FAMILY MULTISPORT YELLOWSTONE & TETONS CASUAL INNS In Yellowstone and the Tetons, the West is still wild. Geysers gush. Mud pots bubble. Old Faithful shoots skyward. Spectacular sawtooth peaks reach to the open sky. Bison and moose graze amid lodgepole pines. Osprey camp out atop awesome pinnacles. Meadows burst with mountain bluebells and paintbrush. Glacial lakes draw trumpeter swans. And we re getting wild, too! Hiking, biking, kayaking, white-water rafting and more. Two national parks. Wild scenery. Wild life. Wild activities. Wild fun. 14MYTQF1A (9/26/13)
Parent time, kid time, family time. Each itinerary balances quality time together and apart, with welcome opportunities for everyone to take a break and recharge usually impossible on a family vacation. Fun, fun, fun! We met wonderful people and learned a ton too. It was our first Backroads trip, and now we plan to take at least one per year for the rest of our lives. The leaders were incredible...fun, educated, and accommodating to our every need. They went way beyond the call of duty every single day. It was the best trip we ve ever had! Eve Porinchak - San Luis Obispo, CA We bring families closer together through exciting travel experiences and stimulating adventures that let you interact in ways you d never encounter back home. Three experienced Trip Leaders (and as many as five on Camping Trips) take care of all the day-to-day logistics. They re knowledgeable and enthusiastic motivators for your kids, interact with excitement and are inspiring role models. A dedicated Kid Coordinator orchestrates activities for the entire family, plus an hour or two per day of kids-only fun often focused on local culture or the natural environment. No canned activities or tourist throngs. You ll get plenty of fresh air and outdoor activity together while discovering a whole new part of the world and a whole new side of yourselves. Activities designed with the whole family in mind including easier routes to suit kids abilities and attention spans and great longer options for adults and teens. Multi-vehicle support because we know that families need extra support. We use two or three vehicles plus a trailer for luggage and supplies. More families means more fun and makes the trip enjoyable for everyone. 6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS ROUTE RATING LEVELS 1 4
We want to make sure you re on the right trip and that you have the best experience possible. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception. Accommodations & Service Standards Jackson Lake Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Old Faithful Inn are fairly rustic national park lodges that reflect the natural surroundings of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. While these historic hotels offer simpler accommodations than the typical Backroads property, they are the only game in town and have been selected because of their access to the best hiking and riding in the region. Although clean and comfortable, the guest rooms are basic and are not equipped with televisions or airconditioning. Generally speaking, service can seem slow and brusque in the national parks when compared with the high standards of service found on other Backroads trips. Interpretive Guides & Hiking Without Your Leaders The National Park Service doesn t permit guided walks and limits the size of all groups to 12. Accordingly, you ll walk in small groups without Backroads leaders or local guides. Your leaders will provide pre-walk briefings, maps and directions. We appreciate your cooperation with the park s regulations. On your bike ride through Grand Teton National Park, park-certified local guides will join your Backroads leaders to help navigate the route and provide van support. Day 1 You can choose to meet your Backroads Trip Leaders (the folks wearing Backroads T-shirts) in Jackson, Wyoming, or West Yellowstone, Montana. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes or carry them with you in a daypack that also contains your rain gear and anything else you might want for today s ride. You will be able to change before lunch at our picnic spot. Jackson pick-up location: Meet your leaders at 7 a.m. in the lobby of The Lexington at Jackson Hole Hotel & Suites (888-771- 2648 or 307-733-2648), located at 285 North Cache Street. West Yellowstone pick-up location: Meet your leaders at 10:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn (406-646-7365), located at 315 Yellowstone Avenue. Note that Backroads does not offer a shuttle back to West Yellowstone at the end of the trip. Make sure to let your Trip Consultant