Spring in the Tetons
Jackson Hole in the Spring
Welcome to a season of grand transition here in the youngest of the Rockies, the Grand Teton Mountain Range. Locals have coined this season ‘mud season’. Accurate. Though it doesn’t paint a complete picture of all that’s happening here under this western sky as summer comes to life.
Spring will vary year to year and some locals will escape the melt for desert vacations and trips to Mexico (LOVE Mexico). However, for those who stick around, you’re granted one of the quietest seasons the valley has to offer. Time slows down a bit and so does everything else. Skijoring is new to Teton Valley in Idaho, had its Second Annual Teton Valley Skijoring Event - a non-profit with an amazing mission.
Go on, enjoy spring in the Tetons like a local…
Bike in the Park
Rubber meets the road. Load up your bike and head into Grand Teton National Park. You’ll park at the Taggart Lake Trailhead, right before the closed road. Enjoy a short or long bike ride down the park road from there. You’re welcome to bring (leashed) pets with you on the road during this season as well. It’s the only time of year to really enjoy the park with your pup.
Find more information on the 14-mile section of the park road that remains closed through May 1st here (scroll down about a fourth of the page for routes).
Note the Snow
True to its nickname, spring can be muddy. Take note of how the snowmelt varies in different parts of the valley. Living like a local means not biking or hiking on muddy trails (read: take care of the trails).
That being said, if the snow is sturdy enough (or the ground is dry enough), get after it. Bring your bear spray (read: bears are leaving hibernation and might have cubs with them). There are a few great spring hiking trails from Taggart Lake you can find information about here.
Emily Stevens Park is also a great option for early season melt and a walk down by the river with sweeping views of the range at a distance. Enjoy three miles on the levee with your dog in tow.
Downtown Dining
Quiet season will come with its quirks (read: some establishments will close for some of spring). Where to dine during the spring in Jackson Hole? Glad you asked.
Cowboy Coffee
LOVE the Guacho Empanada. Born in the heart of Jackson, they have a total of five locations. Buy beans and see their shops here.
Pearl Street Bagels
30 years and counting slinging bagels for the valley. Great place to grab lunch before heading out for a ride in the park. See their locations here.
Nora’s Fish Creek Inn
A Wilson staple. Stop in for breakfast or lunch to enjoy this classic locals spot. Love this spot with the family. See their menu here.
Trio
A go-to for me. They’ll be closed through April 24th but enjoy their fine-dining after. See their menu here.
Soak Up the Season
Catch the last of the snow and the very first wildflowers during spring. As always here in Jackson, the temperature can swing quite a bit throughout the day, with the potential for evenings to dip below freezing. The perfect match for this? Head out to Astoria Hot Springs for a soak.
