Jackson Hole’s dramatic mountain backdrop and pristine environment make it one of the most beautiful places to live in the West—and its forests are a huge part of that charm. From the cottonwoods lining the Snake River to towering conifers in the alpine zones, the variety of native tree species is impressive. At Teton Rope Access, we spend a lot of time working in and around these trees, so we know which ones dominate the landscape—and which ones may need extra care or removal.
Whether you’re planting new trees, managing forest health, or considering professional tree care in Jackson Hole, it’s helpful to know what you’re working with. Here are the top 5 most common tree species in the Jackson Hole area—and what you should know about each one.
1. Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)
The most abundant tree in the Jackson Hole valley, lodgepole pines are tall, straight, and often found growing in dense stands. They play an important ecological role after wildfires and are highly adapted to local soil and climate. However, their shallow root systems make them vulnerable to blowdown during windstorms.
Watch out for: beetle infestations and root rot. Dying lodgepoles can fall unexpectedly, especially during snow load or high wind events.
2. Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
With their shimmering leaves and brilliant yellow fall color, aspens are among the most iconic trees in the Tetons. These fast-growing deciduous trees often grow in large clonal groves, meaning many are connected by a shared root system. They’re beautiful, but can become hazardous when dead or diseased.
Fun fact: Aspens are one of the largest living organisms by mass—entire groves can share a single root structure that’s thousands of years old.
3. Engelmann Spruce (Picea engelmannii)
These conifers are native to higher elevations and can grow up to 100 feet tall. They have dense, blue-green needles and a straight, narrow form. Spruces are a common sight in alpine forests and are often used in landscaping because of their classic shape and resilience to cold.
Tree care tip: Watch for spruce beetle infestations, which can rapidly kill trees and pose a falling hazard. We recommend regular health checks for mature spruces near homes or driveways.
4. Cottonwood (Populus angustifolia and Populus deltoides)
Large cottonwoods are often found near rivers and creeks in Jackson Hole. Their wide canopies offer welcome shade and incredible fall foliage. But these trees can grow brittle with age, and their shallow roots often crack sidewalks or lift nearby structures.
Removal warning: Dead or hollow cottonwoods are among the most dangerous trees to remove due to their unpredictable break patterns. Always use a professional team with experience in Jackson tree removal and rope access techniques.
5. Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
Douglas firs are some of the most majestic trees in the valley. They’re highly adaptable, with thick bark that offers protection from wildfires. These evergreens are often found alongside lodgepoles and spruce in mixed forests. Their strength and longevity make them excellent for both landscaping and forest health.
Care tip: While Doug firs are generally hardy, they benefit from selective pruning to remove deadwood and reduce snow load stress in winter.
Expert Tree Care for the Tetons
No matter what species of tree is on your property, Teton Rope Access provides expert tree removal, trimming, risk assessments, and seasonal maintenance across Jackson Hole, Alpine, and Star Valley. Our rope-access methods mean we can safely reach tall trees, steep slopes, and hard-to-access areas without damaging your landscape.
Call us at (307) 231-5485 or email us today to schedule your tree evaluation or removal service.
Whether you’re dealing with a leaning cottonwood or just need advice on protecting your aspens, we’re here to help—season after season.
