I recently flew into Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for the first time – and it blew me away!
We were starting our descent into the airport, and I was occupied watching a show when I gazed out my window. I was instantly taken aback by the breathtaking views of the Teton Mountain Range and the wide valley (Jackson Hole).
I nudged my husband to point out the beautiful scenery to him. I attentively enjoyed from my window seat for the entire rest of my airplane ride.
This was just the start of my surprisingly picturesque travels in and out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This airport was like no other United States airport I had ever flown into.
I had to ask some questions while I was there so I could do some research about this unique airport.
Only U.S. airport in a National Park
The predominant reason for these noticeable differences at Jackson Hole Airport is that it is inside a national park.
The Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is the only commercial airport in the United States located fully within a national park, the Grand Teton National Park. That location means there are strong environmental protections and regulations concerning the land, wildlife, noise, lighting, and overall footprint for the airport.
When we deplaned, it was like a blast from my past as we had no jetway, the normal enclosed walkway that comes right up to the airplane door. We walked onto an outdoor walking ramp, all exposed to the elements.
Luckily, it was an absolutely beautiful 70-degree sunny day. As I walked down the ramp, the mountain views were right there to enjoy up close!
Why are there no jetways at the Jackson Hole Airport?
Building taller or bulkier structures like jetways would obstruct the scenic views of the Tetons and increase the airport’s visual footprint. The strict rules allow the airport to blend into the environment as much as possible.
I asked some of the TSA folks at the airport if there were jetways during the harsh winter months. They said no! Year-round, the outdoor ramps are used for boarding and deboarding at Jackson Hole airport.
I imagine this makes it difficult for passengers with disabilities or the elderly. This is something you might consider when choosing to travel to JAC.
The airport primarily handles narrow-body jets like the Boeing 737s or Airbus A320s. These types of aircraft are easier to board with mobile ramps or stairs.
A remote mountain lodge vibe
I found out that the terminal had recently been renovated in 2022. The design takes inspiration from the surroundings: wood, stone, views, large windows, and a mountain lodge vibe.
As we walked toward the entrance of the terminal upon arrival, there was a unique massive arch made from hundreds of antlers. The terminal inside had a very open feeling with large windows, so you can continue enjoying the mountain views.
The airport is situated by itself with no other commercial development close by. We had to take about a 20-minute shuttle ride to get to our rental car place in Jackson Hole.
Stepping outside of the airport terminal (that felt like a mountainous resort), you can soak in the 360 mountain views, crisp, clean air, and the quietness of the remote airport. This is a noticeable difference from all the urban airports I normally fly to.
It would be on my return trip a week later when I noticed many other differences.
More features of the Jackson Hole Airport
One of the standout amenities at Jackson Hole Airport is the mother’s room and wellness room. This private, thoughtfully designed space includes a chair with a footstool, sink, counter, and changing table. It’s quiet, roomy, comfortable, and impeccably clean, ideal for travelers needing a moment of rest or privacy.
Right next door is a pet relief room. The space features a 3-by-6-foot potty rug, a chair, sink, paper towels, and even a hot/cold water outlet with a nozzle for quick cleanups. A floor drain and waste disposal station round out the setup, making it exceptionally practical for those traveling with pets. I thought it was the nicest pet relief station I had ever seen at an airport.
Speaking of the relief station, the bathroom I used was very lovely as well. The stall had a black stone back wall with the side wall of white subway tile. What made it elevated was probably the accent lighting, plus how clean it was.
When traveling, you never know what condition public restrooms will be in, but this was nicer than most airport lounge bathrooms I have experienced.
Keeping things categorized and properly disposed of
Another feature worth noting is the airport’s commitment to organized and sustainable waste disposal. I counted twelve separate containers, including options for landfill (multiple), a pour-out station, plastic bottles (no caps), glass, aluminum cans, newspapers, magazines, and catalogs.
I wonder how many things get put into the wrong container – but I do appreciate their thoroughness.
There was a National Park gift shop to purchase souvenir items. At the entrance, it was posted that 100% of the profits go toward the public lands. Next to the checkout was another opportunity to donate to the interpretive, educational, and scientific efforts of Grand Teton National Park through the Grand Teton Association, a non-profit organization.
The airport interior reminded me of a resort in the mountains, just a lot more seating and more people. The airport featured openness, large wood beams, large mural artwork, and large windows with the Teton Mountains as the backdrop.
A wonderful week in Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, and the Tetons with great lifelong friends started and ended with the beautiful and strikingly unique Jackson Hole airport. What a special addition to a scenic vacation!
Don’t sleep on your approach into Jackson Hole, Wyoming. You won’t want to miss the breathtaking views from your airplane window.
