Review of Jackson Lake Lodge in Grand Teton National Park

Jackson Lake Lodge contains nearly 350 cottage rooms in its main complex. This in addition to the 37 guest rooms built into the actual lodge. Designed to be a working hotel and a center of activity within Grand Teton National Park, the Lodge provides shops, a restaurant, conference rooms and numerous tour opportunities within the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. The Lodge also is an exceptional example of 1950s "International" style architecture. The building is on the registry of Historic Landmarks. The Lodge's greatest feature is the incredible view. Sitting on a bluff to one side of the gorgeous Jackson Lake, the Lodge looks out on the magnificent vista of the Grand Tetons mountain chain.

The opportunity to view local wildlife in a comfortable setting is a definite plus. Views from the Lodge, particularly the high windows of the Mural Room restaurant, can include moose, elk, coyotes and bears. Beyond the sights, the Lodge goes out of its way to give everyone plenty to do, from whitewater rafting to walking tours. Which also signifies Jackson Lake Lodge's greatest weakness: The value of staying there. Everything remarkable about the Lodge is available to visitors as well. Why pay the high price of a room when you can eat at the restaurant for the cost of a meal? Even more annoying, expect to pay a premium for a room with a view. The accommodations are mediocre even for the more expensive rooms. Small bathrooms and standard hotel layouts should be expected. Of course, you're paying for the location and the sights. Other minor quibbles include the restaurant, which features solid food for high prices. But again, you're really paying for the view.

Deciding whether to stay at the Jackson Lake Lodge simply is a matter of deciding whether it's worth the price premium for one of the best scenic viewpoints in the country. If price is an issue, drop by for the buffet breakfast in the Mural Room. Chew slowly and soak in those mountains. If you do book a room, expect worn-down decor (it is one of the busiest lodges in the nation after all), cramped bathrooms and old-fashioned lighting. The decor is standard overwrought Native American themed, the food is decent and the rooms are fairly standard. But that view: It's really something to be treasured.