Jackson Hole

Summer out west. Does it get any better for an Alabamian? Warm, little to no humidity, extra hours of sunlight. I’d say that’s as good as it gets.

Our family visited Jackson Hole, Wyoming this summer as first timers. First timers out west in the summer and first timers to Jackson Hole. What a great first impression Jackson Hole makes!

We stayed in Teton Village, the village at the base of the mountain skiers frequent in the winter. The village boasts beautiful views of the mountains, lots of great places to eat, and plenty of kid friendly activities to keep everyone busy. My children enjoyed the bungee trampoline, climbing wall, tram and gondola rides, and the splash pad and playground.

There is a great pizza place (Villaggio Osteria), Mexican place (Casa), and of course, the famous Mangy Moose, which has everything from delicious breakfast to wonderful dinner. My kids favorite place was Corbet’s Cabin, located at the top of the mountain. After a quick ride up the mountain on the tram, we arrived at Corbet’s Cabin, which serves only waffles and toppings. The nutella waffles were the crowd favorite with our crew.

Teton Village Trail Rides was right across from the hotels and the kids enjoyed riding the horses along the trail. They bring the horses in from the pasture each morning around 6:30am and we were invited to watch. It was the most magical experience to see the horses running free with the sun rising behind them!

There is an abundance of hiking in and around Jackson Hole and Teton Village. We chose a Phelps Lake hike. It’s about a mile to the lake and then if you want to hike further, you can go around the lake. Jenny Lake and Taggart Lake also have hiking trails available. You can also drive adjacent to Jenny Lake if you are just looking for the views.

The Jackson Hole Rodeo is a must! Get there early to take a turn on the mechanical bull and purchase your accessories and concessions. There is a full concession stand, so it’s not necessary to eat beforehand.

Don’t miss the Jackson Hole Shootout! Every evening (except Sundays) from Memorial Day to Labor Day, at 6:00pm, spectators gather at the northeast corner of Jackson’s Town Square to watch actors reenact an old west shootout. And if you’re looking for more western style action, check out the covered wagon dinners. Guests travel by covered wagon (some being chased by Native Americans) to a campsite to enjoy a dinner cooked over open fire!

Snow King Mountain Resort has loads of summer activities as well! Enjoy the cowboy coaster, alpine slide, mini golf, maze, bungee trampoline, ropes course with zip line and so much more!

Jackson Hole also has ATV tours, white water rafting, sunset safaris, and much much more to do!

This was our first summer trip out west, but it will not be our last! Our family will make this a summer tradition! And as my 4 year old says, “Everyone should visit the cowboy mountains!”