Susan Serven

When I first heard we were going to be staying at a “lodge” in Jackson Hole Wyoming all I could think of was a cabin in the room with bunk beds (yes, actually, I was very naïve).

But our stay at the Snake River Lodge and Spa in Teton Village, Wyoming was one of the most unique ever. The hotel is warm, woodsy, with a definite upscale western theme (think antler chandeliers and craggy ranchers’ homesteads) while offering the top in food and amenities.

There are other hotels that are incredible, as well, such as The Wort Hotel and Old Faithful Lodge.You’ll probably have at least one stop since right now there are no direct flights to the Jackson Hole airport (and it’s a long drive from other airports) but believe me, it’s worth it.

The Jackson Hole airport itself is small, charming, with spectacular views of the Teton Mountains.Interesting to note that as of April 2025, Jackson Hole is the world's first airport to receive DarkSky International certification as a Dark Sky Place.

Their starry skies are incredible.There’s so much to do in Jackson Hole depending on the time of year you go. Of course, during winter the skiing and all other winter sports are primary.

We went in early August, after a hearty breakfast the first day made it to Jenny Lake (gorgeous) and visited the town of Jackson, lots of fun restaurants and shopping.  You’ll know you’re there by the four arches, made from naturally shed antlers, which welcome visitors at each corner of the town's central square.

Our next day was a visit to Yellowstone National Park, a nearly 3,500-sq.-mile wilderness recreation area on top of a volcanic hot spot. Mostly in Wyoming, the park spreads into parts of Montana and Idaho too. Yellowstone features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs and gushing geysers, including its most famous, Old Faithful. It's also home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk and antelope.

And yes, you do see bison and bears roaming on the side of the streets (they’re given precedence always, we had our return drive back rerouted late at night because a mama bear was wandering with her cubs, true story. I was very happy to see it).

And, weather permitting, you may be able to book a whitewater rafting trip down the Snake River (we did, and although jumping over the side for a swim was encouraged, only two of us tried that and I was not one of them).

One of the best things we did in Jackson was to take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. This beautiful tour took us over our hotel and Grand Teton National Park. You’ll see ranchland and herds of moose and deer and maybe a bald eagle or two. We had a herd of cattle literally look up and follow us – as a HERD – from place to place (until a fence stopped their from traveling with us any farther).

Just an amazing trip to a gorgeous part of the country.