ELLE Escapes: Jackson Hole
If you want to go skiing or snowboarding, it doesn’t get much better than Jackson Hole. Named after Davey Jackson, an esteemed fur trapper out west, the Wyoming destination is home to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort as well as a lively scene downtown and closer to the base in Teton Village bustling with cowboy energy. (Fun fact: In the 1800s, the term “hole” was used to ID a valley.) Whether you’re hitting the slopes, sampling the local game, or heading to this weekend’s Rendezvous Spring Festival, there’s something for every type of traveler here. Just remember to dress warm and stay hydrated, because the altitude is a very real thing.
What to See
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Widely regarded as one of the toughest mountains in the U.S., Jackson Hole is legendary for its steep pitch and, if you’re lucky, soft powder. Ski daredevils can try their hand at Corbet’s Couloir, a narrow, high-speed run, but not before mustering up the courage with a waffle at the top of the tram. Should you encounter roped-off areas on your way down, as the saying goes: “If you don’t know, don’t go.”
Surefoot
When it comes to custom ski boots, go Surefoot or go home. The company prides itself on its proprietary scanner which creates custom liners and insoles that make historically uncomfortable footwear tolerable. The process of getting the liner filled is a sensation in and of itself—best described as mice crawling around your feet, but in a good way.
Teton Tour Company Snowmobiling Experience
With views of the mountains, wildlife, hot springs, and even dog-drawn sleds, snowmobiling through the Tetons is a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll definitely want to bring your camera to capture.
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Where to Eat
The Kitchen
Helmed by executive chef Joe Boyles, The Kitchen offers a unique spin on Asian cuisine. Think: sticky rice tamales, elk pho, and—perhaps most notably—shrimp and grits.
Local
This steakhouse serving up specialty cuts of seasonal, locally sourced meats is, pun intended, a local favorite. The Buffalo Wellington, comprised of buffalo tenderloin, mushroom duxelles, spinach, puff pastry, and horseradish bordelaise sauce drizzled on top, is one highlight of many. Vegetarians may want to dine elsewhere.
Persephone Bakery
Everything is good at Persephone Bakery, an adorable, sunlit café downtown, but especially the bread and pastries. Come ready to carbo load to your heart’s content.
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Where to Drink
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar
No trip to Jackson is complete without a stop at Wyoming’s self-proclaimed landmark watering hole, Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Take a seat on one of the saddle bar stools and enjoy a craft beer or whiskey and live music (Willie Nelson has played here, among others). Make sure to get the full story behind the taxidermy bear.
Silver Dollar Bar & Grill
Situated inside the Wort Hotel, the Western-themed Silver Dollar Bar & Grill is known for its silver dollar coin-adorned bar and swing dancing, where pros will literally grab you onto the dance floor and teach you the steps in real time.
The Mangy Moose Restaurant & Saloon
The Mangy Moose is a go-to après-ski bar for many reasons, a few of them being its boozy slushies, trays of nachos, and quirky décor—stuffed moose included.
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Where to Stay
The Cloudveil
The Cloudveil, right on the Town Square, is the epitome of convenience, with complimentary breakfast, shuttles to and from the mountain, and snack stations on each floor. Part of the Autograph Collection of hotels, the luxury property has 100 guest rooms and suites, along with its own restaurant, The Bistro, an outdoor pool and hot tub, and live music in the lobby. In case you were curious, the name is a tribute to the Cloudveil Dome in the Tetons, and can be seen in the painting above by a local artist.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole
Like most Four Seasons, the Jackson Hole property doesn’t miss. Conveniently located at the base of the mountain, the ski-in, ski-out resort is a great choice if you’re trying to maximize your time on the slopes. If not, then check out The Handle Bar for a beer “boot” and a homemade mustache-shaped pretzel, hence the name.
Amangani
You can count on Amangani, of the ultra-luxe Aman resort chain, for outdoor pools, fire pits, and classy, stylish, and sprawling rooms with balcony views of the Snake River Valley and Tetons. It’s a bit of a schlep from the mountain, but the solitude is well worth it.
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Beauty Picks
Aquaphor Lip Repair
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When your lips are too chapped to purse or even kiss, Aquaphor is the only answer. Apply it liberally on the plane, at night, and in the morning.
Alpyn Beauty Melt Moisturizer with Bakuchiol and Squalene
Combat Wyoming’s drier-than-dry air with this moisturizer from local brand Alpyn Beauty, made with hyaluronic acid, squalene, and wild plants.
Flamingo Estate Skin Strength Salve
Here, your skin needs all the help it can get. Fortunately, this strengthening salve will help protect you against the elements by locking in moisture.
Deputy Editor
Claire Stern is the Deputy Editor of ELLE.com. Previously, she served as Editor at Bergdorf Goodman. Her interests include fashion, food, travel, music, Peloton, and The Hills—not necessarily in that order. She used to have a Harriet the Spy notebook and isn’t ashamed to admit it.
