For outdoor lovers, the area boasts three world-class ski resorts: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort, and Grand Targhee. The Town Square has arches made of shed antlers from the National Elk Refuge. The National Museum of Wildlife Art features works by Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Fe. And for culture vultures, you can visit Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone National Park
If you’re planning a visit to Yellowstone National Park, you’ll probably want to start in Jackson, Wyoming. This city lies 60 miles south of the park’s south entrance, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the region. While the weather can be unpredictable, most drivers prefer to approach the park from another location during winter months. There are also several airports near Jackson, including Idaho Falls Airport and the Jackson Hole Municipal Airport.
The region’s countless wildlife species make it an ideal destination for families. The park’s 10,000 hot springs and geysers are spectacular, but the real highlight is the world’s largest active volcano – the Yellowstone Supervolcano, which stretches for over half the park. This natural wonder, which is home to an array of wildlife species, begs to be experienced. Fortunately, there are several ways to see all the action.
If you’re planning a full-day trip to Yellowstone, you can book a Yellowstone vacation package to the park’s southern area, which is the most geographically diverse part of the park. This part of the park is home to a geyser crater, as well as waterfalls, hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. There are also off-road driving tours available for an added adventure.
Thousands of elk roam the area during the colder months, but are surprisingly visible. The elk are given supplemental feeding throughout the winter, so viewing them from a sleigh ride is an excellent way to see them. It’s best to get in early to catch the last views of the Tetons, which lie near the South Entrance to the park. Aside from being a spectacular sight, Jackson Hole is also a great place to enjoy local art.
Three legendary mountain resorts
With over 2,500 acres of terrain and over 4,000 feet of vertical, Jackson Hole, Wyoming has something to offer skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. From beautiful dinner sleigh rides to alpine slides, there’s something for every level of snowboarder. Jackson Hole is also home to a famous cable car called the Aerial Tram, which allows you to ride to the top. Even though it’s often packed on powder days, this town’s three legendary mountain resorts are great for families and groups of all ages.
Located in Teton County, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the most popular ski resort in the lower 48. With its legendary snow and steep terrain, Jackson Hole offers challenging skiing and snowboarding. Located just 12 miles from Jackson Hole Village, this resort offers a unique apres ski experience. From champagne poppers at the top of the mountain to dives from a century ago, Jackson Hole has it all.
The Jackson Hole Ski Resort, located in Teton Village, Wyoming, offers steep terrain perfect for any level of snowboarder. The resort’s two mountain peaks are known for steep runs and over 2,500 acres of in-bounds terrain. It is served by 14 lifts, and offers expert and intermediate skiing. Off-piste access to thousands of miles of trails is available. Jackson Hole is consistently blessed with deep snow, so snowboarders can be sure they will always have fresh tracks on the slopes.
After-skiing is one of the best things to do in Jackson Hole. While the town is renowned for its sleigh rides and gondola rides, there are also plenty of other activities to do during your visit. Visitors can even try out heli-skiing and cat-skiing. The town also offers a range of unique gift shops, mountain sportswear, and hiking trails.
Guided fly fishing float trips
The Jackson Hole area is known for its world-class fly fishing. The Snake River runs in the Grand Teton National Park and boasts legendary hot spots for fly fishing. There are a number of guide services offering float trips on the river for the entire family. Whether you are an experienced angler or looking for a family trip, the Wandering Angler can help you get the best catch possible.
Regardless of your experience level, guided fly fishing float trips in Jackson Hole will help you catch more fish. If you’ve never fished before, this is the perfect way to learn how to fish in the region. Expert and beginner anglers alike are welcome on the lake. There are also plenty of opportunities for flies-tying and rod-building classes to keep your skills sharp.
While the Jackson Hole valley can be warm during the summer months, there is no need to wear flip-flops and a t-shirt. Wading boots and polarized sunglasses are essential for wading in the streams of Wyoming. Sunscreen lotion and chapstick are also essential. A graphite fly rod is usually sufficient for catching trout. Different times of the year call for specific fly patterns. When booking a guided fly fishing float trip in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, be sure to ask your local guide for advice.
A fishing guide is vital for your trip, as they spend hundreds of days on the water. They are also capable of teaching you how to cast the fly or reel in the river. When and where to fish are the biggest decisions when fly fishing float trips. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best spots and give you all the information you need to make the best choices. The decision-making process is often made easier if you have a professional guide.
Historic hangouts
One of the most historic hangouts in the region was the Frontier Saloon, a small pub with a tolerant dress code that welcomes women. It was also a hangout for dam workers in nearby Moran. The Star Valley Saloon is also legendary, although today it is little more than a memory. In its heyday, it was easy to find and a perfect place for a beer or two.
