A Weekend in {Jackson Hole}

Reaching New Heights

Words & Photos by Hannah J. Phillips

From world-class winter sports to summer fly-fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the perfect place to seek adventure year-round.

Friday

Boasting the only commercial airport located within a national park, Jackson Hole might be the most scenic descent in the country. Head into town, and rejuvenate with a cold-pressed juice from Healthy Being Juicery before exploring downtown Jackson. Wander into countless retail shops and boutiques lining the historic square, and be sure to take pictures under one of the four Elk Antler Arches. In summer, catch the Jackson Hole Shootout at 6pm, commemorating the legend of Clover the Killer and his scrambles with the Shootout Gang. For dinner, head to Glorietta’s for Jackson’s best Italian cuisine or Café Genevieve for a more casual meal on the pet-friendly deck.

Saturday

Persephone Bakery is the best spot to gear up for a full day of hiking in the Tetons. Enjoy artisanal breads, pastries, and Intelligentsia coffee before driving north to the shores of Jenny Lake. Hike the full southern trail to Cascade Canyon, or cut two miles off the hike and catch the gorgeous lake scenery with a quaint 12-minute shuttle boat. Once across the lake, Cascade Canyon trail winds through the pines to Hidden Falls, and don’t miss the scenic detour to Inspiration Point for a panoramic shot of the Jackson Hole valley. Turning back, the trail loops along the north shore in the shadow of Grand Teton. Choose another hike or drive up Signal Mountain for some of the best views in the park. Back in Jackson, reward yourself with local beer at Snake River Brewing, the oldest brewery in Wyoming, followed by steaks at Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse and line-dancing at their bar.

Sunday

You could easily spend another day hiking in the Tetons or kayaking at Colter Bay, but Jackson Hole is also under a 2-hour drive from Yellowstone National Park, where the Grand Loop drive includes copious wildlife and bucket list attractions like the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Grand Prismatic Spring, and – of course – Old Faithful. If you’re seeking wildlife, however, the areas surrounding Jackson Hole offer plenty of opportunities in closer proximity. Try the National Elk Refuge just outside town, where up to 9,000 elk roam in the winter. Guests can enjoy up-close views on daily sleigh rides in winter, or walk and bike the multi-use pathway through summer.

If you go…

Where to Stay: For a true Teton experience, snag a coveted camping site inside the national park, but for a less primitive night’s sleep, head to Anvil Hotel. A converted ski-lodge built in the 1950s, Anvil blends mountain-lodge charm with the modern amenities of a metropolitan resort.

How to get around: The airport has several on-site rental car companies. In winter months, you’ll want an SUV with all-season tires if you plan to drive through the park, but smaller cars can easily manage the paved main road in summer. A shuttle bus (START bus) runs between Jackson Hole and Teton Village, and the city offers a bike share program.

What to pack: Bear spray for hiking! Winter gear and snow boots are needed between October and May. Warmer months allow for shorts and a t-shirt most days, but do prepare for layers at night – and be sure to pack extra padding if camping; temps can drop below the 40s after dark.