Planning a trip to Jackson Hole and hoping to skip the expense and hassle of renting a car? You’re in luck! Jackson, Wyoming, is just 2.95 square miles and incredibly walkable, with affordable and convenient transportation options to help you save money and make the most of your visit. Whether you’re sticking to the town or heading out to Teton Village, these tips will help you avoid common pitfalls, save money, and, most importantly, find joy in the journey!
1. Map Your Walk
Jackson is compact and easy to navigate—until you factor in icy roads, frigid temperatures, or lugging gear (and possibly kids). Before heading out on foot, always map your route.
We learned this the hard way. Locals assured us our walk to Snow King Mountain was “just 10 minutes” from our boutique hotel. What was supposed to be a quick trek turned into a 25-minute struggle through snow drifts in freezing weather lugging an 8-year-old Texas-born child who had never experienced what 11 degrees and a windchill of -5 felt like. Lesson learned: check distances before leaving your warm hotel room!
2. Use the Free START On-Demand Service
Avoid expensive rideshares by downloading the START On-Demand app—a free ride service within Jackson. It’s like Uber but completely free! You’ll share a shuttle with other passengers, so plan for slightly longer travel times.
START On-Demand offers extended hours to key locations like East Jackson (6 AM–12 AM) and Albertsons (7 PM–11 PM), making it perfect for grocery runs. Pro tip: If you’re planning to bring snacks, pack them ahead—prices in Jackson are higher than average.
3. Take the START Bus for Free
Jackson’s START Bus system offers free shuttles within the town limits, making it a fantastic way to get around without spending a dime. Download the Transit App to view routes, schedules, and updates. Keep in mind that the bus adds some travel time, so plan ahead.
We used the START Bus to Snow King on our last day, and it was a much smoother experience than walking. Save your energy for the slopes or a scoop of huckleberry ice cream!
4. Travel to Teton Village for Just $3
The START Bus also offers an affordable $3 ride to Teton Village. Kids 8 and under ride free with an adult, and discounts are available for children 5–12 or seniors over 60.
Choose the Teton Village Express route when possible to save time. Expect the bus to fill up quickly during ski season, especially at the Stilson Lot. Plan ahead and prepare for a crowd.
5. Use the Free Stilson Lot Park & Ride
If you have a car but want to avoid parking fees or the risk of full lots at Teton Village, park at the Stilson Lot. This free lot is 7 miles from Teton Village and offers shuttle service directly to the resort. It’s an excellent option during peak seasons, but be prepared for a wait if the shuttles are crowded.
6. Consider the START Airport Shuttle
If you’re traveling between Jackson and Jackson Hole Airport, the START Airport Shuttle is a convenient option for $10 per rider (available seasonally from December to April). Depending on your group size, this could save you money compared to rideshares like Uber, which cost around $40 for a trip.
Bonus Tips for Saving Money in Jackson
- Season Passes: If you’re staying longer, check out START Bus passes for cost-saving options.
- Accommodations: We loved our stay at The Alpine House, which offered a hearty, made-to-order breakfast. Skipping breakfast costs and enjoying a large meal that lasted us past lunch helped cut down on daily food expenses.
- Rideshares: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Jackson, but we found Uber to be more reliable during our trip.
Final Thoughts
Jackson Hole is a beautiful destination that’s easy to navigate without renting a car…with a little planning. From free ride options to budget-friendly tips, these strategies will help you save money and enjoy every moment of your trip. Whether you’re walking the snowy streets of Jackson or heading to Teton Village for world-class skiing, don’t forget to plan ahead, pack warm gear, and find joy in the journey!
P.S.
We were so inspired by our time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming that we wanted a way to relive the adventure every day! So, we designed a custom typography mug—the perfect way to sip our morning coffee and instantly be transported back to the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments. Now, you can catch your own one-of-a-kind mug and keep the memories of your trip alive with every sip! Click here to shop now!
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