know in advance whether you ll be meeting your leaders in Jackson or in West Yellowstone. Shuttle to Yellowstone National Park 4 Hours from Jackson/30 Minutes from West Yellowstone Biking Options: Ojo Caliente Route: 9 Miles* (300 elevation gain) Old Faithful Route: 16 Miles (600 ) *with shuttle After meeting we shuttle to the Madison Junction picnic area in Yellowstone National Park, where we fuel up with lunch. Then your leaders fit your bike and give a brief talk on biking techniques and safety before you set off into the heart of Yellowstone. Observe the park s famous geothermal activity as you wind your way along the Firehole River, passing beautiful waterfalls on a steep two-mile climb one of the toughest of the trip! Kids (and any adults) can take on the hill the easy way in the van. We meet up for the relatively level ride to Lower Geyser Basin, stopping along the way to visit more thermal features. 3
Continue biking toward Upper Geyser Basin, home to more than 20 percent of the world s geysers, including the granddaddy of them all, Old Faithful. It s about 91 minutes between spectacular eruptions the interval has lengthened over the years, in part due to earthquakes. Each performance lasts 1½ to 5 minutes and shoots 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of boiling water into the air. Tonight s hotel, the historic Old Faithful Inn, was built from local lodgepole pines after the turn of the 19th century. We gather this evening on the lodge s upstairs deck for a pre-dinner reception. With any luck, Old Faithful will provide the floor show! Afterward we head to the inn s grand dining room for dinner. Lodging: Old Faithful Inn Day 2 Shuttle to Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone 1 Hour Walking & Hiking Options: Canyon Rim Route: 3.9 Miles* (200 elevation gain) Grand Canyon Route: 7.4 Miles* (600 ) Inspiration Point Route: 9.2 Miles* (1,200 ) Shuttle to Lake Yellowstone Hotel 1 Hour *with shuttle This morning s destination is one of the park s most dramatic features: the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Formed about 10,000 years ago, it s more than 20 miles long, 1,200 feet deep and 4,000 feet wide. Two thundering waterfalls and multicolored canyon walls make this one of the most photographed areas in the park. Exploring on foot is the best way to get a feel for the area s grandeur and diversity. Set out on Clear Lake Trail, passing through open meadows and stands of lodgepole pine, watching for bison that occasionally CASUAL INNS* OLD FAITHFUL INN 1 NIGHT Built in 1904 with a grand lobby seven stories high, a spectacular log-and-shingle château that captures the moment the West went from wild to Baroque, reports Travel + Leisure. Old Faithful 307-545-4600 www.travelyellowstone.com LAKE YELLOWSTONE HOTEL 1 NIGHT On the National Register of Historic Places, this classic park hotel, completed in 1891, sits along the shore of the lake. Yellowstone Lake 307-344-7901 www.travelyellowstone.com JACKSON LAKE LODGE 2 NIGHTS Situated in the heart of Grand Teton National Park, with 60-foot picture windows for savoring views of the Teton peaks and the roaming moose, elk and bison. (pool) Jackson Lake 307-543-2811 www.gtlc.com SNAKE RIVER LODGE & SPA 1 NIGHT (ABOVE) An upscale western-style lodge with plentiful amenities and a scenic location at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain. (pool, spa) Teton Village 800-239-1627 or 307-732-6000 www.snakeriverlodge.com *With 1 Premiere Inn night at Snake River Lodge & Spa Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multisport 4
graze here. The trail opens to reveal your first view of the immense canyon from the south rim. Steep jagged walls of pink, yellow and orange cradle the surging Yellowstone River below. Continue to Artist Point for a look at impressive Lower Falls, the origin of this powerful flow of water. Watch for ospreys that build nests atop rock pinnacles protected by the canyon walls. The rest of the hike alternates between quiet secluded stretches and popular lookout points. For a magnificent view of Lower Falls, explore Uncle Tom s Trail, which drops 500 feet in a series of stairs and inclines. The hike concludes at aptly named Inspiration Point. While adults finish up hiking, kids indulge in a sweet treat at the general store. We then shuttle to Lake Yellowstone Hotel, a Colonial-style inn that s been restored to its 1920s ambience. Tonight grown-ups enjoy a meal in the dining room; nearby Fishing Bridge Diner hosts the younger set. Lodging: Lake Yellowstone Hotel ROUTE RATING INFORMATION The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1 