72 Hours in Jackson Hole

There are a lot of iconic American mountain towns, but Jackson Hole is having a serious moment. With the majestic Teton Mountain Range as your dare-to-look-away backdrop and a cowboy culture that actually still feels authentic, there are many reasons why urbanites are flocking to this majestic mountain haven. Here’s how to get in all the action.

DAY 1

Morning

Though not for the faint of heart, adventurists can get the lay of the land via a tandem paragliding flight over the heart of Jackson. (Like we said — make it count.) You’ll see craggy peaks, a birds’-eye view of downtown’s storied streets, and, if you’re lucky, a herd of elk.

Afternoon

If there’s one western town to claim bragging rights atop a horse, it’s Jackson Hole. Explore the backcountry near the Insta-worthy Grand Teton on a private horseback riding excursion and enjoy a gourmet lunch amidst fields of wildflowers.

Evening

For your first night on the town, check out the Snake River Grill, a Jackson institution for 25+ years. (Their steak tartare pizza is famous in its own right.) After dinner, it's cocktail time at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, located along one of Jackson’s main drags. Step through the saloon-style doors, sidle up to an antique bar atop authentic saddle seats and take in town’s cowboy lore.

DAY 2

Morning

After a cup of joe at Cowboy Coffee Co., it’s off to the Jackson Hole Farmers Market, held Saturdays (through September 24, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.). You’ll find seasonal produce, artisanal meats and cheeses, organic juice and kombucha, and more. Afterward, take a relaxing yoga class at Teton Yoga Shala, located at the base of the Teton Mountain Range.

Afternoon

No power trip is complete without a little R&R, and the Amangani Resort and Spa is the perfect place to unplug and reboot. The signature, three-hour Nourishing Journey begins with a massage ritual incorporating the Ayurvedic Marma Points Therapy, a jade-powder body polish and wrap, and a hydrating facial to combat altitude.

Evening

Have your Concierge secure a table at the hip Glorietta, an Italian outpost at the Anvil Hotel. Expect a buzzy ambiance and mouth-watering dishes by the talented Chef Mac Jarvis (who rose to acclaim at David Chang’s Las Vegas Momofuku), plus an inspired cocktail menu created by New York’s Death and Co.

DAY 3

Morning

When visiting in summer and fall, whitewater rafting or a scenic float trip on the storied Snake River beckons. Whether in search of a mellow ride with kids or a rowdy tackle of the famous Lunch Counter or Big Kahuna rapids, boating the scenic canyons is unforgettable.

Afternoon

Tee time is all the more fun at altitude, considering your golf ball flies farther over scenic greens. The Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club is tops — an 18-hole course first purchased by Laurance Rockefeller and re-designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Next up, hit the shops. Just where to? JD High Country Outfitters is stocked with everything you could ever need in the mountains. In the market for culinary (and/or bubbly) treats? Shop for gourmet specialties and rare vintages at Bin 22, which serves Spanish tapas, too.  

Evening

Tuck into the casual and family-friendly Sidewinders Tavern, known for comfort food like "S"idewinder pretzels and wings. Alternatively, indulge in a private chef-prepared meal and S’mores while you and your special crew watch the sun dip beneath Jackson’s rugged peaks.