All posts by gliffen

Old Faithful | Yellowstone National Park

Lasting over 20 minutes and usually occurring every 25 – 120 minutes, the Old Faithful of Yellowstone National Park is one of the most or possibly the most famous geyser in the United States. When she goes big, Old Faithful can reach heights of 184ft discharging over 8,000 gallons of water! When you’re here, you don’t want to miss these events and we know just where to stay and be so you don’t miss out.

The Old Faithful Inn

The Old Faithful Inn is located just behind the viewing area for the geyser and is the largest log structure in the World! The Inn was built from 1903 to 1904 featuring a large stone fireplace, and built using local sources of timber. The Inn is the most requested hotel inside of Yellowstone. For more information, please visit their website (OLD FAITHFUL INN WEBSITE).

Guided Tours

The Old Faithful Inn offers Guided Tours and Adventures that depart directly from the Inn and can supplement you in your discovery of the National Park. For more options on tours from different guides, the National Park Service has a complete list of approved companies that are authorized to guide in Yellowstone. (The link is provided below… )

The National Park Service: The NPS has an excellent website on companies that are approved for tours within Yellowstone. Click HERE for more information.

First Time in Jackson Hole?

Are you ready to check off some bucket list items? Then load up the gear, pack up the suitcases, gather the crew and let’s get going! Jackson Hole is a perfect Old West town that just so happens to be surrounded by national parks. It truly doesn’t get much better than this. With access to all of the greatest spots within reach, we’ll show you were to go and what’s happening to make your first trip to Jackson, your best trip ever.

The Bar T 5 – Jackson Hole’s Original Chuck Wagon Dinner

Experience a true chuck wagon dinner with The Bar T 5! You get a triple whammy with traveling by horse drawn covered wagons from the Town of Jackson into beautiful Cache Creek Canyon followed by an incredible Dutch Oven dinner and the Bar T 5 Band taking the stage to entertain you with laughter and great hand-clapping music.

Horseback Riding

Mill Iron Ranch

Mill Iron Ranch offers a variety of options for riders. From 2-hr Mountain Horseback trail rides to Half Day and Full Day trail rides. Join authentic cowboys for a day on the trails and then an evening of cowboy fun!  The Mill Iron Ranch provides guests with unparalleled trail riding and scenery and did you know, Mill Iron horses are born and raised on the ranch? Visit Today!

Spring Creek Ranch

Offering both grouped and private trail rides, Spring Creek Ranch allows guests and non-guests to take advantage of the most beautiful scenery and trails Jackson Hole has to offer. Ride atop the East Gros Ventre Butte with Spring Creek Ranch’s Castagno Outfitters and take in unique views of the Teton Range, as well as the town of Jackson and the surrounding area.

Let’s Go Floating!

A must do for Jackson Hole is a float on the Snake River, either in the rapid section of the “Canyon” for those adventurous types or the scenic section through Grand Teton National Park for sightseeing. Dave Hansen WhitewaterMad RiverJackson Hole WhitewaterBarker Ewing, and Solitude are all great companies to book river adventures with. Learn more here: www.jacksonhole.net/Activities/WhiteWaterRafting.

Venture Into the Wild

We have wildlife! Lots of it! But in order to see these sneaky little (and large) friends, you have to put a little effort in. Get up early and drive down Moose Wilson Road (WY 390) extremely slowly. Stay up in Yellowstone for a night and find a nice lazy stream that you can overlook from the safety of your car. Be patient. Bring binoculars. When you see a couple of cars stopped, it’s likely elk, moose or buffalo. If you see a lot of cars stopped, it’s probably a bear or a wolf. Have those cameras ready!

You must visit Yellowstone and at least plan to spend one day there. You can drive the lower loop of the figure 8 that is Yellowstone in a day but be aware…you will be coming back to Jackson Hole. Yellowstone’s natural geological features are AMAZING! Be sure to visit Old Faithful. Visit the Lamar Valley in the early morning or late evening to see wildlife.

Hotels vs Vacation Rentals

When going anywhere away from home, there is usually a key question that arises. Where should we stay? Ultimately, the choices are either a beautiful hotel here in Jackson or the freedoms and feelings of home in a vacation rental. Pricing is of course a factor so we’re going to throw a few options your way to get things rolling.

Vacation Rentals

When it comes to vacation rentals in Jackson, there are some absolutely beautiful places for you and the family to stay vs a hotel room. Certainly some obvious choices like AirBnB & VRBO but on top of those, there are some amazingly luxurious places to hang your hat while in Jackson.


