JACKSON, Wyo. — Those who have had a longer tenure in Jackson might remember the quiet ghost-town-like offseasons of the pre-pandemic era. From October to mid-December and much of April and May, Jackson was quiet, restaurants would shutter their doors or offer 2-for-1 specials and parking on the streets would be abundant.
In recent years, especially following the pandemic, the offseason seems to be a thing of the past. While spring and fall remain quieter than July, public sentiment regarding offseason has evolved.
Recent changes to year-round parking availability in town have resurrected questions about when peak season occurs. Overnight street parking is allowed from April 15 to Nov. 1, although Town of Jackson Public Works Director Johnny Ziem told Buckrail that the busiest months in town in terms of parking are typically June through mid-August.
Buckrail decided to ask its readers what they believe to be peak season these days. General sentiment agreed that peak season is more and more prevalent. “[Peak season is] all the time now,” a respondent said. “There is no more ‘offseason.’ You wrecked it.”
“There are two peaks seasons. June 1 to Oct. 1, and Dec. 21 to March 15,” one reader responded.
Most others responded with April 15 to Nov. 1. Some stated that Memorial Day to Labor Day was the peak season.
One reader, a Jackson local, said the offseason remains. “March and Nov. when all the tourists and part timers are gone and the people like me, born and raised here can find a parking spot and enjoy what Jackson used to be like!”
