Adventure in !

National Elk Refuge

Why Visit?

Discover the Wild: Adventure Tour at the National Elk Refuge

Day 1: Arrival in Jackson, Wyoming

Begin your wild adventure in the charming town of Jackson, a gateway to the National Elk Refuge. Upon arrival, check into a local lodge and gear up for a thrilling journey. In the evening, stroll through the town square, framed by arches made of shed elk antlers, hinting at the incredible wildlife experience that awaits.

Day 2: Wildlife Safari & Elk Viewing

Rise early and head to the National Elk Refuge. The best way to explore is to join a guided wildlife safari tour. These are available through local operators and typically start from the Jackson visitor centers. As you traverse the refuge in specially-designed vehicles, keep your eyes peeled for herds of majestic elk, especially prominent during the winter months. The refuge, established in 1912, spans an impressive 24,700 acres and serves as a crucial habitat for the elk’s survival during the harsh winters. Besides elk, you might spot bighorn sheep, wolves, and over 175 bird species.

Day 3: Sleigh Ride & Photography

In the winter months, don"t miss the unique opportunity to take a horse-drawn sleigh ride among the elk herds, offering an up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures. The sleigh rides provide a silent approach to observe and photograph elk in their natural habitat, making it a highlight for adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

Day 4: Hiking Flat Creek Trail

Dedicate your day to exploring the Flat Creek Trail on foot. This easy to moderate trail offers stunning views and the chance to spot various wildlife. The trailhead starts just north of the National Museum of Wildlife Art, which is worth a visit for its inspiring collections and overlooks the refuge.

Departure

After a refreshing breakfast in Jackson, bid farewell to the wild landscapes and the memories made at the National Elk Refuge, taking a piece of the wild West with you.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Snake River

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating river journey along the legendary Snake River, traversing the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. This adventure-filled itinerary promises white-water thrills, stunning scenery, and a taste of history.

Day 1: Arrival in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Fly into Jackson Hole Airport, nestled in the scenic Grand Teton National Park. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive to the nearby Snake River. Settle into a riverside cabin and enjoy an evening under the stars.

Day 2: White-water Rafting

Kick off the day with a heart-pumping white-water rafting trip through the Snake River Canyon. Opt for a guide from local outfitters like Mad River Boat Trips or Barker-Ewing, who offer tours ranging from gentle floats to Class III rapids. Witness the towering canyon walls and keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys.

Day 3: Kayaking and Cultural History

Switch gears with a kayaking excursion. Paddle along calmer stretches of the river, soaking in the tranquil beauty and exploring hidden inlets. In the afternoon, visit the nearby National Museum of Wildlife Art to appreciate art inspired by the area"s natural beauty and fauna.

Day 4: Hiking and Photography

Embark on a guided hike along the riverbanks or nearby mountain trails. Popular routes include the Jenny Lake Trail or the more challenging Cascade Canyon. Capture breathtaking views perfect for any photography enthusiast.

Day 5: Fly Fishing and Relaxation

Conclude your adventure with a serene day of fly fishing. The Snake River is renowned for its fine-spotted cutthroat trout. Local guides, such as Snake River Angler, offer fly fishing lessons and gear rentals.

Departure

After a refreshing morning by the river, make your way back to Jackson Hole Airport for your departure, filled with unforgettable memories of the Snake River"s wild beauty.

Every twist and turn of the Snake River offers something new to discover, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Yellowstone National Park

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaire: Yellowstone National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Mammoth Hot Springs

Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, rent an SUV, and drive south for 1.5 hours to reach Yellowstone"s North Entrance. Start your adventure with the surreal terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs. Walk the boardwalks to witness the steaming limestone creations and keep an eye out for resident elk. Overnight at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel or camp at nearby sites.

Day 2: Wildlife Safari and Tower Fall

Rise early for a wildlife safari in the Lamar Valley—often called America"s Serengeti, where you may spot bison, wolves, and grizzlies. Head westward to Tower-Roosevelt, and hike to the thunderous 132-foot Tower Fall. Along the way, learn about the Yellowstone super-volatile volcano beneath your feet, which powers the park"s famous geothermal features.

Day 3: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Depart early for the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, about an hour drive south. Hike the North Rim Trail for stunning views of the Lower Falls, the tallest waterfall in Yellowstone at 308 feet. For the brave, the challenging hike down Uncle Tom"s Trail offers close-up views of the falls—a visceral connection to Yellowstone’s primal forces.

