Teton County is located in northwestern Wyoming, bordered by Idaho to the west and Yellowstone National Park to the north. This region is famous for its stunning natural beauty, encompassing the Teton Range, Jackson Hole valley, and parts of Grand Teton National Park. Established in 1921, Teton County was named after the iconic Teton Mountain Range, which dominates the skyline and attracts millions of visitors every year. The county covers approximately 4,216 square miles, most of which is protected wilderness or national parkland.
Teton County is home to a relatively small population of around 24,000 residents, but its cities and towns play important roles in both local life and the tourism industry. Jackson, the county seat, is the largest and most well-known city, while smaller towns like Teton Village and Wilson also offer distinct charm and proximity to outdoor activities. The economy in the region is heavily driven by tourism, hospitality, and outdoor recreation, with year-round opportunities for skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
The county includes one city, Jackson, and several unincorporated communities and towns such as Teton Village, Wilson, and Moran.
Cities and Towns in Teton County
Jackson
Overview of Geography and History
Jackson, the county seat and largest city in Teton County, is located in the southern end of Jackson Hole valley. Nestled between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, Jackson is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and proximity to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone. The city was established in the late 19th century as a hub for fur trappers and ranchers, but its transformation into a premier destination for outdoor recreation began in the early 20th century. Today, Jackson is known for its vibrant arts scene, Western culture, and world-class skiing, particularly at the nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Jackson’s history is rooted in ranching and trapping, but it has grown into one of Wyoming’s most economically prosperous areas, driven largely by tourism. Visitors flock to Jackson year-round for access to the national parks, skiing, and the famous Jackson Town Square, where wooden sidewalks and the iconic elk antler arches pay homage to the town’s Western roots.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to the Tetons”
- Area: 2.95 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,700
- Elevation: 6,237 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 83001, 83002
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Jackson is a well-connected town due to its tourism appeal. The main transportation hub is Jackson Hole Airport, located within Grand Teton National Park, just 10 miles north of the city. The airport offers direct flights to major U.S. cities year-round. U.S. Highway 26/89 runs through Jackson, providing access to Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park to the north, and Idaho to the west. State Route 22 connects Jackson to Teton Pass and the neighboring state of Idaho, making it a vital route for regional travel. Public transportation is available through the START Bus system, which serves Jackson and nearby communities, and shuttles also connect tourists to local ski resorts.
Famous People
- Harrison Ford: Actor and part-time Jackson resident.
- Dick Cheney: Former Vice President of the United States, maintains a home in Jackson.
Teton Village
Overview of Geography and History
Teton Village is an unincorporated resort community located just north of Jackson, at the base of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton County. The community is surrounded by the Teton Range, making it a popular destination for skiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Teton Village was developed in the 1960s to serve as a base for the growing ski industry in the area. Over the decades, the village has transformed into a year-round luxury resort destination, offering not only skiing but also summer activities like mountain biking, hiking, and festivals.
Although small in population, Teton Village attracts visitors from around the world due to its proximity to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which boasts some of the most challenging ski terrain in the U.S. The community also serves as a gateway to Grand Teton National Park, located just a short drive away.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 12.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 330
- Elevation: 6,311 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 83025
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Teton Village is located about 12 miles northwest of Jackson and is easily accessible via Wyoming Highway 390. The village’s close proximity to Jackson Hole Airport makes air travel convenient for visitors. Teton Village offers shuttle services to and from the airport and Jackson, and the START Bus system provides regular routes between Jackson and Teton Village. Additionally, private shuttle services are available for tourists heading to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or nearby parks. For those driving, Highway 390 connects to U.S. 26, providing access to Yellowstone and other regional destinations.
Famous People
- Tiger Woods: Professional golfer, has been known to visit the area frequently.
Wilson
Overview of Geography and History
Wilson is a small unincorporated community located about 7 miles west of Jackson, at the base of Teton Pass. Named after Elijah Nicholas Wilson, a famous mountain man and Pony Express rider, the town has maintained its rustic charm despite being so close to the bustling Jackson area. Wilson was founded in the late 19th century and has long been a gateway for travelers heading over Teton Pass into Idaho. It has since become a popular residential area for those seeking a quieter lifestyle, while still being close to the amenities of Jackson.
The town is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor lifestyle, with access to the Snake River and surrounding wilderness areas. Wilson retains a more rural, small-town feel compared to Jackson, with a slower pace of life and a close-knit community.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: 0.45 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Elevation: 6,148 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 83014
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Wilson is connected to Jackson and Idaho by Wyoming Highway 22, which runs directly through the town and over Teton Pass. This pass is a crucial route for travelers heading into Idaho, especially during the winter ski season. Jackson Hole Airport is about 15 miles away, providing air access for residents and visitors alike. The START Bus system offers limited public transit between Wilson and Jackson, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Highway 22 also connects to U.S. Route 89, offering access to Grand Teton National Park and beyond.
Famous People
- Kanye West: Musician and producer, who has a ranch near Wilson.
Moran
Overview of Geography and History
Moran is an unincorporated community located on the eastern shore of Jackson Lake, near the entrance to Grand Teton National Park. The town was named after the famous landscape painter Thomas Moran, who played a significant role in the early exploration and conservation of the region. Moran began as a small settlement of trappers and ranchers in the late 19th century, but today it primarily serves as a gateway for visitors to the national parks. Its location near the park’s eastern entrance makes it a popular stop for tourists heading to Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
The community remains small and is primarily made up of seasonal residents who work in the nearby parks and resorts. Moran’s history is deeply tied to the development of conservation and tourism in the area, and it continues to offer access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the U.S.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Approximately 250
- Elevation: 6,749 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 83013
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Moran is located along U.S. Route 26/287, which runs through the eastern entrance of Grand Teton National Park. This route connects Moran to Jackson, about 30 miles south, and to Yellowstone National Park to the north. The closest airport is Jackson Hole Airport, about 25 miles south, which provides air access for visitors and residents alike. While there is no public transit in Moran, the main highway system offers easy access to the surrounding national parks and wilderness areas.
Famous People
- None notable at present
Moose (Unincorporated)
Overview of Geography and History
Moose is a small unincorporated community located in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, on the eastern side of the Teton Range. The community was established as a park service area and remains a vital hub for visitors to Grand Teton National Park. Moose is known for its proximity to park attractions, including the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, and its stunning views of the Tetons. The Snake River also runs through the area, providing opportunities for fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing.
Though small, Moose plays an important role as a base for park operations and visitor services. Its history is closely tied to the creation and preservation of Grand Teton National Park, and it remains a key location for tourists exploring the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: None
- Area: Not officially designated
- Population: Approximately 100
- Elevation: 6,572 feet
- Time zone: Mountain Time (MT)
- ZIP Codes: 83012
- Area code: 307
Transportation
Moose is located along U.S. Route 26/89, which runs through Grand Teton National Park and connects the community to Jackson and Moran. The nearby Jackson Hole Airport provides convenient air access, and most visitors drive through Moose while traveling to key park destinations. Public transportation is minimal, but the road network offers easy access to park trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers.
Famous People
- None notable at present