Hotels

Sometimes you don’t need the entire house or, maybe it’s just you on a quick business trip. Whatever your reason, or your fancy, there is lots to choose from when it comes to hotel stays here in Jackson Hole. We’ve listed a few to get you on your way down the trail without hazard.

Trout, Chubs, & Suckers Oh My!

It’s almost May 2022 and soon there will be plenty of fishing opportunities to be had in these parts. If you’re an avid angler, you don’t want to miss out on the fun of fishing in and around the Jackson region. With some of the most pristine locations to enjoy the outdoors, it’s no wonder visitors come from all over to grab a catch or two.

Load Up! – Grab Supplies Before You Go

There is always something you either don’t want to travel with, don’t need until you get there or, of course, you forgot and left at the house. Whatever your reason, here is a list of great shops in the area that have what you need.

JD High Country Outfitters
Orvis
West Bank Anglers
Snake River Anglers
World Cast Anglers
TRR Outfitters Fly Shop
Henry’s Fork Anglers

Would You Like a Guide?

While guide’s are not a necessary part of your trip or experience out in the river fly fishing, they are an excellent way to have a knowledgeable helping hand that can get you to the fish, help you tie your flies and even assist with chow for the guests and crew. If you are thinking of or actively looking for a guide, here are a few to help get you started.

Wandering Angler
Grand Fishing
Fish the Fly
Real Deal Anglers
Chef Scott Nechay (Truly Unique!)

Where To Go Fly Fishing

You’ve got the bags packed, the gear you want to travel with prepared and you’re ready to go, but where to? If you haven’t thought about the exact location you want to head to when fly fishing here in the region, don’t worry, we’ve got a few spots you can look at before you go.

Jackson Lake
Slide Lake
Island Park, Yellowstone
Henry’s Lake
The Palisades

Kick Back and Relax in Jackson Hole!

Sometimes, you just want to relax and other days, you need to recuperate your spent energy from the slopes or the trails. In Jackson, we understand and we have some of the absolute best spots to kick back, relax and refuel.

Rusty Parrot Spa & Lodge

All of Jackson Hole’s day spas have their own blend of services and expertise. Perhaps our oldest and most popular day spa in Jackson Hole is the Body Sage Spa at the Rusty Parrot. This spa offers unique bathhouse traditions from Finland, Morocco, and Japan in addition to traditional spa services. Or you could whisk away to SpaTerre, located in Teton Mountain Lodge out in Teton Village, which provides a complete assortment of spa services, including an Oxygen Bar and several age-defying facial and body massage treatments.

Jackson Hole Spa

A lot is to be expected of a Four Seasons Resort spa, and the Jackson Hole Spa in our Four Seasons does not disappoint. This beautiful and relaxing spa offers a variety of spa services, specializing in deep tissue massages and treatments using locals herbs aimed at rejuvenating you for another day of fun in Jackson Hole.

The Chill Spa

The Chill Spa, located in Hotel Terra,  offers unique body wraps, couples massages (with chocolate and champagne!) and microdermabrasion as an add-on in their facials. If you are looking to incorporate additional Eastern traditions into your spa experience, Tootsy’s Footsy Lounge offers reflexology massages in addition to other traditional spa treatments.

SpaTerre

SpaTerre is a 12,000 sq. ft. destination spa where they practice Thai body rituals to rejuvenate you for another day of adventure in Jackson. Equipped with everything from ten treatment rooms to an infrared sauna and salt chamber to a full oxygen bar. For more information or to book a spa day, please visit their website.

Checking Out the Nightlife in Jackson

Day time activities with the family are certainly plentiful. Lots to do on the slopes and the on the trails but what about the nightlife. Is there anything to do when it’s time to let loose in Jackson? Oh you bet there is, and we’re here to send you off in the right direction to the top 5 spots both locals and travelers enjoy.

1. Million Dollar Cowboy Bar

Located on the town square in the heart of Jackson, The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is Wyoming’s landmark watering hole. A unique Western drinking and entertainment venue, the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is no ordinary bar. It’s known to have countless celebrities, presidents, royalty, cowhands, as well as people from all walks of life, enjoy great fun within the walls of the iconic venue.

2. StillWest Brewery & Grill

StillWest Brewery features open‐air, mountain side dining on their patio that just so happens to overlook Snow King Mountain. StillWest serves artfully crafted beers and made from scratch and sourced from local purveyors, seasonal, inspired cocktails, top‐notch wine and spirits. Swing in after a long day on the slopes for a flight and burger to set yourself up right for the night.

