A Scouted Ski Getaway to Jackson Hole
Once a sleepy mountain town for avid skiers and outdoorsmen, Jackson Hole has matured into a chic, year-round destination. All without losing its quintessential cowboy charm… It’s called the Last of the Old West for a reason. And while Jackson Hole boasts world-class dining, shopping, and lodging, its mountains still offer the same exhilarating runs and outdoor adventure that first drew visitors.
Fresh off this year’s trip to the Last of the Old West — it’s an annual tradition — we’ve prepared a short-but-sweet skiers guide to Jackson Hole. Not one to strap wood to your feet and fly down a mountain? We’ve included a few additional highlights — think food, shopping, and western flair — for the non-skiers in your group.
WHERE TO STAY
Anvil (215 N Cache Street, Jackson, WY) Located in a former hundred-year-old blacksmith’s shop, the appropriately named Anvil Hotel is just off the town square. It’s for the chic ski bum who wants walkability, a great food & beverage program (see Glorietta, below), and a cute mercantile.
Abode Luxury Rentals is a boutique short term rental agency scouted by The Scout Guide Jackson Hole for its luxury rental portfolio. Discerning travelers will enjoy the top-notch amenities, design-centric homes, and concierge services for a one-of-a-kind, intimate stay.
Caldera House (3275 Village Drive, Teton Village, WY) At just eight suites, Caldera House is an intimate lodging option for the design-minded traveler with a penchant for the finer things. Think marble and brass-clad alpine charm. On Teton Mountain and adjacent to Jackson’s tram, Caldera also boasts a clutch location in addition to its wealth of comfort and superb hospitality.
Cloudveil (112 Center Street, Jackson, WY) A new player on Jackson Hole’s lodging scene, it’s a top selection for park lovers. Guest rooms are spacious and sprinkled with thoughtful Wyoming flair, and, if you splurge, a private fireplace. Cloudveil also provides gear concierge and rentals, ski valet, and a ski chalet at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
WHERE TO DRINK & DINE
Glorietta (242 Glenwood Street, Jackson, WY) In addition to a stunning culinary homage to Italy, Glorietta serves up the coziest vibes. Come hungry, order liberally, and definitely sample at least one of the homemade pastas. Pro Tip: Wine is sold at retail, so take home a bottle (or two) if you find something you like.
Kampai (175 Center Street, Jackson, WY) Chef Chris Massad, of San Francisco’s Akiko’s, Pabu and Nobu, brings his take on Japanese cuisine to Wyoming. Expect elevated versions of new and familiar sushi preparations with top-tier service.
Snake River Grill (4 E Broadway Ave, Jackson, WY) Thirty years ago, the Town Center favorite, Snake River Grill, put Jackson fine dining on the map. Order a steak and double down on the onion rings.
Teton Tiger (165 Center Street, Jackson, WY) Located right next to Kemo Sabe (more on them later), Teton Tiger is a stalwart of Jackson Hole. The Pan-Asian fare delights and the atmosphere is infectious.
SKI ESSENTIALS
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (3395 Cody Lane, Teton Village, WY) Voted the No. 1 Ski Resort in North America by Forbes magazine eight years in a row, Jackson Hole Ski Resort is generally considered the closest thing to a European ski experience this side of the Atlantic. Avid skiers will enjoy the longest continuous vertical rise of any ski destination (4,139 feet) and the second longest vertical rise served by a single lift. Speaking of the lift, the bright red Aerial Tram is iconic. Not up for challenging runs? The high-speed Bridger and Sweetwater gondolas offer access to acres of moderate, groomed slopes for the intermediate skier. And, lower down skiing gets simpler, with the Teewinot chairlift providing an excellent, peaceful option for beginners to get the practice they need before exploring further. Visit late November through the first week of April.
Teton Backcountry Rentals (565 N Cache Street, Jackson, WY) While this is a ski getaway guide, it’s worth noting that Teton Backcountry Rentals offers it all. Expect the best gear — from splitboards to alpine touring skis — with a online reservation system and centrally located pick-up and drop-off location that makes it a convenient option for those who prefer to rent.
Corbet’s Cabin (Rendezvous Peak, Teton Village, WY) Fueling up with world-famous gourmet waffles at 10,450 is a pre-ski tradition. Take the tram to Rendezvous Peak and, before hitting the slopes, enjoy made-to-0rder waffles. The locally-owned Corbet’s Cabin serves up four varieties, the “Gateway,” (peanut butter and bacon), “the “Italian” (Nutella and strawberries), the “Englishman” (lemon glaze, powdered sugar and whipped cream), and the “Trad” (brown sugar and butter).
WHERE TO APRÈS
The Handle Bar at the Four Seasons (7680 Granite Loop Road, Teton Village, WY) Come 2:30 (ish), skiers descend upon the Four Season’s Handle Bar, spilling out onto the patio, to unwind from a day on the slopes. Its incredible pub fare and international beer, wine, and cocktail list make it a favorite for the signature ski ritual.
Mangy Moose (3295 Village Drive, Teton Village, WY) Opened in 1967, Mangy Moose is a no-frills hot spot to (pardon the rhyme) get loose. It’s a popular spot (locals know to head for the second floor) with live music, good eats, and un-fussy drinks.
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar (25 N Cache Street, Jackson, WY) Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is a world-famous watering hole serving up every ounce of the western flair you crave — from its saddle bar stools to its honky-tonk tunes. Everyone who’s anyone in the Country music world has taken the stage (think: Willie Nelson to Waylon Jennings) and even when Million Dollar Cowboy Bar isn’t hosting one of the greats, you’ll enjoy two-steppin’ with beer in-hand.
WHERE TO SHOP
Belle Cose (Multiple Locations) Belle Cose got its start in 1994 before most of the shop’s luxe vendors could point to Wyoming (much less Jackson Hole) on a map. Today, the family-owned shop boasts eight storefronts across town (not to mention four more across the U.S.), and each is worth a visit for its hand-curated selection. Expect goods for the well-appointed home, clothing and accessories for the capsule wardrobe, and fine jewelry for the discerning collector. In short, this TSG Jackson Hole scouted boutique is a must-visit.
Kemo Sabe (165 Center Street, Jackson, WY) For the must-have Jackson Hole accessory, Kemo Sabe is the must-visit shop. And while it’s a one-stop shop for all western wear — custom boots to buckles — their luxury, handcrafted and hand-personalized hats are the big draw. Customize a luxury topper with in-store branding (no, the literal branding with a hot iron) and a hat band for an heirloom quality takeaway. Pro Tip: You simply must book a private whiskey tasting and hat party with your group. It’s a blast and truly an unforgettable experience.
WHAT TO DO (BEYOND SKIING)
Granite Hot Springs (Granite Creek Rd, Jackson, WY) Skip the skiing but still hit the snow and head to Granite Hot Springs via snowmobile. The winter season runs from early December until the beginning of April, welcoming a much-needed post-ski soak. Just don’t expect cell service.
National Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride (532 N Cache Street, Jackson WY) Come for the skiing, stay for the sights. And a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge is unbeatable for its stunning vistas and, obviously, wildllife. Come with questions for an interactive experience, the guides are amazing. Tickets are sold out of the white trailer in the visitor center parking lot. Arrive 30 minutes before ride time.
Looking for more recommendations and local favorites? Keep an eye out for The Scout Guide Jackson Hole’s most recent volume and view their directory of scouted businesses here.
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