4. LEVEL 1 10 20 miles (biking) 2 5 miles (walking/hiking) 2 3 hours LEVEL 2 21 30 miles (biking) 4 7 miles (walking/hiking) 2 4 hours Day 3 Shuttle to Grant Village 30 Minutes Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake 3 4 Hours Shuttle to Grand Teton National Park 1 Hour After a hearty breakfast we set out for Yellowstone Lake, the largest lake in the park and the nation s largest alpine lake above 7,000 feet. Covering 136 square miles, this body of water provides an expansive and pristine setting for our paddling excursion in sleek two-person kayaks. If you ve never kayaked before, not to worry: our guides offer expert advice before we push off. (Kids must be at least 6 years old and 45 pounds to participate.) While we glide across the water, learn about the lake s history, including the area s recovery from the devastating 1988 fires. We also check out a small part of the lake known to experience geothermal activity. As you pass the shoreline, notice steam rising from the ground and how the soil s color has been altered by its mineral content. Yellowstone Lake is prime bird-watching territory, so keep an eye out for white pelicans, waterfowl and even bald eagles. Midway through our paddle, we pull ashore to stretch our legs and relax over a picnic lunch. In the afternoon we shuttle to neighboring Grand Teton National Park and our home for the next two nights, Jackson Lake Lodge. In the lodge s upper lobby, 60-foot picture windows frame the Tetons jagged peaks an image that is particularly breathtaking at dawn and dusk. Before dinner, cool off in the pool or explore one of the nearby trails. Lodging: Jackson Lake Lodge LEVEL 3 31 40 miles (biking) 5 9 miles (walking/hiking) 3 5 hours LEVEL 4 41 55 miles (biking) 6 11 miles (walking/hiking) 4 6 hours Review the Route Rating section on the web for more details on daily route options. 5
Day 4 Optional Activities in Grand Teton National Park (Including Walking & Hiking Options of 4 14 Miles) A national park since 1929, Grand Teton is a paradise of sawtooth mountains, peaceful meadows, shimmering lakes and dense forests. The Teton Range includes 12 mountains over 12,000 feet, Grand Teton being the tallest at 13,770 feet. The day is yours to explore this glorious park. Since biking isn t an option today, consider putting on hiking shoes and shuttling 30 minutes to Jenny Lake, where a scenic boat ride takes you to the mouth of Cascade Canyon. The out-and-back hike allows you to go as far as you d like. The trail climbs steeply to Inspiration Point for a fantastic view and then continues gradually along Cascade Creek through a sea of mountain bluebells, dandelions, paintbrush and daisies. If you make it to Lake Solitude (at 9,000 feet), you ll want to take a break and bask in the grandeur of Mount Teewinot, Mount Owen and Grand Teton. If you prefer to stay closer to the hotel, hike to Emma Matilda Lake or Christian Pond. Both areas are prime habitats for moose and trumpeter swans; open meadows provide terrific views of the Tetons and Jackson Lake. (Park regulations prohibit Backroads leaders from giving guided walks. If you choose to hike today, you ll be on your own.) Other park activities include canoeing, a scenic boat cruise on Jackson Lake from Colter Bay, fishing excursions and horseback riding. Always wanted to try rock climbing? Exum Mountain Guides offers introductory climbing classes. Inquire about their family-friendly Hidden Falls course your leaders can shuttle you to Exum s headquarters at Jenny Lake. (These activities are not included in the trip price and advance reservations are strongly recommended.) Back at the lodge this evening, your leaders corral the kids for a Western barbecue. Meanwhile, adults dine in KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE We are always seeking opportunities to enhance this itinerary. We ll be certain to notify you of any important changes prior to departure; other changes may be communicated on trip by your leaders. the lodge s Mural Room, where panoramic windows frame the majestic Grand Tetons. Lodging: Jackson Lake Lodge Day 5 Shuttle to Jenny Lake 30 Minutes Biking Options: Blacktail Ponds Route: 15 Miles* (200 elevation gain) Gros Ventre Route: 24 Miles* (200 ) Spring Gulch Route: 31 Miles* (200 ) Teton Village Route: 42 Miles (400 ) *with shuttle Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, embark on a bike ride along the valley floor of Jackson Hole. Accompanied by local guides, pedal the level-to-rolling terrain, skirting the base of the mountain range past Teewinot, and Grand, Middle and South Teton