Last week was my first trip to the 'Wild West' - it's embarrassing that I'd never been to Yellowstone nor The Grand Tetons being I'm pretty well traveled!
I set out to experience the area, to explore and take part in all of the outdoorsy activities I love in such a place and be able to share with my readers: The lowdown. So, here it is ...
Jackson Hole the town itself was underwhelming, and surprisingly touristy-town-honky-tonk. There is very little of style and zing - maybe (in town itself) only the famed restaurant "Snake River Grill" which was very good food and nice-looking, nothing memorable. The restaurant of the Rusty Parrot Inn is cosy, a bit more atmospheric and serves great food. But: the region is absolutely gorgeous with its mind blowing mountain-scapes, dramatic Fall foliage, streams, rivers and lakes and ALL of the aforementioned also makes up The Grand Tetons and Yellowstone Park.
Here are the reasons to go:
Winter: Skiing (advanced skiing mostly known for)
Late Spring: White water rafting, hiking, spending time in The Grand Tetons, Fly fishing
Summer: As above + the annual music festival (there are two), wine auction
This is a wonderful family destination if kids are 7-8 years +
Where to Stay:
I split the trip into two: first 3 nights at The Amangani, second 3 nights at The Four Seasons Teton Village. Read my mini-reviews on each and why I recommend each, for different reasons (click on each hotel name):
- If Yellowstone is you/ your family's goal - be a tourist and stay at The Old Faithful Inn a couple nights, then go stay in Jackson Hole
- Eat at "Osteria" in Teton Village (next to The Four Seasons) - best food of all the places we tried (and bartender Frank Welch makes fab cocktails)
- Very important are the guides you choose - we liked Dave Hanson for River trips and our friends The Wallbens who have a house there recommend highly Exum Mountain Guides
- If you get stuck on top of a Mountain while hiking, it is possible Harrison Ford will come for you; he owns a large ranch-compound and is a volunteer rescue pilot. As tempting as it is to be rescued by Indiana Jones himself: don't get yourself into any outdoor activity that is beyond your capacity. We heard too many stories.
- There are bears (we did not see one) - if going hiking get prepared
- Moose are a true wonder - I was as excited seeing the Moose family as I've been seeing lions in Africa!
Other places to go, stay, experience?
Check my growing collection of reviews on What's Worth It
Enjoy!