Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Jackson, Wyoming
1901 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-12.4°C
Temperature Drop
80.5kPa
Air Pressure
79.4%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation1901 meters
Everest Comparison21.5% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionWyoming
Highest PointRendezvous Peak (3185 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Summit
3185 meterselevation
Town Square
1901 meterselevation
Snow King Summit
2395 meterselevation
National Elk Refuge
1889 meterselevation
Cache Creek Trail
1950 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Jackson occupies a broad valley floor at 1,901 meters, nestled between the Teton Range and the Gros Ventre Mountains. The town sits at the confluence of Flat Creek and Cache Creek, where the valley floor shows extensive glacial modification from the Pleistocene epoch. The surrounding landscape includes dramatic glacial features such as moraines, erratics, and outwash plains. The geology reveals complex interactions between the uplifted Teton block and valley-filling sediments, while the Snake River aquifer system influences local hydrology. The valley position creates a natural convergence point for wildlife migration routes, particularly evident in the adjacent National Elk Refuge.
Climate Impact
At 1,901 meters, Jackson experiences a mountain valley climate characterized by significant seasonal extremes. The elevation produces marked temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 29°C and winter lows dropping to -34°C. Annual snowfall averages 460cm, enhanced by the valley's position relative to prevailing storm tracks. The surrounding mountains create pronounced rain shadow effects, while also generating complex valley wind patterns. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 81% of sea level, noticeably affecting both human physiology and engine performance. The growing season typically lasts 90 days, though frost can occur in any month. The valley orientation often traps cold air masses, leading to severe temperature inversions during winter months.
Historical Context
Jackson's relationship with elevation shaped its development from a late 19th-century cattle ranching outpost into a world-renowned mountain resort. The establishment of Snow King in 1939 as Wyoming's first ski area required innovative solutions for operating lifts at high elevation. The construction of Teton Pass Highway demonstrated early mastery of mountain road engineering, while the development of Jackson Hole Airport at 1,966 meters made it one of the highest-elevation commercial airports in the country. The town's architecture evolved to handle significant snow loads, with early log structures giving way to modern designs that maintain mountain character while meeting strict energy codes. The establishment of the National Elk Refuge in 1912 recognized the crucial role of elevation in wildlife migration patterns, while modern Jackson continues to balance development with wildlife needs through innovative land-use policies.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Jackson's Elevation
What is the elevation of Jackson?
Jackson has an elevation of 1901 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Jackson's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Jackson (1901 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Jackson?
The highest point in Jackson is Rendezvous Peak (3185 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