peaks. Observe striking geologic features across the valley such as Sheep Mountain (also known locally as Sleeping Indian ), and look for the Gros Ventre (French for big belly ) Slide, where 50 million cubic yards of earth plummeted down the mountain slope in 1925. The debris created a 225- foot-high dam across the river, forming Lower Slide Lake. It held for nearly two years before part of it gave way, sending mud, rocks and water down the canyon and nearly wiping out the town of Kelly. After more than eight decades, the scar is still visible. While you re riding across the spectacular valley floor, also watch for bison, pronghorn and other wildlife. Following a great day of riding, adults have time to stroll around the Wild West town of Jackson, while the younger set joins the Kid Coordinator for some fun activities. Then it s a quick shuttle to our last night s hotel, Snake River Lodge & Spa, which offers plenty of Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multisport 6
amenities, from a swimming pool and hot tubs to a fullservice spa. (Spa treatments are not included in the trip price. Reservations are recommended.) Dinner tonight is at the lodge s acclaimed Gamefish restaurant. Lodging: Snake River Lodge & Spa Day 6 Shuttle to Rafting Put-in Spot 1 Hour Rafting on the Snake River 2 Hours Shuttle to Jackson 1 Hour The grand finale of our trip is a white-water rafting adventure on the Snake River. In the hands of expert river runners, we navigate thrilling Class II and III sections of the Snake River Canyon. It s not only an adrenaline rush but also a great way to experience the wilderness from a different perspective. (Kids must be at least 6 years old for rafting.) Be sure to bring a change of clothes. Afterward we shuttle to Jackson for a relaxed picnic lunch before saying our goodbyes. Please see Arriving & Departing for end-of-trip logistics. Arriving & Departing See Day 1 for meeting time and location. CONCLUSION OF THE TRIP The trip ends with a complimentary shuttle to the Jackson Hole airport, Snake River Lodge & Spa and select Jackson hotels. Drop-offs at the Jackson Hole airport are between 2:30 and 3 p.m. If you plan to fly out of Jackson on the last day of the trip, please schedule your flight for after 4:30 p.m. (Note: The airport requests that travelers arrive two hours prior to their flight due to long security lines during busy summer months.) Drop-offs in downtown Jackson at the following locations are also between 2:30 and 3 p.m. (see Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip for more details on these hotels): The Lexington at Jackson Hole Hotel & Suites: 285 North Cache Street; 888-771-2648 or 307-733-2648 Parkway Inn: 125 North Jackson Street; 307-733- 3143 or 800-247-8390 The drop-off at Snake River Lodge & Spa (7710 Granite Loop Road, Teton Village; 800-239-1627 or 307-732- 6000) is between 3 and 3:30 p.m. FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS This trip begins and ends in Jackson, Wyoming. Due to our early meeting time, you ll want to arrive in Jackson (or West Yellowstone) the day before the trip starts. For your convenience, we recommend flying into and out of Jackson (airport code: JAC; www.jacksonholeairport.com) and taking the 7 a.m. 7
Backroads shuttle from The Lexington on the first day of the trip. American, Delta, United and Frontier are among airlines serving Jackson Hole Airport. It is also possible to fly into West Yellowstone, Montana (WYS; www.yellowstoneairport.org), and out of Jackson. SkyWest, in partnership with Delta Air Lines (www.delta.com; 800-221-1212), is the only airline that services Yellowstone Airport. SkyWest offers a limited number of flights from Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone. All reservations must be booked through Delta. Keep in mind that Backroads does not provide transportation back to West Yellowstone at the end of the trip. Another option is flying into Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC; www.slcairport.com); Delta, American, United and Southwest are among airlines serving Salt Lake City International Airport. From there you can take the Mountain States Express van shuttle to and from Jackson. (See Ground Transportation Between Salt Lake City & Jackson. ) For help arranging air transport to and from your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Our expert travel advisors are ready to share their insiders knowledge of Backroads and our worldwide destinations. These professional agents are available to assist you with any of your travel needs. Call 800-GO- ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday