Journeys in Jackson

Downtown Jackson Hole

So for the family vacay this year we went to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Let me start by saying Jackson has ALWAYS been one of my dad's dream destinations. Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw, the dream of being a cowboy etc. This year he finally made a reality of it and booked a house in Driggs Idaho (check out VRBO for houses). He told me and my siblings if we could fly out to Jackson he would book the rest of the excursions. Naturally I was ALL IN (go Clemson Tigers). My parents and siblings were able to stay the full week, but I only stayed for four days because of work. Overall, Jackson is beautiful. I WILL be back. So here are some of the things we did that I would recommend:

- White water rafting with Jackson Hole Whitewater

We had a great time white water rafting on the Snake River. Our guide, Alex, was excellent and she helped us navigate the 8-mile trip while safely passing through "Big Kahuna" and various other rapids. I thought this company was pretty cool because on their "bragging wall" they had letters thanking them for the experience from various celebrities, like Jack Johnson, and US President Bill Clinton. Once you get all geared up (I didn't rent a wet suit, but my dad and brother did), you take a 30-minute bus ride to the river. Then we were off! Alex offered interesting tidbits about the river, rafting, and general safety. She let a few of us "ride the bull" aka sit on the front of the raft during smaller rapids, jump in the Snake River (which I did!!), and even did a backflip off the raft herself. We had so much fun. Yes, the water was a chilly 45ish degrees, but I'm so happy I'll always be able to I swam in the Snake River. Technically speaking, the Snake River is far larger and more challenging than other rivers we've rafted before like the Nantahala. Overall, this is definitely an experience I would recommend to anyone venturing to Jackson.

- The Tram

Located in Teton Village, the Aerial Tram travels 4,139 vertical feet in only 12 minutes. The summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Tetons, Jackson Hole valley and surrounding mountain ranges. The "Top of the World" provides amazing access to a plethora of great hiking and running trails, climbing, and the occasional snowball fight. When we got to the top there was still snow (in JULY) on the top that Matthew, naturally, threw in my face. Yes, old snow stings worse than fresh snow. Sadly, we weren't able to try the famous gourmet waffles at Corbet's Cabin as they had just closed, but we did get to go to the resort's rooftop restaurant for drinks. I, of course, ordered a tasty sangria and edamame. The Tram is a family-friendly excursion that's great for individuals with small children or limited mobility. One can still enjoy gorgeous views without all the hiking!

- Downtown Jackson Hole

Downtown Jackson is basically everything you would dream of in a traditional tourist trap. I spent an extensive amount of time here because I arrived in Jackson almost 8 hours before the rest of my family (they should've flown Delta). I piddled around the local bars and restaurants sampling beers and appetizers. Most of the stores had a traditional t-shirt or souvenirs. They also had a few very small museums. Overall, I think it's fine for a couple of hours, but I wouldn't plan on this being a full-day event.

I sampled the famous traditional places like the Cowboy Bar and local breweries IPAs. We wrapped up the evening with a trip to the rodeo! That was a worthwhile and fun experience! I had so much fun seeing the kiddos ride the sheep and small bulls. The culture is so different from South Carolina, but I enjoyed every second of it.

- Grand Targhee Resort

Grand Targhee is a scenic ski resort locates in Grand Teton National Park. We went hiking and horseback riding in the park. They also offer mountain biking during the summer and skiing/snowboarding in the winter.

Horseback riding was gorgeous and I loved the 3-4 hour ride. I haven't ridden horses in years, but it's a skill I've really missed. My mom struggled a little more with the endeavor (resulting in her being tied to our guide), but everyone else also enjoyed the experience! The hiking was pretty remote. We took a ski lift to the top of the mountain and hiked down. The trail was difficult to follow at times and definitely not ADA compliant. The steep inclines and rolling mountains were stunning. It almost made me less nervous about snakes, bears and plummeting to my death. I wish we had more time at this resort. I would love to go back and spend more time here.

- Grand Teton National Park

On my last day of this family vacay, we went to Grand Teton National Park. Unfortunately, Yellowstone would have taken too long for us to do with my flight out that afternoon. Protip: Jackson Hole Airport is notoriously small and regular TSA rules don't apply (my precheck meant nothing). Be prepared to wait a LONG time to get through security.

Anyway, I digress, Grand Teton National Park was BEAUTIFUL. I highly recommend Jenny Lake and the trail accompanying it. Bring your bear spray! We didn't see any bears, but there were parts of trails blocked off due to recent sightings. I think the hike was a little over 2 miles. It was definitely busier than our previous hike at Grand Targhee, but pretty nonetheless. We also enjoyed taking a ferry back to the mainland instead of hiking 4 miles roundtrip. Normally we would've hiked the whole trail, but with my flight, we had to get to the airport early.

For anyone with a love of the wilderness, Jackson Hole is right for you! I hope to go back to Jackson very soon and enjoy the skiing. It's definitely a place that makes my soul sing.

What about you? Would you pick the beach or mountains?

Until next time,

L