Trade in your flip flops for hiking boots this summer in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. From line dancing to trekking the Tetons, you’ll never be bored! Keep reading for advice on where to sleep, eat, and play out west.
Catching your zzz’s in Wyoming’s trees
The size of your crew will determine what accommodations work best for your trip. Ranging from sleeping under the stars to snoozing in style, there are a variety of options to choose from.
If glamping isn’t your thing, consider finding lodging through Jackson Hole rentals. Villas are a fantastic way to sleep large groups in a luxurious yet rustic setting. From Teton Village to Jackson Town, there are a variety of locations to choose from. All rentals include a state of the art kitchen and plenty of room to relax in after a long day outdoors.
On the other hand, travelling with a significant other lends itself to a spa resort. My first time in Wyoming was a weekend getaway; we were lucky enough to snag a room at the Four Seasons. Sipping on my morning cup of joe with a view of Rendezvous Mountain was the perfect way to start a Saturday.
Where to feast in the forest
Speaking of satisfying your morning fix, stop by Pearl Street Bagels for a cappuccino and a sun-dried tomato everything bagel. Normally I steer clear of carbs, but that bagel was just the energy I needed for a day of hiking. There are locations in downtown Jackson and Wilson to choose from.
If your travels take you to the Jackson Hole ski resort area, the Handle Bar is a fantastic eatery. Calm your mid-afternoon hangry with a homemade pretzel mustache and brew. However, if trekking the Tetons doesn’t allow time for a lunch of leisure, pack one and dine in the great outdoors.
After a long day of nature filled adventure, you’ll be looking for a feast! There are a variety of options in downtown Jackson, but Bin22 should not be missed. Admittedly I’m a little biased because I’m a huge fan of tapas. Most recently having stuffed my face in Tenerife. The bacon wrapped dates are my personal favorite. Be sure to call ahead and make reservations, or you will be out of luck!
Making the most of your time at Grand Teton: Jackson Hole to Yellowstone
So when it comes to national parks, Yellowstone tends to get all the notoriety. While it is a beautiful park worth seeing, it would be a shame to short change a trip to the Tetons just to see Old Faithful. To get from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone would take you about a couple of hours, so it really is up to you if you’d like to see both parks, but if not, nature is at your doorstep with the easily accessible Grand Teton National Park.
This summer a unique treat is in store, a solar eclipse will be happening in August. For the rugged-outdoorsy type, there are multiple campgrounds located within the park parameters. In fact, it’s the best way to check out this scientific wonder.
Jackson Hole to Yellowstone Fast Facts:
- Approximately 57 miles
- Most popular months for Yellowstone: July and August
- Entrance fee: $35 USD (private non-commercial vehicle); valid for 7 days from date of purchase
If you are only planning to go to Grand Teton, the pass is thirty dollars per vehicle.
But if the timing is right, there are a handful of days each year that have free admission!
Trekking the Tetons for all ages
When my travel buddy suggested hiking, my gut reaction was ‘oh hell no, I’m not prepared to hike Mount Everest! Give me my wine glass back! Low and behold I quickly learned that the Grand Tetons are accessible to hikers (or in my case couch potatoes) of all ability levels.
Besides climbing alpine country, options include hikes that take less than a few hours to a few days. The park also offers a mobile app containing maps, tours, and points of interest available for download. We choose a light hike around Phelps lake, followed by an afternoon picnic on the rocks by the shore. This city girl took in some fresh air and ended up loving trekking the Tetons.
For those with extreme allergies (including to exercise), the Tetons can also be taken in via helicopter ride for a fee of course. This is a warmer option compared to the aerial tram to the top.
Tram your way to the top
Speaking of trams, if trekking the Tetons by foot isn’t your cup of tea, try the aerial tram at Jackson Hole. For twenty-nine dollars you can ride to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. The 4,139 foot ride takes about twenty five minutes to reach the summit. Be sure to bring warm clothes, because the weather is quite balmy at the top. Even in June. Trust me, I wished that I had mittens and earmuffs on hand.
Mittens and earmuffs required in June!
Tear up the dance floor at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
To overcome the frostbite acquired at the summit, throw back a few beers at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. The bar offers live bands nightly, and once the beer is flowing toes start tapping. Before you know it half the bar is line dancing.
If you have two left feet, the bar offers dancing lessons every Thursday at 7:30 during peak season. I’ll be over at the bar, sitting on a saddle getting a good laugh at your dancing skills. Don’t worry, once I’ve had a few drinks, you’ll be sure to get the last laugh on the dance floor.
All the fresh air, trekking the Tetons, and tearing up the dance floor equates to a western getaway that you’ll never forget. Have I convinced you to book your ticket yet?
Have you been to Jackson Hole? Where’s your favorite place to go hiking? Have you driven from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone before?
Oh gosh yes, you have convinced me. Now if only I can get rid of the kids for a couple of weeks and enjoy those views! Mich x
Gosh, this sounds like an amazing place! I like the sound of the Bagels! I like hiking, this sounds like a really lovely experience! Thank you for sharing.