Friday, 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Pacific time. DRIVING TO JACKSON Jackson can be reached from the west via Highway 22; from the south via Route 89 or 189 to Route 191; or from the north via Route 26. To reach downtown Jackson hotels, turn left onto Broadway Street at the junction of Routes 22 and 89/191. To arrive at The Lexington, our meeting location, continue down Broadway and turn left on North Cache Street; the hotel PRICES & SCHEDULES All prices and schedules were current at the time of printing, but are subject to change at any time. will be on the left, at 285 North Cache Street. (If you plan to stay at the Lexington at Jackson Hole before or after your trip, you can leave your car there for the duration of the trip; otherwise, your leaders will advise you where to park when they meet you on Day 1.) DRIVING TO WEST YELLOWSTONE If you choose to drive yourself to West Yellowstone, you ll need to arrange your own transportation back at the end of the trip. Buckboard Taxi (www.buckboardtrans.com; 877-791-0211 or 307-733- 1112) offers transportation from Jackson to West Yellowstone; the cost is about $250 for up to five passengers. If you plan to rent a car, make sure the company will allow you to drop off the car in West Yellowstone. Avis (www.avis.com; 800-331-1212 or 406-646-7635) has a location at the West Yellowstone airport, and Budget (www.budget.com; 800-527-0700 or 406-646-7882) has locations at the West Yellowstone airport and downtown West Yellowstone. Directions: From the north, take Interstate 90, then Route 191. Follow North Canyon Street into West Yellowstone, then turn right on Yellowstone Avenue. The Holiday Inn is two blocks ahead on your right, at the corner of Electric Avenue. From the south, take Interstate 15, then Route 20. Turn right onto Dunraven Street in West Yellowstone. In two blocks, make a right on Yellowstone Avenue. The Holiday Inn is one block ahead on your right. While road closures are rare, it s always a good idea to check current conditions by calling the park s recorded message at 307-344-2117. Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multisport 8
GROUND TRANSPORTATION IN JACKSON Buckboard Taxi (www.buckboardtrans.com; 877-791- 0211 or 307-733-1112) offers transportation from the Jackson Hole airport to downtown Jackson. The private taxi costs $35 for up to two passengers, $42 for three passengers, $49 for four passengers and $56 for five passengers. Jackson Hole Airport Shuttle Service (www.jacksonholealltrans.com; 800-443-6133 or 307-733-3135) offers transportation from the Jackson Hole airport to downtown Jackson. Cost per person is $16 one-way; $31 round-trip. GROUND TRANSPORTATION BETWEEN SALT LAKE CITY & JACKSON If you fly in and out of Salt Lake City, you can take the Mountain States Express, which departs daily at 1 p.m., arriving at 6 p.m. The vans make several stops en route to Jackson; the fare is about $70 each way. Please contact the company for the most current rates and schedules (www.mountainstatesexpress.com; 800-652- 9510 or 307-733-1719). Return van shuttles depart Jackson at 6:30 a.m. and arrive in Salt Lake City at noon. (Because we don t arrive in Jackson until late afternoon on the last day of the trip, you will have to stay overnight in Jackson and catch this departure the following morning.) GROUND TRANSPORTATION IN WEST YELLOWSTONE Yellowstone Road Runner (www.yellowstoneroadrunner.com; 406-640-0631) offers transportation from West Yellowstone Airport to West Yellowstone hotels for approximately $20 (1 5 people). Advance reservations are recommended. Climate Pleasant biking and walking weather usually prevails all summer in Yellowstone and the Tetons. However, mountain weather is unpredictable and can change with little warning, so it s essential that you bring rain gear and warm layers. Please see Suggested Packing List in your Travel Planner for more details on clothing and gear. Jackson, Wyoming Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun High F 27 33 41 53 63 72 Low F 5 5 16 25 31 37 Precip. inches 1.5 1.0 1.2 1.1 1.9 1.7 Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec High F 82 81 71 59 40 28 Low F 40 39 32 24 16 7 Precip. inches 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.1 1.4 1.5 West Yellowstone, Montana Average: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun High F 25 31 39 49 59 68 Low F -1 2 7 19 27 33 Precip. inches 2.2 1.7 1.7 1.4 2.0 2.3 Average: Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec High F 79 77 67 53 37 27 Low F 38 35 28 21 9 1 Precip. inches 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.5 1.7 1.9 9
