Where is the Idaho Side of the Tetons?
Visiting the Tetons but want to avoid the crowds? Skip Jackson Hole and check out Teton Valley! Located on the west side of the Teton mountain range, Teton Valley, Idaho is a destination where breathtaking views, outdoor adventure, and small-town western charm come together. It’s a quiet place to adventure or relax without the crowds of Jackson Hole. Even though the population is small, Teton Valley has so much to do — from hiking and floating to skiing and small-town charm, it’s the quiet side of the Tetons and well worth the drive.
Known as “the quiet side of the Tetons,” Teton Valley is made up of the towns of Victor and Driggs. Teton Pass connects Teton Valley and Jackson Hole, yet many visitors skip the drive because of the pass’s steep grade. Jackson Hole can get crazy busy in the summers, making Idaho the perfect alternative while still getting the mountain views and local culture. The town of Victor has so much to offer despite its small size — downtown Victor has restaurants, bars, and shops, plus farmers markets and live music in the summer that draw locals and tourists alike. Driggs has a bigger downtown with plenty of local shops and restaurants. Every Friday in the summer is the Teton Valley Rodeo — it’s the perfect way to experience the valley’s local charm.
Eat, Drink & Shop Like a Local in Teton Valley
Victor Emporium
Souvenirs and fly fishing gear make up the front of this store, but the star is in the back. At the back of the store is an old-time soda fountain serving up fresh milkshakes and ice cream cones. Try their huckleberry milkshake!
Knotty Pine Supper Club
Classic American dishes served up in an amazing atmosphere! They have a lovely patio with live music, so stop by for a drink and a bite.
Wydaho Roasters
The best coffee and pastries in the valley! Stop in for a quick coffee, or sit and enjoy lunch and a homemade pastry.
Teton Geotourism Center
Learn about the valley at the Teton Geotourism Center! Walk around the exhibits and learn about the rich history, stunning beauty, and local wildlife of Teton Valley.
Teton Thai
A Driggs favorite for Thai food in the valley — if you’re craving something other than classic mountain-town fare, check out Teton Thai.
Best Outdoor Activities in Teton Valley
Hike the West Side of the Tetons
If you’re tired of trails in the national parks backed up with people, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest has hundreds of miles of trails just as gorgeous with no crowds. The Jedediah Smith Wilderness is located within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and borders Grand Teton National Park, so you can still hike in the Teton mountain range without entering the national park at all.
Floating & Fishing the Teton River
The Teton River runs through the valley, giving you a way to cool off during the hot summer months! The Teton offers a relaxing float with amazing views of the Tetons and the Big Hole Mountains. You can also fly fish on the river, since it’s a tributary of the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. The Henry’s Fork is a world-famous fly fishing destination, so it’s worth checking out!
Mountain Biking Teton Valley & Grand Targhee
Grand Targhee Resort is open year-round with a bike park open in the summer! If you’re not looking for a bike park, there are plenty of trails in the surrounding national forest. One of the most popular destinations is mountain biking Teton Pass — there are multiple trails off the top of the pass worth checking out!
Teton Valley isn’t just a summer destination, it’s the perfect place to visit in the winter too! The Valley is a great alternative to Jackson Hole or Breckenridge, being cheaper and less crowded, with amazing powder!
Skiing & Snowboarding at Grand Targhee Resort
Grand Targhee Resort has amazing snow and scenery in the winter. They offer plenty of groomed trails and lifts. There are also plenty of backcountry skiing options in the area, in both the Teton mountain range and the Big Hole Mountains.
Snowmobiling in the Tetons
Teton Valley and the surrounding mountains are the perfect place for snowmobiling. There are guided tours, or you can rent your own and go explore the backcountry, getting to places you otherwise wouldn’t be able to reach.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Jackson Hole and check out the west side of the Teton mountain range in Teton Valley, Idaho. There’s still plenty of hiking, biking, fishing, and so much more to keep you busy! Check out Victor and Driggs and experience authentic small-town charm with local shops and restaurants. During the summer, the Valley has events and festivals to keep you entertained. If you’re splitting your trip between both sides of the Tetons, check out our Jackson Hole trip planning guide for lodging and area info back in Wyoming and if a Snake River scenic float or fly fishing trip in Jackson Hole is on your list, we’d love to have you on board. Escape Jackson Hole and discover the beauty and charm of Teton Valley!
FAQs for Exploring the Teton Valley in Idaho
Is Teton Valley, Idaho worth visiting?
Yes — it offers the same Teton Range views as Jackson Hole with a fraction of the crowds, plus its own hiking, floating, and skiing.
How do you get from Jackson Hole to Teton Valley, Idaho?
Drive over Teton Pass on Highway 22, which connects Wilson, Wyoming to Victor, Idaho in about 30–40 minutes.
What is Teton Valley known for?
It’s known as “the quiet side of the Tetons” — home to the towns of Victor and Driggs, the Teton River, and Grand Targhee Resort.
Is Teton Valley cheaper than Jackson Hole?
Generally, yes. Lodging, dining, and lift tickets in Teton Valley tend to run cheaper than in Jackson Hole or comparable resort towns like Breckenridge.
Can you float the Teton River?
Yes — the Teton River offers a relaxing summer float with views of the Tetons and Big Hole Mountains, and it’s also a popular fly fishing river as a tributary of the Henry’s Fork.
When is the best time to visit Teton Valley?
Summer (June–September) is best for hiking, floating, and the Friday night rodeo; winter (December–March) is best for skiing and snowmobiling at Grand Targhee.
