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Where Is Jackson, Wyoming?

Jackson sits in the Jackson Hole Valley, nestled in Teton County in western Wyoming. If you're heading toward the mountains or exploring the outdoors, Jackson is your ideal base camp. Elevation of Jackson: 6,237 feet.

Why Jackson Is a Hotspot

Jackson is more than just scenic—it’s a gateway town to two major national treasures:

  • Grand Teton National Park
  • Yellowstone National Park

Outdoor lovers, wildlife watchers, and thrill-seekers flock here year-round.

Jackson’s Role in Teton County

Jackson isn’t just another mountain town—it’s the county seat of Teton County and also its largest town. That makes it a key location for services, events, and visitor infrastructure.

Town Size and Population

Here’s a quick look at Jackson by the numbers:

  • Size: 2.95 square miles
  • Population: Over 10,000 residents
  • Metro Area: Over 30,000 people

Elevation Basics

What is elevation?

It’s simply how high a location is compared to sea level, usually measured in feet or meters.

Why it matters:

  • Weather forecasting
  • Climate analysis
  • City planning

Elevation of Jackson: 6,237 feet (1,901 meters)

How Jackson Compares to Other Cities

U.S. average elevation: 2,500 feet (760 meters)

Wyoming state average: 6,700 feet (2,040 meters)

Jackson: Slightly lower than state average at 6,237 feet

Other WY city elevations:

  • Cheyenne: 6,062 ft
  • Casper: 5,150 ft
  • Laramie: 7,165 ft
  • Gillette: 4,554 ft
  • Encampment (highest town): 7,277 ft

Elevation’s Impact on Weather

Thanks to its elevation and valley setting, Jackson has a humid continental climate:

  • Winters: Cold with January lows around 5°F (-15°C)
  • Summers: Warm but mild, July highs around 82°F (28°C), lows around 41°F (5°C)

Expect chilly nights even in the summer—bring layers!

Things to Do in Jackson

Don’t miss these activities and places:

  • Explore Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks
  • Spot elk at the National Elk Refuge
  • Hit the slopes at Jackson Hole, Snow King Mountain, or Grand Targhee
  • Attend the annual Elkfest celebration

A Quick History of Jackson

Named after trapper Davey Jackson, the town gained prominence in the early 1900s. In 1914, it was officially incorporated, and by 1920, Jackson made headlines by electing an all-female city government.

Thanks to its location, Jackson grew into a major tourist destination and cultural hub. Its thriving downtown and access to skiing, parks, and wildlife make it a favorite among visitors and locals alike.

Plan Your Trip