Photo Credit: Diana Robinson

Strap on a pack and get ready for a true western adventure in one of the most picturesque spots in the U.S. – Grand Teton National Park. A great family friendly getaway, explore Teton Village, home of the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, and GTNP for three days of panoramic views, wildlife and outdoor activities.

Day 1

Get an early start in Teton Village with a ride on the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram. This unforgettable ride takes you from your car up 4,000 feet to the mountain summit in just 9 minutes. The large windows surrounding the tram offer 360-degree views of the Snake River Valley and the park and provide the chance to see wildlife such as bear, moose or mule deer. The ride takes you to the top of Rendezvous Mountain at 10,450 feet where you can view the expansiveness surrounding you. If you are hungry, grab a “top of the world” waffle at Corbet’s Cabin. This made-to-order treat comes with your choice of Nutella, brown sugar butter or strawberry preserves and it a great compliment to the amazing views 4,000 feet above the valley.

From the top of the tram, head off to one of the many great day hikes, with various trails from moderately easy to strenuous. Trails from the top go through wildflower meadows and provide consistent valley views with the possibility of seeing local wildlife such as moose, deer, marmots and pikas. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can arrange a tandem paragliding lesson launched from the summit. It's one of the highest vertical drops in the U.S. and provides a view of the valley like no other. After a day of adventure at 10,450 feet, relax and spend the night at one of the many Teton Village hotels and prepare for another day of outdoor fun.

Day 2

Spend the morning in Teton Village letting the kids play on the bungee trampoline, climbing wall, and in the popjet fountains in the Commons. Biking is another great option with miles of easily accessible single-track and paved trails.

When you're ready, head up to Grand Teton National Park, just one mile from Teton Village on Moose-Wilson Road. You can hike, bike or drive there. Hiking trails into GTNP start at both the top of the tram and in the base area. A great option is the Valley Trail, which traverses along relatively flat terrain to Phelps Lake, adjacent to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. The 5.1 mile hike (one way) ends at a pristine lakeshore and is an ideal spot for picnicking and swimming. If you choose to bike, rent a hybrid bike from JH Sports in Teton Village and take the Moose-Wilson Pathway where you can spend the afternoon bunked-up in either Teton Village or the park.

Day 3

Get ready to spend a full day in the park. Head over to the picturesque Jenny Lake and hop on the shuttle boat for a ride across the turquoise water to the west shore boat dock. From there, hike to Hidden Falls (1.2 miles roundtrip, 1.5 hrs, 150’ vertical rise) and Inspiration Point (2.0 miles roundtrip, 2.5 hrs, 420’ vertical rise). The Falls provide a great shaded place to picnic. If you wish to continue hiking, head up the Cascade Canyon trail that takes you through meadows and offers views of the Grand, Mount Owen and Teewinot, as well as the chance to see a moose wading in the stream.