Best attractions and places to see in Jackson County include a diverse range of outdoor experiences. This region, characterized by its mountainous terrain, offers opportunities for cycling, hiking, and exploring high-altitude passes. Visitors can discover natural monuments, scenic viewpoints, and trails that traverse significant landscapes. The area provides access to parts of the Continental Divide and expansive national forests.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Here, you can enjoy stunning views of Rabbit Ears. It's a great place to pause and take in the views before making your way back.
0
0
This is a great spot to catch a view of Rabbit Ears Peak looming above you. The ascent to the actual peak is a technical rock climb, and the rock climb itself is very loose and crumbly — so for most trail runners, this is as far up as you'd ever want to go.
1
0
All told, the TransAmerica Trail runs for more than 4,000 miles across the country. Although it's technically a road ride, you'll also see people riding their touring bikes along the paved shoulder. Some folks even go all-in with bikepacking their way along the trail. This segment runs from the twin towns of Encampment-Riverside in Wyoming to the Colorado state line, although of course you can keep biking farther if you like.
2
0
This is actually a road ride — not a separate trail — and it is unbelievably scenic. The entire trail is more than 4,000 miles long; this segment runs from the twin towns of Encampment and Riverside in Wyoming to the Colorado state line with just one section of significant uphill/downhill grade. Of course the trail keeps going beyond that, so you could continue riding farther if you like.
3
0
Willow Creek Pass sits on the Continental Divide along the Rabbit Ears Range at 9,683 in elevation. Willow Creek, the passes namesake runs along the south side of the pass.
0
0
From the wide, open summit of Montgomery Pass you get fantastic views of North Park to the west, the Neota Wilderness to the south, and the Rawah Wilderness to the north. The summit of pass is also just east of the boundary between Roosevelt National Forest and Colorado State Forest State Park, where you can see the remains of a log cabin that dates from around 1900.
0
0
Summit Lake Campground opens in mid-June and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You can enjoy fishing at one of the six lakes or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings.
0
0
The name "Rabbit Ears" was given to this rock formation due to its resemblance to rabbit ears. However, over the years of erosion, it has lost its recognizable appearance. To reach the summit, some basic scramble skills are necessary.
0
0
Jackson County is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities. You can explore scenic road cycling on the TransAmerica Trail: Encampment to Colorado State Line, which is part of a 4,000-mile route. Hiking and trail running are popular, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the challenging Rabbit Ears Peak area. Mountain biking is also a great way to explore the terrain.
Yes, Jackson County offers scenic routes, particularly for cyclists. The TransAmerica Trail: Encampment to Colorado State Line is highlighted as an unbelievably scenic road ride, traversing from Encampment and Riverside in Wyoming to the Colorado state line. This segment offers stunning views and is part of a much longer trail.
The mountain passes in Jackson County offer expansive and breathtaking views. From Montgomery Pass, you can enjoy fantastic vistas of North Park to the west, the Neota Wilderness to the south, and the Rawah Wilderness to the north. Willow Creek Pass, situated on the Continental Divide, also provides impressive scenery along the Rabbit Ears Range.
For families, the Summit Lake Campground Trail is a great option. It's categorized as family-friendly and offers opportunities for fishing in one of the six lakes or simply relaxing in the serene surroundings. The campground typically opens in mid-June.
Jackson County features a variety of hiking trails. For an easy experience, consider trails like Big Creek Trail or Four Lakes via Summit Lake Campground Trail. If you're looking for more challenging options, the Rabbit Ears Peak trail run or Timber Lake Trail are popular choices. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes in Jackson County guide.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will find several trails in Jackson County. Popular routes include the Flash of Gold and Grouse Trail Loop, and the Dumont Lake to Rabbit Ears Peak trail. These trails offer moderate to difficult challenges. For more options, check out the MTB Trails in Jackson County guide.
The best time to visit Jackson County for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer months. For instance, the Summit Lake Campground typically opens in mid-June, indicating that late spring through early fall would be ideal for enjoying hiking, cycling, and exploring the mountain passes.
Jackson County is home to several unique natural features. Rabbit Ears Peak is a distinctive natural monument, though its recognizable 'rabbit ears' shape has evolved due to erosion. The region also boasts high-altitude mountain passes like Willow Creek Pass, which sits on the Continental Divide.
Yes, some attractions offer a glimpse into the past. At the summit of Montgomery Pass, you can find the remains of a log cabin dating back to around 1900, offering a historical touch to the scenic views.
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty and the diverse outdoor opportunities. The scenic road rides, like the TransAmerica Trail segment, are highly praised for their views. The challenging yet rewarding hikes to viewpoints like Rabbit Ears Peak and the panoramic vistas from mountain passes are also big draws.
Absolutely. Jackson County offers several trails perfect for trail running, catering to various skill levels. Options include the moderate Wyoming Trail Loop From Dumont Lake, and more difficult runs like the Rabbit Ears Peak trail run or Timber Lake Trail. For more routes, refer to the Running Trails in Jackson County guide.
Yes, the Summit Lake Campground Trail is located near six lakes, providing opportunities for fishing and enjoying serene water surroundings. Willow Creek, the namesake of Willow Creek Pass, also runs along the south side of the pass.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: