5 out-of-the-box winter activities to try in Jackson Hole
Leaving the humdrum behind doesn’t mean risking your life
Winter/Spring 23-24
Written By: Melissa Thomasma | Images: Courtesy Jackson Hole Shooting Experience, Mark Gocke and Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris
When we’re surrounded by world-class athletes, it’s easy to think that pushing boundaries equates to some adrenaline-fueled feat of record-shattering daring. First descents of previously unskied mountain ridges, expeditions traversing swaths of untamed wild in soul-crushing blizzard conditions — these achievements snag headlines along with our imaginations. It’s true; they make for thrilling tales.
But it doesn’t mean the rest of us — whether visitors to Jackson Hole, lifelong residents, or anything in between — are doomed to a winter of the same well-trodden tracks. There are plenty of exciting and creative ways to ditch your same old snowy activities and try something new. Who knows what you’ll discover?
Ice Fishing Under the Tetons
At its deepest point, Jackson Lake reaches 438 feet — more than sufficient to keep a healthy population of cutthroat and lake trout thriving year-round. If you’re craving a fresh trout dinner, or just want to explore who (or what) might be swimming around under the frozen surface, ice fishing awaits. There aren’t any guides who can legally take you on an ice fishing expedition, so you’ll need to team up with an experienced local, or get geared up yourself.
A visit to the iconic Stone Drug is a great start; the locally owned establishment offers a full complement of the tackle that your expedition will require, and often the staff in the sporting section will have great tips and suggestions. (Don’t forget to grab your fishing license while you’re there!) Unlike other lakes, since Jackson Lake is located inside Grand Teton National Park, you can’t put up any kind of permanent shanty, but you’re allowed to use pop-up style shelters.
Once you’re out there, be sure to look up from your hole in the ice once in a while — the view is spectacular!
Howl at the Moon
It’s easy to appreciate the beauty of a clear, sunny winter day as you’re traversing the sparkling snowscape of Grand Teton National Park — but have you considered the magic of moonlight for a cross-country ski or snowshoe? Aim for a night when the moon is nearly full (or full) and there aren’t clouds in the forecast. It’s also ideal to pick a path that’s not deep in the woods, as shadows can obscure potential hazards.
Following one of the trails that begin at the Bradley-Taggart parking lot is generally a good bet, as is the Shadow Mountain trailhead; both of these locations will give you plenty of wide-open space to enjoy the brightness of the moon and stars shimmering off the diamond crust of the snow as well as showcase some stunning mountain vistas. Just be sure to let someone know where you’re headed and what time you plan to be back, like any other wild adventure.
Get Cooking, Western Style
Dare yourself to turn off “Top Chef” and become one! Join the expert team of chefs from Three Peaks Catering for a culinary experience that will sharpen your skills and boost your confidence. Group classes require a minimum of four people — eight if you’d like the chef to come to you — so plan ahead if you need to round up a few friends.
Based on your interests and requests, a chef will tailor a class that takes you from ingredients to polished final dish, offering tips and support along the way. Choose from menus like the “Mountain Western,” which includes a personalized three-course spread with trout, buffalo and elk, the “Along the Snake River,” showcasing a four-course spread with wild boar, elk, buffalo and salmon, or saddle up for the “Western Basics,” that will walk you through chopping, sauteing, grilling, marinades and rubs.
Make your reservation by calling (208) 354-9463 or online at threepeakscatering.com. Just don’t blame us if your friends expect you to start hosting all the dinner parties.
Under the watchful guidance of a world-class shooting instructor, you’ll get to try out firearms from a collection of over 50 guns and up to 300 rounds of ammunition. From cowboy-action revolvers and semi-automatic handguns to precision long-range rifles and historical battle rifles, you’ll get the chance to take aim at targets near and far. Who knows? Maybe your inner gunslinger is just waiting for the chance to fire.
Schedule your experience (for up to 12 guests) by calling (307) 690-7921 or book online at shootinjh.com.
Get Snapping Like a Pro
We’ve all been there: some unexpected and breathtaking encounter with wildlife has you scrambling for your cell phone, but when you try and show off the pictures you got, they’re just, well, meh. Sign up for a Grand Teton Photography Experience with Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris and learn how to capture images that truly do your adventures justice.
The day-long adventure is led by a professional photographer with intimate knowledge of the Grand Teton area and its inhabitants. They’ll give you plenty of tips, tricks and insights into how to use your photography gear to maximize the impact of your images. Whether you’re new to photography or a seasoned shooter, your guide will help enhance your confidence in the field.
Reserve your photo safari by calling (307) 690- 6402 or visit jacksonholewildlifesafaris.com for more info. Because really, don’t your walls deserve some stunning photography featuring our wildest neighbors?
