The best friend on earth of man is the tree: when we use the tree respectfully and economically we have one of the greatest resources of the earth.
– Frank Lloyd Wright
Skip the Crowds and
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
This year, why not skip the frenzied crowds at Black Friday sales and instead opt for a day outdoors?
The first snow has fallen in Jackson Hole and the winter season is cranking into gear. Let’s take a look at some of the many outdoor activities available right after Thanksgiving:
Open Season
Virtually all area ski resorts have their winter opening days around this time, and the slopes are ready for action. Expect plenty of opening weekend festivities at Snow King Mountain, Grand Targhee and, of course, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort:
Lighten Things Up
Thousands of LED bulbs will bring the famous Antler Arches to life at the Jackson Town Square on November 29.
This favorite holiday event features a visit from Santa Claus, holiday music provided by the Jackson Hole Community Band and Jackson Hole Chorale, plus cookies and hot chocolate.
The traditional schedule of events features the official lighting at 5:30 P.M., followed by Santa with help from the Jackson Hole first responders until 7:00 P.M.
Take a Wild Winter Ride
Grab your fat-tire snow bike and go for a winter ride. Head out to the Snake River Levee for a wonderfully scenic ride in the great outdoors.
Every winter, the Teton County/Jackson Parks and Recreation Department grooms the levee a couple times a week, establishing both a classic track and one for skate skiing
Or you could hop on one of the bike paths around town or head up to Cache Creek, the main access to the Snow King Area Trail System. But before you head out, be sure your bike is properly outfitted for winter and avoid any winter wildlife closures.
Hit the Ground Running
If you’re an avid runner, why not fasten some spikes onto your running shoes and hit the snow-covered trails around town? Up for a bigger adventure? The National Elk Refuge Road is often a good choice for a wintry run, since it’s typically less icy than other roadways.
Here are some winter running tips from Runner’s World:
Wear trail shoes or a traction device for better traction and stability in the snow.
Choose fresh snow over ice or packed snow; you’ll get better traction.
Shorten your running stride and keep your feet lower to the ground.
Slow down. It’s better to focus on getting in a solid run safely than to hurry your pace and risk getting hurt
When in doubt, walk through an icy stretch. It beats getting hurt slipping on ice. You can also slow down and use a gliding skating step, as well.
Relax and focus on the road ahead. Part of the tranquility of running in the snow is that it requires you to be in the moment and focus on every step you take.
Hike the Grand Tetons
Ready for a hiking adventure? Before you head out, be sure to check conditions to determine whether hiking boots (perhaps with spikes) or snowshoes would be the best foot gear for your trip out into the national park.
There are plenty of hiking options in the Grand Tetons. In addition to Teton Park Road, popular winter hiking trails include Colter Bay, Antelope Flats Road, and Flagg Ranch. If you’re looking for flatter trails, Bradley and Taggart Lakes are also popular hiking spots.
A few other reminders:
Make sure your hiking boots are warm, waterproof and provide adequate support.
Don’t cram extra socks into your boots unless there’s plenty of room for them. Tight-fitting boots will cut off circulation rather than keeping your feet warm.
Make sure your hands and head are adequately covered. Choose a thick, warm hat and mittens instead of gloves for warmth.
If there’s a lot of reflective snow, don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
Now, don’t just sit there… Go enjoy the great outdoors!
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