JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING
Breathtaking scenery, winding rivers and endless outdoor activities make this Western mountain valley a must-visit, says Kristen Pope
DAY 1 images: alamy; awl images; getty; Wyoming Office of Tourism
Ringed by the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges and with the winding Snake River running through the valley, Jackson Hole is a nature lover’ s paradise. It’ s a great place to spot bison, elk, grizzly and black bears, bald eagles and to get a taste of the wilderness in the Western U. S.
Fuel up for a day of adventure with breakfast at Persephone bakery and cafe. Grab a table on the outdoor patio and choose from the likes of brioche French toast, scone skillet or a seeded avocado bowl. Wander down the street to Jackson’ s iconic Town Square, with its famous elk antler arches on each corner. Elk are an integral part of life in Jackson Hole, and the 24,700 + acre National Elk Refuge, where thousands of them spend their winters, is just north of here. Take a few minutes to peruse the numerous boutiques, galleries and gift shops. The Jackson Hole Farmers Market is a nice way to spend an hour or two if you’ re visiting on a Sunday. Wildlife and photography lovers shouldn’ t miss Thomas D. Mangelsen’ s Images of Nature Gallery, which includes the local photographer’ s incredible images of wildlife in Jackson Hole and around the globe. Oenophiles should swing by Jackson Hole Winery’ s tasting room to sample some wine at high altitude.
After exploring the town, get ready for a half-day of whitewater rafting. Slather on sunscreen, grab any necessary gear and head to the designated pick-up point for the trip. Many operators offer whitewater rafting as well as scenic floats on calmer stretches of the Snake River with the chance of spotting wildlife like moose and bald eagles. Trips vary, but the eight-mile whitewater float and one popular scenic float option are each about three to four hours long, depending on flow levels. Then, stay on the river theme by returning to town and heading to Snake River Brewing. Established in 1994, this locals’ favorite brewpub is often called‘ Jackson’ s living room’, and pours locally-brewed Pako’ s IPA and Jenny Lake Lager, among others. On its menu, expect bison burgers, bison and beef chili, pizzas, salads and much more.
For dinner, head to The Blue Lion( book in advance), a historic house on Millward Street. Enjoy the famed rack of lamb or sample the array of game and fish on offer.
In the evening, head to Snow King Mountain to gaze at distant worlds through a telescope in the mountaintop observatory and planetarium. On select summer evenings, concerts are held on top of the mountain— be sure to book ahead. summer 2025 • 21