Animal lovers visiting the charming town of Jackson are in for a delightful treat at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Serving as a rich source of information on North American wildlife, this fascinating museum is a premier destination in the town. The installations here are creative and promise to captivate every visitor who cherishes life-like encounters with wild beasts. After exploring the many exhibits, visitors can stop by the Rising Sage Café for a hearty and delicious meal. Parts of the museum can also be rented for wedding receptions, private parties, and conferences. The sprawling terrace of the museum is a prime feature of the venue, offering views of a beautiful sun setting into the Wyoming landscapes.
The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, located in Grand Teton National Park, is a 1,106-acre natural sanctuary that is named in honor of Laurance S. Rockefeller, a passionate advocate for preserving America's natural landscapes. This one-of-a-kind, picturesque destination presents you with an opportunity to connect with nature. Home to a vast network of scenic trails that lead to Phelps Lake, the preserve is a delightful haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. A drive down the ethereal Moose-Wilson Road offers a glimpse of the abundant wildlife that inhabits these lands, while a visit to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Center offers insights about the history and mission of the preserve. When in town, one must visit this mesmerizing nature preserve.
Established for the protection and preservation of elk in the country, the National Elk Refuge is a large sanctuary. The town of Jackson annually witnesses the migration of elk in large numbers. With that in mind, this sprawling refuge was established as a natural habitat for the visiting herds. This makes it a photographer's dream. Whether capturing elk herds, bison grazing, or breathtaking landscapes, photographers of all skill levels will find endless opportunities for stunning shots. Set amidst wetlands, mountains, and lush greenery, this wildlife refuge offers spectacular sights, particularly during snow-clad winters. Adding to the enthralling experience here are the sleigh tours through chilly winds and welcoming herds of elks.
Jackson Hole Rodeo is a great place to experience Wyoming's western heritage on the back of a horse and a rope at your side. Watch cowboys and cowgirls compete for the grand prize as the sun sets over the Teton Range. This rodeo customarily takes place at the Teton County Fairgrounds on Wednesday and Saturday evenings from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Jackson Hole Rodeo presents a great opportunity for families and kids looking forward to experiencing a truly authentic western event.
Antelope Flats in Wyoming is a beautiful, scenic road you come across while passing The Grand Teton National Park. It was formed to conserve and protect the natural habitat and the migration routes of various animal species living in the park. Driving along the road, you get a spectacular view of the mountain and plains, it is relatively easy to spot animals in the wild and it also gives you a taste of the Wild Old West with frontier styled houses, truly a must visit when in the area.
The Elk Antler Arches have become an iconic symbol of Jackson Hole and are often a focal point for anyone who is exploring the town. The fascinating attraction is the elk antler arches. Spectacular and intriguing, the arches are made using thousands of elk antlers. Tourists and locals gather around the arches, taking photos and enjoying the unique aesthetic they bring to the town square. The antlers are sourced from the National Elk Refuge, where numerous migratory elk make an appearance during the winter. In the spring months, the elks shed their antlers, which make their way to the arches. Rebuilt every few years, the arches are famous as backdrops for photos. When in town, do head to the Town Square to witness all of the arches in their mesmerizing glory.
Sprawled across 310,000 acres (130,000 hectares) of incomparable scenery and stunning alpine vistas, the Grand Teton National Park is a shining example of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Vertical hordes of native coniferous trees flood the sides of the majestic Teton Range in a feeble attempt to contain its unfettered wilderness. At the very bottom, the rugged terrain of the valley floor is willfully carpeted in an overgrown thicket of sagebrush, where gleaming lakes drink in waters supplied by mountain glaciers and continue their merry flow across the soul-stirring landscape. It is here that the park's Snake River slices through the park, winding its way through colored fields to meet its terminal in Idaho. Up above, the Grand, Middle and South Tetons unite in a passion of solidarity that dominates the Rockies. They are encircled by the smaller, yet equally magnificent alpine forms of Mount Owen, Mount Moran, and the Teewinot Mountain. A spectacular set of flora and fauna thrives in the versatile ecosystem of this park, from nearly 1000 species of vascular plants to nearly 61 species of mammals. With a rich tapestry of trails that meander through the depths of this park, and a uniquely shaped, diverse ecosystem, the Grand Teton National Park ranks among one of the top choices for back-country adventures.
Bridger-Teton National Forest is the second largest National Forest in the United States outside of Alaska. Over three million acres of forest provides all the wonder a nature enthusiast could ask, with thousands of miles of trails, lakes, mountains and countless flora and fauna to discover. Visit the forest to spend a fun-filled day with your family as you explore its scenic landscape replete with mature groves of lodgepole pine, Engelmann spruce, and Douglas fir, and many beautiful lakes. Bridger-Teton National Forest is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for activities like biking, camping, water sports, fishing, and winter sports.
The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center (CTDVC) is a popular attraction located in Grand Teton National Park. The center is named after the late Craig Thomas, a senator who championed conservation efforts in the region. Visitors can stop by the center to learn about the park's history, geology, flora, and fauna through interactive exhibits, displays, and videos. The center also offers ranger-led programs, hikes, and talks on various topics related to the park. Apart from learning about the park's natural and cultural history, it is also a great place to plan your visit. The knowledgeable staff can provide information on the best hikes, scenic drives, and activities in the park, as well as suggestions on where to stay and eat.
The Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum preserves and protects the eventful history of the people and the region of Jackson Hole. Built in 1958, the museum is home to several artifacts. Exhibits explore a wide range of topics, including the area's Native American heritage, the fur trade era, ranching and homesteading, and the evolution of Jackson as a vibrant mountain town. Serving as a source of detailed and accurate information, the museum attracts archeologists, researchers, and history buffs alike. The interactive displays here trace the rich past of the town and the communities that inhabited these lands, chronicling their journey from then to now. When planning a sojourn in the valley or the town of Jackson, one must add visiting the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum to their itinerary.