When we departed Yellowstone National Park for the final time through the south entrance, there was a sense of sadness, as we knew we were leaving one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular masterpieces.
That sadness quickly evaporated when the Grand Teton appeared.
Reaching 4,000 metres into the sky, it is impossible to not feel insignificant in its presence.
We followed Teton Park Road along the base of the Teton Range, passing Jackson Lake, Leigh Lake and Jenny Lake. It was one of the most picturesque commutes I have ever made.
We arrived at Jackson Hole and the destination was just as special as the journey. This town is a blend of Wyoming country and city convenience. The streets are lined with boutiques and saloons.
Even though there are two ski resorts, this is a summer town. One of the best things I noticed about the town and surrounding area were the provided amenities. There are cycle paths, walking paths, dog parks, and playgrounds everywhere. It is so beautiful seeing people active outside.
Jackson Hole is also home to the National Elk Refuge, which protects the habitat and provides a sanctuary for one of the largest elk herds on Earth. It is home to over 7,500 elk each winter. Antlers are a big thing in Jackson Hole.
As much as we loved the town, we spent most of our time outside of Jackson Hole, in the woods of the surrounding mountains.
From the moment we drove through Grand Teton National Park, we knew we would need to return.
We were up early and ready to hike around Jenny Lake. So early in fact, we were the first car at the trailhead. The only problem was, that it was springtime, the same time many of the bear sows bring their cubs down to the lower lands.
We started out but felt quite uncomfortable knowing that we were the only people in the woods.
We found a rock with a view and waited until a few other hikers arrived.
My theory was: more hikers = more noise = less bears.
The waiting wasn’t that hard with this view.
The hike was breathtaking. On one side of the trail is the glass top of Jenny Lake and on the other are the towering, snow-capped Tetons. The spring foliage was in full bloom and created a natural canopy.
We hiked four kilometres to the Hidden Falls and the West Shore boat dock, where we took the boat shuttle across Jenny Lake, back to the trailhead.
We heard about the Granite Hot Springs, which is a manmade pool that is filled with hot water direct from the river. We took the 50-kilometre trip from Jackson Hole with the final 16-kilometres being on a dirt road.
Even if there wasn’t a hot spring at the end of the dirt road, the trip would have still been worth it. We were alone (in the safety of our car), in the middle of nature, with 360 degrees of perfect views.
We arrived at the hot spring as it opened. The outside temperature was around 3 degrees but the water was a toasty 36 degrees. We were there mid-May and were fortunate that we had everything to ourselves.
It gives new meaning to a pool with a view.
The natural beauty of Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole and surrounding areas was something that I know will stay with my family and I for a long time.
It was beautiful watching Andy make nature her playground.
THINGS TO KNOW
- If you head south out of Yellowstone National Park, ensure you turn right onto Teton Park Road and take the scenic route to Jackson Hole. The road is closed November to May depending on the weather.
- Be bear aware when hiking. Carry bear spray or do what we do and wait for other hikers.
- The Lake Jenny boat shuttle takes you across the lake. Hike one way and take the boat back.
- The Granite Hot Spring is open year round but closes two months of the year. Generally the first month of winter and the first month of spring. During winter it is only accessible via snowmobile or dogsled.
Mike Campbell and his wife Inga, along with their daughter Andy have packed, donated or sold everything they own in Australia and hit the road for a year, attempting to housesit their way through North America. You can connect with them and read about their adventures at www.liveimmediately.com
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The views, opinions and positions expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and are meant as travel inspiration only. They do not reflect the opinions of Cover-More Insurance. You should always read the terms available from your travel insurance provider to understand the limits, exclusions and conditions of your policy and to ensure any activities you undertake are covered by your policy.