JACKSON, WY: SMALL TOWN VIBE, BIG MOUNTAIN SKIING
The remoteness of this small western town on the southern border of Yellowstone National Park is one of the key ingredients to the allure. Mother Nature is the headliner, of course, but being far from major metropolitan areas also has its advantages. The town is quaint and remains authentic with wooden sidewalks, a small central square, and a strong collection of boutiques and restaurants to maintain a vibrant buzz year round. We went for the legendary skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, renowned for its predominant black diamond steeps, chutes, and glades. The mountain and Old Man Winter delivered in epic fashion.
SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
A modern build that fits right into this historic western town
Hotel Jackson is a 5-star boutique property with a modern mountain vibe on a quiet side street in downtown Jackson. Walk to all the shops, bars, and restaurants or stay on property at the full bar and vegan-friendly Lebanese restaurant, FIGS. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle three times daily to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, an easy 20 minute drive made even better with a front and center drop zone to avoid the parking lot scrum. This one is a gem!
Amangani commands stunning views of the Teton range and Snake River Valley from its quiet hilltop
When you want to have access to it all but still be worlds away, Amangani is the answer. Just 5 minutes above the town square but in a class all by itself, this property delivers an uberluxury experience. Spacious, forward-designed rooms, stunning views, and gorgeous common spaces demonstrate that no expense has been spared. With only 40 rooms/suites, reservations are a challenge but the top shelf service and amenities are a just reward for perseverance. It is no wonder Aman guests around the world become devotees of this most exclusive hotel brand! #amanjunkies.
Terra Bar
Hotel Terra is a slopeside hotel in Teton Village at the base of the ski resort. It has a hip lifestyle vibe, 130 rooms, two hot tubs overlooking the small village, and an Italian restaurant. Out the back is a small outdoor ice rink, a few shops, and the legendary Mangy Moose pub serving up live music for the cool set. Lift access is an easy 1 minute walk.
Lobby at Teton Mountain Lodge
The sister property next door is Teton Mountain Lodge. The vibe is rustic mountain with modern flourishes and the accommodations are perfect for families. There is an indoor pool and spa on property as well as a restaurant serving foods of the American West. In the summer, the al fresco patio is the place to be.
The Four Seasons overlooks it all at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
The Four Seasons Jackson Hole is the chip of the bag at Teton Village. It holds court at the base area with ski in/out access to several lifts and gondolas. The Handle Bar casual dining restaurant serves up a legendary bar menu and provides the upbeat apres scene that draws them in. Tuck away to the other restaurants on property for a quieter experience: Ascent for pan-Asian cuisine, the Moet igloo, or Westside for classic western fare. Base Camp will store your skis and warm your boots for the morning; no muss, no fuss. The Four Seasons service is on point and the rooms are perfectly maintained with no signs of the wear and tear typical at ski properties everywhere.
Challenging terrain and lots of it will appeal to advanced skiers but the plethora of other activities will ensure non-skiers have fun too!
how to get there
The Jackson airport is blessedly small. We dropped our rental car, checked our bags, and were through security in less than 15 minutes. There are direct flights from many airports around the country; our flight on Alaska Airlines from Seattle was 90 minutes easy. It is about 15min to downtown Jackson or 30min to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. If you are just coming for a winter ski and you stay at one of these hotels, car rental is unnecessary; in the summer, however, accessing the Yellowstone Park is easier with your own wheels. Looking for a wonderful vacation with none of the logistical nightmares? We plan trips that will give you back your precious leisure time.