By Kirk Brown
Things to Do Around Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The scenic Wyoming valley known as Jackson Hole is one of America's premier winter and summer playgrounds. Crowds of skiers and snowboarders rule the winter months, giving way to bikers, climbers, hikers and rafters during the summer. The factors that don't change with the season are the area's authentic cowboy culture, abundant wildlife and the spectacular Teton Range. In a little more than a century, Jackson Hole has evolved from a frontier outpost into a world-class destination that hosts more than 3 million tourists yearly.
Strap on the Skis
With 2,500 acres of terrain, a vertical drop measuring more than 4,100 feet and 459 inches of average annual snowfall, the famed Jackson Hole Mountain resort offers consistently superb conditions for skiers and snowboarders. The resort includes 116 trails and 11 lifts that can move 16,733 skiers per hour.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
3395 Cody Lane
Teton Village, WY 83025
Phone: (307 733-2292) or (888 333-7766)
See the Tetons
The jagged Teton Range is the eye-catching attraction at Grand Teton National Park. Soaring up from the floor of Jackson Hole, Grand Teton itself reaches a height of 13,770 feet. In addition to majestic peaks, the park features pristine alpine lakes, colorful summer wildflowers and wildlife ranging from bison, elk and moose to eagles, marmots and trout. There is a $25 fee per vehicle for entry into the park. The fee is good for seven days and also includes entry into nearby Yellowstone National Park.
Grand Teton National Park
Moose, WY 83012-0170
Phone: (307 739-3300)
Go Whitewater Rafting
Several outfitters lead a variety of whitewater rafting excursions through what's known as the Grand Canyon of the Snake River. This rollicking 8-mile stretch of whitewater includes several class II and class III rapids, as well as underwater waterfall. Jackson Hole Whitewater's experienced river guides are considered to be among the best.
Jackson Hole Whitewater
650 West Broadway
Jackson, WY 83001
Phone: (307 733-1007) or (800 700-7238)
Witness a Shootout and Visit the Silver Dollar Bar
Jackson is the main city in Jackson Hole. On summer nights spectators gather around Jackson's Town Square to witness a nightly cowboy gunfight. The hollering and shooting begin at 6 p.m.
After the smoke clears, check out the Wort Hotel's Silver Dollar Bar, which includes 2,032 inlaid silver dollars. There are also original oil paintings by western artist Ray McCarty, as well as live music on most weekends.
Wort Hotel
Glennwood & Broadway
Jackson, Wy 83001
Phone: (800 322-2727)
Ride the Bridger Gondola
Passengers may take this tram from the Teton Village to a 9,000-foot mountain summit during the summer. In addition to serving as a starting point for adventurous hikers, climbers and paragliding enthusiasts, the summit is home to a pair of restaurants. Adults must pay $16 to $19 to ride the gondola, with rates ranging from $8 to $10 for kids. Children 5 and under ride for free.
Bridger Gondola
3395 W. Village Drive
Teton Village, WY 83025
Phone: (307 733-2292)
Go Down the Alpine Slide
The Alpine Slide extends through 2,500 feet of woods and wildflowers on Snow King Mountain. Riders can control their own speed, meaning the downhill journey can be as relaxing or as exhilarating as they choose. Miniature golf, snacks and a picnic area are available at the bottom of the slide. Single rides cost $12 to $15.
Alpine Slide
400 E. Snow King Ave.,
Jackson, WY 83001
Phone: (307 733-5200) or (800 522-5464)
About the Author:
Kirk Brown is an award-winning freelance writer with two decades of diverse media experience. A former newspaper reporter and editor, he also was managing editor of an acclaimed scuba diving magazine. Brown has written scripts for more than 50 half-hour TV programs focusing on technology and health topics.
Photo Credits:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuckincustoms/611311642/
