If you’ve ever heard of or visited Jackson Hole, you may have wondered how that name came to be and what the difference is between Jackson and Jackson Hole. Although it may sound somewhat peculiar, Jackson Hole holds deep roots in the region’s geography and history, dating back to the early days of exploration and fur trapping in the American West.
Terminology: What Does “Hole” Mean?
The term “hole” was commonly used by 19th-century explorers and trappers to describe a valley that was difficult to access from the surrounding terrain. These “holes” were enclosed by mountain ranges, with limited entry points and long, harsh winters that made travel in and out challenging.
Jackson Hole fits that description perfectly. The valley sits at roughly 6,200 feet in elevation and is surrounded by dramatic mountain ranges:
Teton Range to the west
Gros Ventre Range to the east
Snake River Range to the south
For early explorers, it truly felt like a geographic bowl, or “hole,” in the mountains. Other Western areas that use the term include Pierre’s Hole in Idaho, as well as Big Hole and Ross’ Hole in Montana.
Early Explorers and the Origin of the Name
The “Jackson” part of the name is commonly attributed to David “Davy” Jackson, a fur trapper, explorer, and partner of frontiersman Jedediah Smith.
In the early 1820s, Jackson and other trappers frequented the valley while searching for beaver pelts, which were in high demand at the time. It is believed William Sublette coined the name “Jackson’s Hole,” initially in the possessive, to honor Davy Jackson. Over time, the possessive was dropped, and “Jackson Hole” became the general term used to describe the region.
The Town of Jackson, named in 1894, is located at the southern end of the valley. Jackson Hole refers to the entire valley, which includes the communities of Jackson, Wilson, Kelly, and Moose.
Indigenous History of the Valley
Before it was known as Jackson Hole, the valley was home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Eastern Shoshone. They used the land seasonally for hunting, travel, and gathering resources long before European-American explorers arrived.
The name “Jackson Hole” reflects a later chapter in the valley’s history shaped by westward expansion, the fur trade, and the language of early settlers.
Jackson Hole Today
Today, Jackson Hole is known less for its isolation and more for its world-class recreation, iconic wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Yet the name remains a nod to the valley’s rugged past and the early explorers who viewed it not as a destination, but as a remote and formidable place tucked deep within the mountains.
While Jackson Hole may sound unusual at first, it is a name that perfectly captures the valley’s geography, history, and frontier spirit. What once made travel difficult now creates the incredible scenery visitors experience today, including the peaceful and scenic views enjoyed on present-day float tours.
Jackson Hole Name Explained (Quick Answer)
Why is it called Jackson Hole?
Jackson Hole is named after fur trapper David “Davy” Jackson and the valley’s bowl-like geography. Early explorers used the term “hole” to describe remote mountain valleys that were difficult to access.
Jackson vs. Jackson Hole:
Jackson = the town
Jackson Hole = the entire valley
Who We Are: Teton Scenic Float Tours
At Teton Scenic Float Tours, we specialize in helping visitors experience Jackson Hole from a true local perspective. Our guided scenic float trips on the Snake River offer a peaceful way to take in the Tetons, observe wildlife, and better understand the landscape that shaped this valley’s history.
