Travel Destination: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Travel

The majesty of the Tetons, the magic and sheer vastness of Yellowstone, a reminder of the untamed west and thigh-deep ‘cowboy powder’; Jackson Hole has it all. For many years Jackson Hole has been an outdoor recreation mecca. Whatever your preferred method of getting your adrenaline rush – the options abound in Jackson, from kayaking, white-water rafting, para-sailing, mountain biking, extreme snowmobiling or hucking it off of a monster cliff you’re sure to get your rush on. If your idea of fun is a bit more subdued, not to worry, Jackson Hole has that too. Wildlife viewing, sleigh rides in the elk refuge, chuckwagon dinners, millions of acres of sheer solitude, film festivals, antique car auctions and probably the highest per capita rate of 5 star hotels and restaurants anywhere.

I’ve been traveling for almost forever. When I was young, my folks would take me on interstate roadtrips for horse shows, agricultural expos and any of a number of other things. There were also the many trips over the pass to Yellowstone and/or Jackson, WY. From a very early age I can remember being in absolute awe each and every time the Tetons would come into view. thirty-something years later, this feeling is still not lost on me. After having traveled to six continents and countless countries – having gazed upon many of the world’s wonders, my favorite place on earth remains Jackson and the surrounding area which you have likely heard referred to as Jackson Hole (I’m not going to give a geography lesson here…but if you’re confused or don’t understand what “Jackson Hole” is…ask in the comments..I love talking about it!).

Here is a brief summary of what to see and do if your travels find you in this most spectacular corner of the world:
Winter Travel Activites
The Teton range is the birthplace of modern day “extreme skiing”. Extreme skiing was born the day that Bill Briggs made the first descent of The Grand Teton. A run like that isn’t for everyone but there are plenty of nearly equally daring runs within the boundaries of The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The place to see and be seen is Corbet’s Couloir – a legendary run accessible from the JHMR tram (due for a grand re-opening in Dec. 2008 – join me?).

Another favorite activity is night skiing at the “town hill” Snow King resort.

Apres ski activities abound in the valley. Some of the local favorite watering holes and happening hotspots include The Rancher Bar on the town square; home of the oft praised “Tuesday town meeting” which offers cheap draft beer. The Shady Lady Saloon inside the Snow King hotel has nightly specials. The Mangy Moose at Teton Village (JHMR) has a regionally renown entertainment lineup which features local favorites and some of the best cutting edge artists from around the world. A longtime Wilson, WY favorite is the Stagecoach (the ‘coach in the local vernacular). Reggae night is a favorite amongst visitors and local alike.

A sleigh ride on the National Elk Refuge is an activity that can and should be enjoyed by everyone. If you prioritize speed over serenity, book a snowmobile tour or rental through one of the many local vendors. Trips to Yellowstone are possible and highly recommended. Another spectacular snowmobile trip is to nearby Granite Hot Springs. This pool was built in the 30′s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. There’s really something special about swimming in an outdoor pool surrounded by 6 or more feet of snow. If you’re in the area in late March and don’t mind being in a crowd of mouth-breathing rednecks (slednecks), the Snow King snowmobile hill climb is quite the spectacle. Around the same time of year is the annual Pole – Pedal – Paddle race. Check local news media for up-to-date details on events and activities.

Summer Travel Activities

No matter who I talk to, if they are familiar with my favorite spot in the world, they comment on the summertime crowds. Jackson Hole is a very popular summer tourist destination and for good reason. The natural beauty and myriad of outdoor activities offer a lot to traveler’s from around the world. Keep in mind, however, that getting away from the crowds is rather easy and quite rewarding. There are many activities that will give you a respite from the crowds, yet you’ll never be far from the conveniences of town. There are many hiking and biking trails in very close proximity to town. These trails are suited to all levels of experience and fitness so get out of the car, slow down and take in the beauty of this special part of the world. You can rent a mountain bike at one of many shops in town to give mountain biking a go. Canoe rentals are also popular with many local venues available to learn or hone your boating skills. For those who require more solitude, many trails in the bordering National Forests or National Parks can offer several consecutive days of backpacking without ever seeing another human being. Most overnight back country stays within the National Parks require a permit which can be obtained at the respective park ranger stations for free or a nominal fee.

Many rafting outfitters are available to cater to your desires. Whether you want to shoot the famed rapids of the Snake River Canyon or enjoy a peaceful and scenic float trip through Grand Teton National Park – the choice is your, you can even combine the two for a multi-day trip.

While inside the two National Parks, make sure to catch at least one ranger-led program. I have been to several, and never been disappointed. This area was the stomping ground of my youth (and adulthood) and I always learn something interesting during these programs, and best of all they’re free!

In Yellowstone, besides the published “things to see and do” I highly recommend a swim in the Firehole Canyon. To get there, take the scenic Firehole Canyon drive (near Madison Junction). This is my favorite swimming hole in the world. In fact, stay tuned the The Life Nomadic as I will eventually write an entire piece dedicated to the Firehole Canyon swimming experience.

I have listed but a sliver of the activities available in Jackson Hole. There is much more to see and do here and you really should make time to visit or visit again this wonderful place. I wish I had bandwidth available to post more pictures…it’s just too tedious.

Will @ June 27, 2008