Though Jackson is a popular tourist destination, many of the greatest gems in our valley remain largely undiscovered as tourists line the highway between the town of Jackson and entrances to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks for only the most popular sites. If you’re willing to travel a few extra miles, you’ll find breathtaking beauty and views similar to the ones discovered by French trappers in the 1800s that have made this rugged landscape such a treasure for people from all over the world for generations. Learn a little more about a few of the locals best kept secret destinations below:
1. Cache Creek
The Bar T 5 Chuckwagon show takes visitors for a western adventure just under a mile up the trail in covered wagons to enjoy dinner and a show at a designated campsite along the trail. Trail runners and mountain bikers are in heaven with the multitude of trails available to explore, including the Cache to Game Creek trail that is just over 10 miles and offers some of the most awe-inspiring views the valley has to offer. Cache Creek is home to an array of wildlife including, moose, elk, bears, and deer. Make sure to bring your bear spray and enjoy this quieter gem nestled to the east beyond the residential neighborhoods of Jackson.
2. Swim at Goodwin Lake
Just beyond the Gros Ventre Wilderness, the Goodwin Lake trail hike is just over 6 miles that will bring you to the lake. We’d recommend bringing your swimming trunks and cooling off after lunch at this favorite spot. You’ll beat the tourist crowds and soak in unparalleled views at Goodwin Lake. The lake is frigid, which is perfect for cooling off on those unrelenting scorching days during the summer. Beware that Goodwin Lake is a popular hit with the local black bears, as well. Prepare accordingly and bring bear spray.
3. Josie’s Ridge Hike
Josie’s Ridge it is a steep out and back 2 1/2 mile hike, located just off of the bike path trail system in the town of Jackson. It offers beautiful and secluded views to the northwest of both the town of Jackson and the Tetons. It is a perfect quieter hike that is still well traveled if you are looking to break out of your routine or take your pup on a hike to some new views close to town. If you are interested in extending your time on the hill, you can connect at the upper junction to the Snow King Nature Trail. Josie’s Ridge is open to all sorts of nature lovers from hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.
Book a trip to Jackson today and discover the magic of these unique places for yourself. Our reservation agents are happy to answer all of the questions you may have about planning a trip to Jackson Hole and the greater Yellowstone area. We look forward to helping you plan your trip of a lifetime.