3. Mangy Moose

Breakfast, lunch, & dinner, the Mangy Moose is considered one of Jackson’s best steakhouses with libations and live music. Have you ever tried Bison or Elk? The Mangy Moose features an eclectic menu to go along with their eclectic décor.

4. Snake River Brewery

A hot-spot during the Summer for locals and tourists alike, the Snake Brewery is one of Jackson’s most award winning brewery’s. Not much to say except, this is one of the best all-around places to eat/drink in town. Can’t leave Jackson without trying one of their famous beers.

5. Sidewinders | Casual American Pub

Sidewinders is a family-friendly restaurant and a gathering place for the it’s community. With a down home feel and founded by US Marines, this American Pub hits it’s mark with food and beverage options. Sidewinders carries Snake River Breweries products along with other cocktails and libations to wash down some of the best food in town.

Rendezvous Spring Festival

The Jackson Hole Rendezvous Spring Festival is a two-day music festival on April 1-2, 2022, providing the most iconic backdrops imaginable for our legendary music acts: historic downtown Jackson Town Square and the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, with Fitz and The Tantrums and Grammy-winning blues/rock heroes Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals headlining the festival.

April 1st • Town of Jackson

FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS

Multiplatinum-selling artists Fitz and The Tantrums have quickly grown from independent upstarts to bona fide hit-makers. The LA-based band released their much-anticipated, fourth full-length album, “All the Feels,” featuring singles “123456” and “I Just Wanna Shine” in 2019. “All the Feels” follows the band’s 2016 self-titled album, which spawned the group’s biggest hit to date, “HandClap.” The RIAA-certified two-time platinum single has logged more than 400 million global streams, went top 5 on both the Hot AC and Alternative Radio charts, and enjoyed major airplay across the country at Top 40. 

Fitz and The Tantrums are Michael “Fitz” Fitzpatrick (vocals), Noelle Scaggs (vocals), James King (saxophone, flute), Jeremy Ruzumna (keyboards), Joseph Karnes (bass) and John Wicks (drums, percussion).

BRETT DENNEN

Brett Dennen is telling us to get out and see the world at a time when we need it more than ever. Flame-haired, six-foot-five and with a singular gift for meditating on life’s most meaningful subjects with equal parts innocence and razor-sharp wit, you know Dennen from his decade-plus career as a singer-songwriter. With a successful string of albums and four Top Ten AAA singles like “Make You Crazy,” “Wild Child,” and 2018’s “Already Gone,” which achieved his highest chart position yet, Dennen has cemented himself as a fixture in American folk music. What you may not know about Brett is that he did not set out to be a professional musician. It’s a surprising revelation for someone who embodies the best of songwriting: singular storytelling, singability and the unique capacity to hold up a mirror to our lives, our society and the greater world.

April 2nd • Teton Village

BEN HARPER & THE INNOCENT CRIMINALS

Ben Harper’s career spans nearly three decades and 12 studio albums, and he’s celebrated as an iconic guitarist and diverse multi-instrumentalist who bridges rock, blues, folk, reggae and soul genres. He is a three-time Grammy winner, including awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album in 2004 and Best Blues Album in 2013. His two bestselling albums, “Burn to Shine” and “Diamonds on the Inside,” made him a mainstay on rock charts and at American musical festivals and were both certified gold.

COLD WAR KIDS

Cold War Kids have been a regular fixture on alt-rock radio and festival circuits since their 2006 debut Robbers and Cowards, which was powered by the certified gold single “Hang Me Up To Dry.” The group found chart success again in 2015 with platinum single “First,” which reached #1 on the alternative rock charts, and was the most played song on alternative radio of the last decade. They’ve released nine studio albums with their most recent, New Age Norms 3, arriving in September 2021 and featuring another top 10 single, “What You Say”.

THE WAILERS

Not many bands can claim genuine legend status. The Wailers comfortably claim their place in essential music history. Their music was, and is, culture-defining: rebel hearts with brave souls embodying the spirit of 70s era-defining reggae.

In late 2020, The Wailers released their single, “One World, One Prayer”, a powerful piece focused on unity, love and inclusion beyond cultural differences. “One World,” the album that marks The Wailers’ return to the recording studio and the band’s first album in 25 years, was nominated for a 2021 Grammy award in the Best Reggae Album category.

Temporary Closing of Jackson Hole Airport

From April 11th to June 27th 2022, the Jackson Hole, WY Airport will be temporarily closed for both Airline and General Aviation. Here is a guide on how you can still get to and around Jackson Hole during this closer. Things might get a little quiet around here during the closer times… but that can play to your advantage. Getting here still isn’t as hard as you may think. There are several routes you can go and they are.

