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Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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One cannot consider Jackson Hole as a singular destination. The Grand Teton Mountain range, Yellowstone National Park, and the National Elk Refuge are all inspiring destinations to themselves.  The Jackson Hole Ski Resort area sits right in the middle of all this natural beauty.

The Teton Range, with peaks rising as much as 7,000 feet off the valley floor, is the centerpiece of the park. The highest, most prominent peak is the Grand Teton, standing at 13,770 feet. Views from either of the two main roads are nothing short of spectacular.

With hundreds of miles of hiking trails that wind around the lakes and through the mountains; the choices for hiking are almost limitless. From easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings are guaranteed.

Climbers and mountaineers flock to the Tetons to hone their skills before moving on to the huge mountains of the world. They are demanding and require technical mountaineering experiences, especially during the winter.

The Teton Wilderness is home to over 585,238 acres of land. In the Bridger Wilderness you will find the highest point in Wyoming, Gannett Peak, which rests on the shared boundary with Fitzpatrick Wilderness.

The Upper Snake River is known worldwide for its crystal clear waters, numerous recreation adventures, and amazing varieties of wildlife. The ability to experience wild water rafting, world-class fishing, great hiking, and memorable camping are just a few of the reasons everyone visits the Snake River Canyon.

The National Elk Refuge in Jackson was established to preserve a part of the traditional winter range of the area elk population. Today, almost 10,000 elk winter in the refuge, which is located just north of the town of Jackson.

Jackson Hole has become one of the premier ski destinations in the United States. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has 116 named trails including 50% expert, 40% intermediate, and 10% beginner; 13 lifts including Bridger Gondola and "Big Red"; and the world-famous Aerial Tram. Jackson Hole has 2500 acres of in-bound terrain and a 4,139-foot vertical drop.

Other outdoor adventures surrounding the mountain include snowmobiling,  snowshoeing,  high mountain heli-skiing and cat skiing, sleigh rides, winter bike tours, nature ski and snowshoe tours, and paragliding.

Feel free to check out the Race Training Camp.  It is an intensive 3-day training camp culminating in a race on the last day. The training is geared to focus on drills and gate training that will allow the racer to improve their tactics, both in and out of the race course. Video analysis and feedback are used extensively through the race training. 

Another recommendation is to attend one of the first camps of the ski season. It is a five day event focused on getting in "ski shape." For 38 years, the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has offered a seasonal tune up for skiers. By attending the camp, you will be taught skills to improve balance, edging, alignment, and run through on-mountain drills to exercise and build muscle. It kind of sounds like "boot camp"!

Jackson Hole Mountain Sports School and Teton Gravity Research have partnered to offer a one-of-a-kind ski and snowboard camp for kids in middle and high school. TGR Camp offers teenagers the ultimate free-riding experience in the mountain mecca of Jackson Hole. Rising rippers spend three days learning from the superstars of the sport.

While Jackson Hole is known for offering terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels, no discussion of the terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is complete without talking about the legendary Corbet's Couloir. The tram cruises right by Corbet's on its way to the top, offering skiers and riders a glimpse of the famed run.

Jackson Hole has an abundance of dining options to satisfy your hunger. Look for regional specialties like trout, elk, and bison, but also expect progressive vegetarian dishes, sushi, Thai, Indian, and more. Jackson Hole, was the winner of one of America's "5 New Foodie Cities in 2014" by Wine enthusiast magazine.

The best part about visiting an international hotspot like Jackson Hole is checking out what the locals are wearing. Jackson Hole has an amazing selection of designer boutiques, American favorites, and western art and sculpture galleries allowing you to browse for hours collecting treats and one of a kind gifts that will remind you of this authentic western town long after you leave.

Jackson Hole has something for every nocturnal creature also. Go dancing or take in some live music, meet friends for drinks and a bite, or take in a play.  Jackson offers plenty of nightlife seven nights a week.

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