Where to Stay Before & After Your Trip For help making hotel reservations for before and after your Backroads trip, please work with your own travel agent, or you may choose to work with the Backroads Travel Desk. Call 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to be connected with an advisor. Please note that consulting or ticketing fees may apply, depending on the services requested. The Backroads Travel Desk is open Monday Friday, 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Pacific time. Of course, we also recommend extending your stay at any of the hotels we visit on this trip; see the accommodations sidebar for details. If you choose to stay at the Snake River Lodge & Spa after the trip ends, let the reservations agent know you re traveling with Backroads; that way you may not have to change rooms. Refer to the Hotel Room Rate Guide for starting doubleoccupancy rates. Note that the chart reflects the internet and/or best available rates, which were accurate at the time of printing, but hotel rates are always subject to change. Also be aware that some hotels may require a minimum stay. We recommend that you consult directly with the hotels for specific details, as these requirements can change depending on the season and time of the week. Book early, especially during peak travel season! JACKSON, WYOMING The Lexington at Jackson Hole (A meeting location on Day 1 & a drop-off location on Day 6) Formerly called Trapper Inn, the family-run Lexington at Jackson Hole has been a downtown Jackson mainstay for 40 years. Located just two blocks from town square along the free town shuttle bus route. The Lexington offers comfort and convenience with airport transfers and a hot breakfast, all complimentary. Attentive staff goes the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay. Mention you are a Backroads guest, as a special rate may be available. (pool) 285 North Cache Street www.lexingtonhoteljacksonhole.com 888-771-2648 or 307-733-2648 91 rooms & suites Rates: Parkway Inn (A drop-off location on Day 6) Ideally situated in the heart of town, only three blocks from the lively town square, this tasteful modern inn with old-world appeal warmly welcomes guests with its American antiques, brass beds and cheerful floral fabrics. A continental breakfast is included. (pool) 125 North Jackson Street www.parkwayinn.com 800-247- 8390 or 307-733-3143 47 rooms & suites Rates: Amangani The Amangani is renowned for its simple yet contemporary atmosphere warmed by natural materials, textures and light. A member of the luxurious Aman Resorts (predominantly found in Asia), the lodge incorporates Far Eastern touches that can be seen in the service, attention to detail, cuisine and décor. But thanks to rustic wood and cowhide furnishings, and the majestic Teton mountain views seen through enormous windows, there s no mistaking you re in the great American West. With a spectacular setting and imaginative polished design, the Amangani lives up to its Sanskrit name peaceful home. (pool, spa) Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2013; Travel + Leisure World s Best Award 2013 1535 North East Butte Road www.amanresorts.com/amangani/home 877-734- 7333 or 307-734-7333 40 suites Rates: Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multisport 10
Four Seasons Resort (In Teton Village, about 10 miles from downtown Jackson) The luxurious Four Seasons Resort, with its modern woodand-stone interior, complements the stunning natural surroundings. Guest rooms feature wood-burning stone fireplaces, private balconies or terraces, and spacious bathrooms Amenities include the 11,685-square-foot Alpine Spa, a full-service fitness facility, swimming pool with panoramic views of the Tetons, and three hot springs-style outdoor whirlpools. During the summer, the hotel s Base Camp can arrange all manner of outdoor adventures, from horseback riding and balloon rides to fly fishing and river excursions. (pool, spa) Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2013; Travel + Leisure World s Best Award 2013 7680 Granite Loop Road, Teton Village www.fourseasons.com/jacksonhole 800-914-5110 or 307-732-5000 124 rooms & suites Rates: Spring Creek Ranch Located 1,000 feet above town, this rustic luxury resort offers a pristine wilderness setting with marvelous views of the Tetons, attractive accommodations and the delightful Granary Restaurant, famed for its elk steaks and chocolate cake. If you re looking to spread out during your stay, condominiums and private estate homes are also available for rent. (pool, spa, tennis) 1800 Spirit