The Mangy Moose Saloon showcases the best of the town with its eclectic feel, great food, and affordable prices. It has been a local favorite since 1967. Afterwards, head over to The Handle Bar for some American pub fare and whiskeys. A perfect place for revelers, The Handle Bar offers a smorgasbord of whiskeys and beer to wash it all down.
The Deck has the best views in town. It also has the best happy hour. You can ride up the mountain for free and then sip a beer on the heated patio. You can also sample some local brews and cocktail creations from local mixologists. Jackson hosts many events throughout the year, from live music in Teton Village to local art fairs downtown. The town square is also home to several bars and restaurants.
There are several historic hangouts in Jackson Hole. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, on the Town Square, is a local icon, with its signature knobby pine decor. It was also the first bar in the state to get a liquor license following the repeal of Prohibition. A trip to the bar is an unforgettable experience. Its name is synonymous with the town’s history. The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar features many historic memorabilia.
Shopping
While you’re in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, you’ll want to take advantage of the town’s shopping opportunities. While the town’s mountain-themed shops sell everything from snowboarding gear to hats, you’ll find that souvenir shopping is also a popular pastime here. The town’s downtown shopping district is full of high-quality shops that carry western wear and high-quality leather goods. Here, you’ll find the perfect gift for a friend or family member.
If you’re looking for unique gifts and collectibles, head to Belle Cose. You’ll find everything you need for entertaining, from dinnerware to gifts to kitchen accessories. Christmas items are particularly impressive, and you’ll find some impressive holiday decorations and table settings here, too. After shopping, head to local eatery Provisions for an eclectic meal and visit Min Wilson for a unique Jackson Hole souvenir.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Town Square, a pedestrian-friendly location located at the intersection of Cache and Broadway. There, you’ll find a variety of locally owned shops, as well as major retail stores. If you’d rather purchase an item from a larger outlet, you can also browse the outdoor stores in downtown Jackson. You can also pick up a souvenir or two that reflect your experience in the area.
After your trip, don’t forget to visit the Rockefeller Preserve Center to learn more about the area’s wildlife. The museum offers exhibits of paintings and other works from the region, and it focuses on the vision of John D. Rockefeller, who founded the town. It’s a great way to discover the unique nature of the town. While you’re there, you can take a boat tour of Jenny Lake.
As a state, North Carolina has something to offer everyone, from beaches to mountains. Located between Tennessee, South Carolina, and West Virginia, it is a mixture of the two. One end of the state borders Philadelphia, while the other ends line up with Lansing, Michigan. There are plenty of places to hike in North Carolina, but where should you start? Here are some places to check out.
Morrow Mountain
Located near Lake Tillery and the Yadkin / Pee Dee River, Morrow Mountain State Park is a great destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. The park is perfect for families or groups of all sizes, and has many amenities, including a swimming pool, picnic areas, and RV or tent camping. Listed below are some of the best places to visit in the area.
There is a trail from the parking lot up to the top of the mountain, which is shared by vehicles. From the summit, you can see the park’s parking lot, and step over a barrier to begin the descent. Another popular hiking area in the park is Fall Mountain Trail. The loop trail begins near the Overlook Picnic Area, and climbs the mountain in a circular fashion.
One trail in particular is family-friendly. The Quarry Trail winds through the quarry area, where you’ll come across a nice overlook area of the Uwharrie River, which later changes its name to Pee Dee River. From here, you can follow the trail inland, where you’ll discover Morrow Mountain State Park. Its many trails intersect with equestrian trails, which makes it an ideal destination for families.
If you’re looking for an easy hike that takes in some beautiful scenery, Morrow Mountain is worth the effort. This mountain is part of the Uwharrie Mountains, which stretch from Randolph County to Montgomery County. It was once a high coastal mountain range that rose over twenty thousand feet above sea level. However, erosion has reduced the mountain to a series of high hills. The highest peak on Morrow Mountain is 936 feet high.
Located in central North Carolina, Morrow Mountain has a peak of 936 feet and the state’s largest prehistoric quarry. Its state park has over 15 miles of hiking trails and other activities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can also go horseback riding, fishing, and camping in the area. Fall Mountain is a moderate trail that crosses two of the mountain’s highest peaks. There are restrooms and picnic tables at the park, as well as a state park pass, if you’re a member.
Lineville Gorge Wilderness
The Linville Gorge Wilderness is the third largest wilderness area in the state and one of only two gorges in the Southern United States. The Linville Gorge Wilderness is maintained by the United States Forest Service and comprises 11,786 acres around the Linville River. It is situated inside the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors can expect to find an array of scenic vistas, including waterfalls and soaring cliffs.
