Not just a ski town—
Jackson: An All Season Mountain Town
To follow up on my most recent post regarding Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s #1 ranking by Skier Magazine, I thought I would touch on an article recently published by Forbes.com recounting the ways in which The Four Seasons Resort in Jackson Hole outshines other hotels and resorts in ski towns. What I found most interesting (and true!) is that a key distinguishing factor for Jackson is its status as more than a “ski” town. Rather, it holds a legacy as a year-round, “mountain” town. For Jackson, the winter time appeal clearly speaks for itself— one need just look to our recent rankings for proof. However, unlike other ski towns, Jackson Hole enchants year-round.
Because of Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is even busier in summer than winter– it hasn’t had to remake itself as a summer destination as the draw is already in place. Moreover, the array of activities is more expansive in summer– from listening to live music in an outdoor park to climbing the Grand Teton, summertime in Jackson is suited for all interests and activity levels.
Furthermore, visitors are catching on to the appeal of the so-called “off seasons” or “shoulder seasons” in Jackson. These seasons, which in fall run from mid-September through November, and in spring from early April through May, can be some of the best times of year to be in Jackson. Often the weather is still beautiful, but the crowds are significantly less. Ongoing event s at the various galleries and cultural centers offer entertainment, while “local” or “off season” specials make for fabulous deals at restaurants and retail stores throughout town. For the adventurer, these are great times of year to go explore outside the confines of the ski resort or golf courses. For instance, every April before reopening after its winter closure, the stretch of road from Taggart and Bradley Lakes to Colter Bay is completely closed to vehicles, making it a perfect time to go for a walk, run or bike ride without worrying about traffic.
Whether you enjoy skiing powder at North America’s top-ranked resort, playing golf at one of several nationally and internationally acclaimed courses, hiking the Cathedral Traverse or perusing the galleries and restaurants around the town itself, Jackson Hole is your place. There is something for everyone during any time of year which truly makes it stand out amongst other ski towns. It is no wonder, then, why more and more people are looking for ways to call it home!
