.
Bonus Round: Not Quite Parasailing, But You’ll Still Be in the Air
Can’t find a parasailing ride? Don’t cry—Jackson Hole still has plenty of high-flying alternatives, including:
- Paragliding at Snow King Mountain – Fly with a pro and glide over the valley like a happy bird.
- Hot Air Ballooning – For those who prefer their flight with a side of champagne and no sudden dips.
- Scenic Helicopter Tours – Get the aerial views and feel like a Teton-flying rockstar.
Hey, you’re off the ground and gasping with awe—close enough, right?
When Should You Go Parasailing? (Hint: Don’t Try in January)
Summertime is prime flying time. Think:
- Late May through early September – The lakes are warm-ish, the skies are blue, and you’ll probably avoid frostbite.
- Early mornings or golden hour evenings – Less wind, better light, and more dramatic selfies.
Avoid stormy afternoons unless your dream is to star in Parasailing: The Sequel to Twister.
What It’s Like to Parasail (aka That Part Where You Briefly Become a Bird)
Here’s the ride in a nutshell:
- Hop on the boat, get strapped into a harness, and try to act cooler than you feel.
- Suddenly lift off as the boat picks up speed. Yep, you’re airborne!
- Hover 300–500 feet up, flapping zero muscles and smiling like a child on Christmas.
- Optional: Get dipped in the water near the end for a little splash-and-giggle moment.
- Return to the boat, wind-blown, grinning, and ready to brag to strangers.
Most rides last around 10–15 minutes in the air, plus boat time. Long enough to scream, marvel, and take 400 pictures.
What to Pack (and What to Leave With Your Mom)
Must-Haves:
- Swimsuit or quick-dry clothes
- Sunscreen (SPF a million)
- Water shoes or sandals
- Waterproof action camera (GoPros = instant legends)
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Nerves of steel (or mild bravery)
Leave These at Home:
- Phones without waterproof cases (bye-bye, screen)
- Hats without chin straps
- Fancy jewelry
- That inner voice saying “What if I fall?” (You won’t. You’re tied in tighter than your grandma’s jam jar.)
How Much Will It Cost Me to Become a Sky Potato?
Pricing depends on where and how you do it. Here’s a ballpark:
- Solo parasailing ride: $90–$130
- Tandem flight: $150–$200
- Custom boat rental with tow setup: $300+/hour
- Photo package: Extra $30 (worth it if you want proof of your airborne victory)
Book ahead, especially in July and August when the skies are full of tourists, birds, and the occasional thrill-seeker like you.
Bonus Fun: What to Do Before or After You Parasail
Don’t just fly—explore! Here’s how to round out your sky-high day:
- Float the Snake River – Because you haven’t truly lived until you’ve gone from sky to rapids in one weekend.
- Hike Jenny Lake – Earthbound beauty with mountain reflections.
- Ride the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram – You get altitude and waffles. Waffles!!
- Chill in downtown Jackson – Grab a huckleberry milkshake and browse cowboy boots you’ll never wear.
Final Words: Fly First, Brag Later
Parasailing near Jackson Hole is more than just a vacation activity—it’s a full-on story to tell your future grandkids (or at least your dog). Whether you find a perfect ride at Palisades, get a special trip on Jackson Lake, or pivot to paragliding with a smile, the skies are calling.
So go ahead—float, fly, scream, smile, dip your toes in the clouds. You’re not just visiting Jackson Hole; you’re conquering it from the air.
