The First Stewards of the Jackson Hole Valley
Jackson Hole is famous for the mountain men and pioneers who developed the land as we know it today. But who came before them?
Archaeological evidence suggests that about 11,000 years ago, after the last continental glacier receded, humans moved into the valley. The earliest human inhabitants of the Americas were called Paleoindians. The earliest evidence of their seasonal habitation throughout the valley are Folsom projectile points made of obsidian or chert. Over the next several thousand years, native groups would establish campsites and routes through the valley during the warmer months of the year.
The indigenous groups that used the valley included but were not limited to: Nez Perce, Blackfoot, Eastern or Plains Shoshone, Gros Ventre, Bannock, Mountain Shoshone (also called Sheep-Eaters), Crow, and Northern Arapaho.
As hunting, food processing, and other technologies advanced, their numbers increased. During the summers, they hunted bison, elk, and sheep, gathered obsidian, berries, tubers, roots, and nuts – especially pine nuts. Pine nuts are especially nutritious, with a high fat and protein content, and they helped sustain the people of the valley.
Shoshone History and the Teton Range
Sacagawea is one of the most well-known Native American women of the Shoshone tribe. With her help on the Lewis and Clark expedition, her knowledge of the region helped them explore much of the Teton region.
The Shoshone are one of the better-known tribes with deep connections to the Teton Mountain Range; they called it “Teewinot,” meaning “many pinnacles.”
Native Guides Who Shared Their Knowledge of the Land
Other Native Americans were able to help expeditions navigate much of what is now Yellowstone National Park. A Tukudeka guide named Togote led Captain William Jones in 1873 successfully into the east side of Yellowstone. Togwotee Pass is named for him.
Native Culture in Jackson Hole Today
Today, Native American communities are reclaiming space in Jackson Hole’s narrative through events like the Teton Powwow. The Powwow is hosted by the Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative. They bring tribes together to sing, dance, and educate the public about indigenous traditions and their ties to the land.
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is also working to highlight Native American artists and frequently hosts exhibitions from Native artists.
When visiting Jackson Hole, it is important to remember and honor this land’s original stewards. Their culture is still living and breathing, and how they have shaped this valley. Check out educational exhibits while in the area to learn more information and engage with the history and Native culture of Jackson Hole.
Native Tribes Connected to the Jackson Hole Region
Tribes historically connected to the region include:
Eastern or Plains Shoshone
Mountain Shoshone (Tukudeka or “Sheep Eaters”)
Northern Arapaho
Nez Perce
Crow
Bannock
Gros Ventre
Blackfoot
Each of these nations maintained deep cultural and spiritual ties to the mountains, valleys, and waterways of the Greater Yellowstone area, contributing to the rich Indigenous history that continues to shape the region today.
Where Visitors Can Learn More Today
If you’d like to deepen your understanding of Native history and culture in the Jackson Hole and Teton region, consider visiting locally connected educational and cultural programs. These experiences help share stories, traditions, and perspectives from Native communities with long-standing ties to the area.
- Teton Powwow – A regional gathering celebrating Native song, dance, and culture.
- Wind River Tribal Buffalo Initiative – A community-led effort supporting cultural education and conservation.
- National Museum of Wildlife Art – Frequently features exhibitions from Native American artists and storytellers.
- Local interpretive exhibits & educational programs – Found throughout the Greater Yellowstone region.
