Jackson Hole

Deciding where to stay in Jackson isn’t easy. Slopeside in Teton Village seems sensible for any keen skier who wants to make the most of the skiing, but the town of Jackson Hole, with the majority of lodgings, dining and nightlife venues, is unique—as close to a real Wild West town as you’re ever likely to spit in.

The architectural style is right in the mood: western-style saloons and shop fronts, galleried wooden sidewalks and hitching posts. If you took a wrong turn in the morning, you feel you could easily spend your day branding cattle rather than making your mark on the slopes. But don’t be fooled: Jackson is now home to more millionaires than cowboys, with luxurious ranches scattered over the surrounding area and a range of luxury hotel accommodations to match.

Twelve miles (32 km) away, Teton Village has some of the western feel of Jackson, despite being a purpose-built ski resort. It’s the place to stay if you want to really maximize time on the slopes. Most accommodations are within a short walk of the lifts, and there are all the amenities you are likely to need within the village, including stores, restaurants, and après-ski venues. Nevertheless, one or more après-ski visits to town are essential. There’s a US$2 (infrequent) bus service for which you can buy a book of tickets, or it’s a 15-minute cab ride.

The Village is currently undergoing expansion and renovation with over US$60 million spent on improving resort facilities since 1996. Along with updated ski infrastructure, several new skier-oriented provisions have been made, including a kids’ ranch building, retail space, ski rentals, lockers, and food and drink outlets. Four new hotels have also opened including the Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole. It is Teton Village’s premier hotel and the first Four Seasons Resort in a ski resort in the world.