Dance Road www.springcreekranch.com 800-443- 6139 or 307-733-8833 36 rooms Rates: Alpine House Country Inn Located two blocks from the town square, this ecofriendly Scandinavian-style lodge offers cozy rooms with fireplaces and fluffy down comforters. Delicious chefprepared breakfasts feature such specialties as buttermilk strawberry waffles and eggs Benedict. Guests can also enjoy the massage room, library, sauna, outdoor hot tub and wraparound deck. (spa) 285 North Glenwood Street www.alpinehouse.com 800-753-1421 or 307-739-1570 27 rooms & cottages Rates: SPECIAL HOTEL SAVINGS Backroads has negotiated special rates for our guests at many hotels around the world. To find hotels with these exclusive Backroads savings, please visit www.backroads.com/hotelsavings. Wyoming Inn Upon entering the welcoming lobby, you ll immediately notice the massive river-stone fireplace, immense antler chandelier and front desk with intricate carvings of regional wildlife. The inn is known for friendly Western hospitality and amenities include complimentary airport pickup (8 a.m. 9 p.m.) and a fitness center. 930 West Broadway www.wyominginn.com 800-844-0035 or 307-734-0035 68 rooms Rates: Snow King Hotel Recently renovated, the Snow King Hotel offers comfortable Western hospitality with an elegant touch. The cozy rooms and suites feature regional furnishings and vintage photography ask for a balcony room for an extra perk. The hotel is also great for exploring: it s only a few blocks from Town Square and adjacent to the Snow King Recreation Area, with its scenic chairlift, alpine slide and network of hiking trails. Make sure to head to the deck of hotel s new restaurant, Hayden s Post, for drinks, hearty Western cuisine and views of Snow King Mountain. (pool, spa) 400 E. Snow King Ave. www.snowking.com 800-522-5464 or 307-733- 5200 200 rooms & suites Rates: Flat Creek Inn Every room in this family-owned property, situated just a few miles north of Jackson s bustling downtown, looks out on the expansive grasslands of the National Elk Refuge. Between the bike path across the street, Flat Creek Mart next door, the National Museum of Wildlife Art Museum just up the road and an airport shuttle, this lodging option is convenient and a good value. 1935 North Highway 89 www.flatcreekinn.com 307-733- 5276 72 rooms Rates: 11
Town Square Inns Antler Inn 43 West Pearl Street www.townsquareinns.com/antler-inn 800-522-2406 or 307-733-2535 110 rooms Rates: Cowboy Village Resort 120 South Flat Creek Drive www.townsquareinns.com/cowboy-village 800-962- 4988 or 307-733-3121 82 cabins Rates: 49er Inn & Suites 330 West Pearl Avenue www.townsquareinns.com/49er-inn-and-suites 800-451- 2980 or 307-733-7550 140 rooms & suites Rates: Elk Country Inn 480 West Pearl Avenue www.townsquareinns.com/elk-country 800-483-8667 or 307-733-2364 90 rooms & cabins Rates: WEST YELLOWSTONE, MONTANA Holiday Inn West Yellowstone (A meeting location on Day 1) Within walking distance of shopping, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, Yellowstone IMAX and a multitude of outdoor pursuits, the Holiday Inn is a convenient choice for the active traveler. Stop by the activity desk for help in arranging everything from biking and hiking expeditions to horseback riding or fly fishing. Relax at the end of fun-filled days in your well-appointed room or swim a few laps in the heated indoor pool. The hotel offers an airport shuttle service; please call when you arrive at the airport. (pool) 315 Yellowstone Avenue 877-859-5095 or 406-646- 7365 123 rooms & suites Rates: ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone An indoor pool and hot tub, laundry facilities and small fitness room make this hotel a comfortable place to crash. You may want to spring for an upgraded room with a whirlpool tub, microwave, mini-fridge, flat-screen TV and pillow-top king-size bed. Continental breakfast is included with all rooms. Make arrangements in advance for airport shuttle service. (pool) 105 South Electric Street www.yellowstoneclubhouseinn.com 800-565- 6803 or 406-646-4892 77 rooms Rates: Yellowstone Lodge Located just three blocks from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park, the lodge is a good home base for exploring the area. Shopping, dining and an array of amusements and activities are nearby. Start your day with a complimentary continental breakfast and end it with a soothing soak in the heated indoor pool or hot tub. (pool) 251 South Electric Street www.yellowstonelodge.com 877-239-9298 or 406-646-0020 80 rooms & suites Rates: Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multisport 12