KFinch/NPS photo
Dark clouds move in over the mountains near Moose. Thunderstorms occur frequently in the Tetons during the summer. Plan an early start for your hiking and backpacking trips to avoid mid-day storms.
Jackson Hole hardly seems the same place when one contrasts the winter and summer seasons. The southern end of the valley averages 15 feet of snow in the winter and often reaches balmy 80 degree temperatures in the summer. Temperatures in higher elevations average four degrees Fahrenheit cooler every 1,000 feet in rise.
Winter doesn’t officially set in until December 21, but the first heavy snows may fall by November 1. Between winter storms the days are sunny and the nights are frigid. Average temperatures range from a daily maximum of 26°F to a minimum of 1°F. Ask at the visitor center in Moose for road closures during blizzards.
During spring mild days and cool nights frequently come with rain or snow. The spring months average 11 days with measurable precipitation. Temperatures typically range from 22°F to 49° F during April. Valley trails remain snow-covered until late May.
Between the months of June through August the average daily temperature is 76°F, but high-elevation hiking trails don’t melt out until mid-July. Nighttime temperatures can reach the lower 40s. Most of the year’s precipitation falls during the summer months; afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Sun and occasional rain and snow fill the short fall days. The average daily maximum is 54°F while the minimum average is a cool 25°F. The fall months average 23 days that drop below freezing. For a comfortable trip, bring plenty of layered clothing.
National Weather Service:
Moose/Jackson Hole Airport
Western Wyoming/Riverton
Teton Forecast: http://www.mountainweather.com
Bridger-Teton National Forest: Backcountry Avalanche Hazard Forecast: http://www.jhavalanche.org
Call (307) 733-2664 for recorded information
Call (307) 733-2759 to report observed avalanche activity
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