For more General, Driving & Travel Information, please visit the Jackson Hole Chamber’s, “JACKSON HOLE TEMPORARY SPRING 2022 AIRPORT CLOSURE TOOLKIT.

Idaho Falls Airport (IDA)

Getting it’s start in 1938, the Idaho Falls Airport is only about 2 hours from Jackson. You’ll find access to Car Rental services as well as Idaho Falls has most of the major airlines on it’s roster giving you many options of travel. Grab an inbound flight to IDA and cruise into town in no time.

Central Wyoming Regional Airport (RIW)

Formerly known as Riverton Regional Airport, from here you are the 2nd furthest driving distance from Jackson Hole. At just under 3 hours, it’s not a bad drive as you head into town. Passing through the Wind River Indian Reservation certainly has it’s advantages from the scenery to the view.

Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport (RKS)

Located in Rock Springs, you won’t be too far from the slopes as this route is your 3rd furthest drive from Jackson Hole. Still not too far, you’re looking at a drive that can be anywhere from 3.5 – 4 hrs with some of the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Taking it all in certainly makes the time fly by.

Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD)

Cody, WY has a rich history going back to, “Buffalo Bill,” Cody. That’s right, as one of the early founding members, Buffalo Bill helped pioneer the region through technology & irrigation. Yellowstone Regional has food and beverage amenities with a restaurant open 7 days a week for most of the year with around 2 flights a day. From here you’re looking at a drive that can be anywhere from 4-5hrs.

Best Breakfast Spots in Jackson Hole

When you’re in Jackson Hole and the snow is falling, there is nothing better than a nice hot breakfast with you’re favorite morning beverage to pair. Here are some of the best breakfast spots in Jackson Hole to give you plenty of energy to get out and get on the slopes.

The Mangy Moose

Breakfast at the Mangy Moose is served from 7am – 11am and they have a wide selection from breakfast taco’s & burrito’s to pancakes and more. If you’re up by the Teton Village, grab a seat at the Mangy Moose to get your day started off right.

The Bunnery | Bakery & Restaurant

Looking for a breakfast spot that’s right there near the town square? You’ve found it with The Bunnery! A local’s and visitor’s favorite that has excellent juices, coffee’s, tea’s and even some breakfast items served all day. For a great pick-me-up, start your day at The Bunnery Bakery & Restaurant.

Picnic

If you’re a late riser then Picnic has got you covered. Serving breakfast from 7am until 3pm, they have something for just about everyone. Definitely an OTG (On-The-Go) spot, you’ll find menu items from Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Toast to Biscuits & Burrito’s to their Savory Sunrise Bowl.

Whistling Grizzly

Be ready to be full when you eat at the Whistling Grizzly. They have some excellent menu items that would fill up just about any pioneer of the mountain. From their Cowboy Plate to their Buttermilk Pancakes, you’re sure to find more than just classic breakfasts here. They serve breakfast 7 days a week from 7am – 11am.

Pearl Street Bagels

Another absolutely excellent choice for OTG, Pearl Street has bagels being made all day long and chances are, when you’re there, their is a fresh batch coming out of the oven while you order. What’s better than a hot and delicious bagel made you’re way with a hot and delicious cup of coffee or tea. Head over to their website and visit their menu to see all of their yummy bagel choices.

Top 5 Runs of Jackson Hole

Winter sports enthusiasts love adrenaline and adventure. Jackson Hole, WY is overflowing with exciting things to do from snowmobiling to cross-country skiing to getting out and experiencing powder in the back country. Here are the top 5 runs here in Jackson hole in case you wanted to start with the good stuff first.

1. Box Car – Casper Bowl

Casper Bowl sits 3300′ above Teton Village and is a great run to test your skills. Casper has tight chutes, small−airs and fun wide-open powder fields.

2. The Hobacks

The Hobacks are three unique black runs at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.  When winter storms come through, The Hobacks are usually one of the best places for back country powder shredding.

3. Alta Zero

When the snow is nice and thick and the conditions are right, snow patrol will drop the ropes and open up Alta Zero. This run is a classic run here in Jackson and one with great lines and cliff drops. It runs right under the Sublette chair so make it look good.

4. Werner

An absolute classic and a run that has been on the mountain for a very long time. Now, there is a 1500ft race course to get your blood pumping. This course is generally open 7 days a week when it’s open and always a lot of fun for just about any level.

5. Sundance

Sundance follows the route of the gondola all the way down the mountain. You cross several cat tracks on this burner of a run, so look before you catch any air. This is the run that makes you feel like you are competing in the Super G. Go for the gold.