Day 4: Geyser Exploration and Lake Yellowstone

Venture to the Midway Geyser Basin to see the mesmerizing colors of Grand Prismatic Spring. Continue to Old Faithful to witness its predictable eruptions, a perfect photo opportunity. Afterward, head to Lake Yellowstone for an afternoon kayak trip, exploring hidden bays and the tranquil waters, a stark contrast to the geothermal activity nearby.

Day 5: Departure

On your final morning, enjoy a serene sunrise over Lake Yellowstone. Drive back to Bozeland, savoring the last views of this stunning wilderness, ready to plan your next adventure.

Tips

- Reserve accommodations and permits early.

- Carry bear spray and know safety protocols.

- Check the park’s website for road and trail closures.

Revel in the wild, untamed beauty of Yellowstone, where each day brings a new adventure and a deeper respect for nature’s power.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

Why Visit?

Embark on a mesmerizing adventure to the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a treasure trove set against the backdrop of the stunning Teton Range. This architectural marvel, reminiscent of a Scottish castle, overlooks the National Elk Refuge, offering a splendid synthesis of art and wilderness.

Getting There

Fly into Jackson Hole Airport, the closest airport, serviced by major airlines. From the airport, the museum is a mere 10-minute drive. Take a taxi or rent a car; the scenic route along U.S. Highway 89 provides breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

- Arrive in Jackson Hole and settle in.

- Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art in the afternoon. Located at 2820 Rungius Road, it"s easily accessible. Start with the Sculpture Trail, a dynamic outdoor gallery, where art meets the wild. Wander among life-size sculptures that celebrate animals in their natural habitats.

Day 2: Museum Deep Dive & Local Hiking

- Spend the morning exploring the museum"s galleries. The museum hosts over 5,000 artworks, from Carl Rungius’s rugged landscapes to Georgia O’Keeffe’s captivating representations of animal skulls.

- After immersing yourself in art, embrace the wild by hiking the nearby trails. The popular Flat Creek Trail directly opposite the museum offers stunning vistas and wildlife observation—keep an eye out for elk, bison, and eagles.

Day 3: Elk Refuge Adventure

- Book a guided tour of the National Elk Refuge. Winter visitors can experience a sleigh ride among the elk herds, while summer tours focus on the ecology and management of this vital habitat.

Interesting Facts

- The museum’s unique architecture is designed to blend into the hillside, minimizing visual impact and preserving the natural beauty of the site.

- It was founded in 1987 and is a hub for wildlife conservation, art education, and community engagement.

This three-day itinerary promises a perfect blend of art, nature, and adventure, making your trip to the National Museum of Wildlife Art unforgettable.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Grand Targhee Ski Resort

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling winter escape to Grand Targhee Ski Resort, a hidden gem nestled in the Teton Mountains in Alta, Wyoming. Renowned for its impressive snowfall, averaging over 500 inches annually, the resort offers pristine powder and stunning landscapes ideal for adventure lovers.

Getting There

Grand Targhee is most accessible via Jackson Hole Airport, about an hour’s drive away. Rent a 4WD for a scenic journey through Teton Pass, offering breathtaking views and a chance to acclimate to the mountain terrain. As you ascend, watch for wildlife and the grandeur of the surrounding national forests.

Day 1: Hit the Slopes

Start your adventure at the resort, well-equipped for all skiing levels. Beginners can take a lesson at the ski school, while experts head straight for the challenging chutes and glades. Don’t miss a ride on the Dreamcatcher chairlift for panoramic views of the Tetons.

Day 2: Cat Skiing Tour

Elevate your adventure with a Cat Skiing tour. Accessed by a snowcat, you’ll find untouched powder in remote areas of the resort. This guided experience not only offers thrilling descents but also exclusive insights into the mountain"s geography and history.

Day 3: Snowshoeing and Après-Ski

Switch gears and explore the resort"s extensive snowshoe trails. Guided tours can reveal hidden nooks of the mountain and local wildlife tracks. After a day outdoors, unwind at the Trap Bar & Grill with live music and a local brew, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the area.

Interesting Fact

Grand Targhee Resort was one of the first skiing areas in the US to allow snowboarding, embracing the sport in the early 1980s and contributing to its popularity today.

This adventure-packed visit to Grand Targhee Ski Resort offers not just a getaway but an immersion into the wild, wintery expanse of Wyoming’s lesser-known slopes.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.