You’ve just had a fantastic morning with the JH Shooting Experience, a delicious meal at The Bird, and milled around the shops on the Town Square. What to do now? How about a lovely drive to take in all that beautiful Jackson Hole has to offer! Maybe you’ll even see a buffalo. I’ll take you through my favorite Top Scenic Drives in Jackson Hole, but trust me, my words won’t do it justice, go and see for yourself!
Mormon Row
My favorite drive is to Mormon Row. Head out of town on Cache Street going north, looking out to your right to spot a deer or two on the National Elk Refuge. Before turning onto Lower Gros Ventre Road, look to your left for a magnificent view of the Grand Tetons. Breathtaking! As you come up on Mormon Row, you’ll find that you are apart of something historic. One barn in this old community has become one of the most photographed in the country. Does it look familiar? Don’t forget your camera, as the open landscape around you is home to all sorts of wildlife including moose, antelope, and buffalo!
Snake River Canyon
Another great drive is through Snake River Canyon. Driving south out of town, the road follows the beautiful canyon in a wavy path, with plenty of pull-outs for pictures! During the summer, you can even cheer on the brave white-water rafters in the river below. You’ll want to go yourself! In the fall, foliage makes for a romantic trip with its multi-colored leaves, creating a feeling like you’re in your own little world. This drive culminates in the little town of Alpine, with great restaurants to grab a bite to eat before heading back to Jackson.
Spring Gulch Road
A lovely day drive on Spring Gulch Road is a great way to spend some time with your loved ones. You’ll see old farms, with horses, cattle and sheep lining the roads on one side, and on the other you’ll encounter wildlife on the mountainside. As you look towards the Tetons, take in the breathtaking view and stop to take some family photos. Along the way you’ll see the entrances to Amangani and Spring Creek Ranch, two of the most luxurious hotels in the valley. If you feel the urge to stretch your legs, there are a few pull-offs along the way to take a short hike. The view from the top is amazing!
Inner Park Loop Road
As you enter the Grand Teton National Park, take a drive on the Inner Park Loop Road for a relaxing scenic adventure. Open May 1st to October 31st to cars, the Inner Park Loop Road is the best way to see all that the Grand Teton National Park offers. This 20-plus mile loop takes you past backwoods wildlife, under mountain peaks, and around the park passing miles of beautiful scenery. With plenty of turn-offs to take photos and learn a bit about the area, be sure to bring your camera and snap a photo in front of bison, elk, even moose! Take a detour to Jenny Lake and take a hike down to the water, or grab a bite to eat!
Granite Hot Springs
Head south toward Bondurant at Hoback Junction and take an adventure up to Granite Hot Springs! This scenic drive takes you about an hour outside of town, around twists and turns, seeing beautiful winding rivers and stunning rocky hillsides. Turn off onto Granite Creek Road and head to the Hot Springs, and as you drive over the hills and through the woods, look out for wildlife!!! You’ll soon see the rising mist of the Hot Springs, so take your swim gear and have a dip! Come out feeling relaxed and warm, as your muscles rejuvenate and your mind is put at ease.
These are just a few of the many stunning scenic drives you can take while visiting Jackson Hole. Even a drive around town is an a sight to behold, with all its western history! You can always ask one of our friendly neighbors where their favorite place is, and you may find yourself off the beaten path. So, if you have some free time, check out these and other great routes!
This article was by Lauren Sherwood, our late daughter. Lynn talks about her below.