Linville Gorge offers many opportunities for recreational activities, including hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. There are even primitive backcountry campsites available in the area. Visitors are encouraged to leave no trace and to pick up trash. There are plenty of things to do in Linville Gorge, including hiking the waterfalls. But make sure you pack water and snacks. In case you get thirsty, you can try the delicious brews at the Chestoa View, a popular spot for backpackers.
The Linville River is regularly stocked with trout and other fish by NC State hatcheries, which makes fishing easier and more exciting. A valid fishing license is required to fish in the river. You can purchase a fishing license at the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Hunting is rare in the gorge, but it is allowed during authorized hunting seasons. The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area offers primitive camping, which is free to use.
Linville Gorge is home to an impressive array of plant life and animals. There are five endangered plant species and several varieties of rhododendron. The forests also contain numerous orchids and brown trout. Hunting, fishing, and camping are all legal in the Linville Gorge Wilderness. In addition to flora and fauna, the Linville Gorge is also home to turkeys.
To experience the area’s wildlife, hikers can follow the Tablerock Summit Trail. This trail climbs 3,680 feet to a lookout at the summit. From there, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. After completing this hike, they can then descend 1,000 feet to the Spence Ridge. There, they can view the gorge from a viewpoint.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
For anyone interested in nature walks, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary, NC, is a great place to explore. This 140-acre preserve is a joint project of the North Carolina state park system and the Town of Cary. Hikers can expect to find a variety of flora and fauna, as well as abundant birdlife and wildlife.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve has trails, boardwalks, educational centers, and more. If you’re looking for a family hiking spot, check out the children’s nature trail and scavenger hunt posted there. This preserve is also perfect for people with dogs, as it provides a water fountain and a water bottle refill station. There are also restrooms and benches throughout the preserve for those who don’t feel like hiking for hours.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, located southwest of Raleigh, NC, is a 140-acre park that features trails that range from short to challenging. The Swift Creek and Chestnut Oak trails are the most popular combination, offering views of the park’s namesake bluffs. Both trails offer plenty of shade from the sun. The trails are great for families, and you can get a great workout while you’re hiking.
Hemlock Bluffs is also an important location for wildlife. It is home to rare species of flora, such as Galax trees and Eastern Hemlock trees. The area also provides a valuable refuge for many mammals and insects, and it serves as an important corridor for migrant birds. The trails can be challenging, but the view is well worth the effort.
You can choose from three loop trails at Hemlock Bluffs, which are both approximately 1.5 miles long. The Chestnut Oak Loop is the least popular, but is 1.2 miles long. Swift Creek Loop features scenic overlooks and boardwalks. The Chestnut Oak Loop is the easiest to navigate and has the fewest mosquitoes. It is best for families with children, as it’s less crowded.
Grandfather Mountain
A classic hiking destination in western North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain offers panoramic views and an unparalleled ecological diversity. At an elevation of 5,945 feet, it’s one of the most iconic peaks in the entire region. Early pioneers recognized the face of an old man carved into the rock face of the mountain. You can experience this same awe and wonder while hiking Grandfather Mountain. After completing the trail, you can take in the view of the viaduct, as well as mountain ranges.
There are 11 hiking trails in the area, ranging from gentle strolls to steep treks through rugged cliffs. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or an amateur, Grandfather Mountain is sure to please. The park features a mile-high swinging bridge, as well as wildlife habitats and nature museums. You can also get a glimpse of the mountain’s majestic waterfalls from the top of MacRae Peak, the highest point on Grandfather Mountain.
The newest state park in North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain State Park, is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge. It stretches over 2456 acres of backcountry. Visitors can backpack and hike through the park’s ridgeline, and the park doesn’t close for daily activities. However, weather conditions can prevent hikers from hiking the mountain. For more information, see the park website.
If you’re an adventure-seeker, you can take advantage of the 11 miles of trails that make up the Grandfather Mountain State Park. These trails wind through forests and gentle ridges, and even offer scenic views. The Grandfather Trail is a great option for experienced hikers as it involves a series of ladders and cables to cross rocky outcrops. You can also hike to Calloway Peak and return via the Underwood Trail. The Calloway Trail requires the use of ladders and cables, so plan your trip accordingly. Be sure to pack proper clothing and bring adequate equipment for your hike.
For those looking for a more unique hiking experience, Grandfather Mountain offers plenty of options for the entire family. There are numerous trails, including the Swinginging Bridge, and a range of backcountry hiking options. Access to the backcountry trails is free, but you have to pay to visit the museum and other attractions. Alternatively, you can opt for the free parkway. In any case, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge.
