Search Results for: moose creek
Stay Close To The Slopes
Your Jackson Hole ski vacation should be as effortless as it is memorable, and with our conveniently located properties, you can enjoy easy access to the mountain and so much more. From the lively atmosphere of Teton Village to comfortable, family-friendly condos, our collection offers something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of our most popular options and what makes each one an ideal home base for your winter adventures.
1. Crystal Springs Condos
Located steps away from Jackson Hole’s Aerial Tram dock, Crystal Springs Lodge brings you close to the action. These condos provide quick access to the slopes, and if you book a private ski lesson, your instructor can even meet you right at your door, ensuring your day on the mountain starts with ease.
Crystal Springs isn’t just close to the slopes; it’s also right in the middle of Teton Village’s most exciting attractions. From concerts at the Mangy Moose to holiday activities like skating with Santa and the annual torchlight parade, there’s always something happening close by. Enjoy the comfort of coming home to a cozy fireplace after a day filled with skiing, shopping, or celebrating the season.
2. Moose Creek Townhomes
Moose Creek Townhomes offer a convenient and cozy ski experience with easy access to the Moose Creek Quad Chair, making it a favorite for those looking to hit the slopes quickly. It’s worth noting that the chair lift’s operations are dependent on snow conditions, but there’s always a complimentary ski shuttle available to take you right to the main resort area. As an added perk, guests staying at these condos enjoy access to the Sundance Swim and Tennis Club, complete with a heated pool and hot tub, providing the perfect après-ski relaxation spot.
3. Slope-Side Houses
Beyond Crystal Springs and Moose Creek Townhomes, Outpost offers a variety of properties close to the slopes, each designed to fit a range of styles and group sizes. From spacious lodges ideal for family gatherings to cozy retreats perfect for couples, our ski homes offer seamless access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort while maintaining the comforts and amenities you desire. Whether you’re seeking easy access to the slopes, spectacular mountain views, or a private hot tub for post-ski relaxation, our ski houses are ready to welcome you.
Plan Your Jackson Hole Adventure
Outpost’s conveniently located properties make your Jackson Hole experience seamless, offering unbeatable access to the slopes and everything the village has to offer. Whether you choose the central appeal of Crystal Springs, the comfortable ease of Teton Village Condos, or one of our other nearby homes, you’re guaranteed a comfortable, memorable stay.
Ready to book? Discover more about each property and get ready to experience the best of Jackson Hole with Outpost.
Our Favorite Ski-In/Ski-Out Vacation Rental Properties
As winter approaches, the iconic slopes of Jackson Hole beckon ski enthusiasts worldwide. Here at Outpost, we have a beautiful collection of ski-in/ski-out vacation rental properties, offering unparalleled access to the terrain and breathtaking views this region is known for. This year we are offering a new financing payment option using Affirm to make your winter booking even more accessible (and budget-friendly!). To sweeten the deal, we can bundle lift tickets with your stay. We can’t wait for you to experience all that Jackson Hole has to offer!
Moose Creek 25
Nestled amidst the pines, Moose Creek 25 is a cozy retreat with direct ski access to the world-famous Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Start your day on the slopes right from your doorstep and return to the warmth of your mountain-chic abode. With three bedrooms, an exercise bike, and access to a private hot tub, Moose Creek 25 is the perfect outpost to return to after a day of adventure.
Granite Creek Escape
This stunning eight-bedroom ski-in/ski-out chalet in Teton Village is the ultimate winter retreat for large groups. You can ski directly to the main lifts and base facilities of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort just off the doorstep. Relax by the fire, take in the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, and end your day in the private hot tub. For a winter wonderland escape with the family, Granite Creek is the perfect choice.
Crystal Springs 202
Experience the ultimate winter getaway at Crystal Springs 202, a beautiful 3-bedroom condo in Teton Village. With an open floor plan, fireplaces in the living room and primary bedroom, and a serene outdoor patio, it’s the perfect spot for post-ski relaxation. Located just 30 seconds from the iconic Tram, this condo offers direct access to world-class downhill trails.
Under the Tram
Nestled beneath the iconic Aerial Tram, Under The Tram is a spacious 4-bedroom, family home designed for the ultimate winter retreat. Offering true ski-in/ski-out access, this home comes complete with a private hot tub and sauna for unwinding after thrilling days on the slopes. Whether you’re curling up by the fireplace or walking to dinner in Teton Village, you’ll enjoy tranquility and convenience.
Don’t miss out on the excitement of skiing in the Tetons this winter! Enjoy a convenient and affordable booking process through Affirm, making it easier than ever to plan your trip. Start planning your Jackson Hole adventure today and experience the beauty and thrills of this winter paradise. We can’t wait to host you!
Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals and Activities in Jackson Hole
Jackson, Wyoming, is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and that includes your four-legged companions. From the towering peaks of the Teton Range to the streets of downtown Jackson, there are countless ways to enjoy this valley with your pets by your side. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or a summer adventure, our pet-friendly vacation rentals offer the perfect home base for exploring all that Jackson has to offer. Here’s a guide to the best pet-friendly activities and tips for making the most of your trip with your furry friend.
Stay in Comfort: Our Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
When you book one of our pet-friendly vacation rentals, you’ll find that we’ve thought of everything to make your stay enjoyable and stress-free. Our properties offer spacious accommodations with grassy areas outside your door and easy access to local parks and trails. We understand that pets are family, and our pet-friendly rentals ensure that everyone, including your furry family member, feels right at home.
Pet-Friendly Activities in Jackson
1. Hike the Trails Together Jackson is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, and many of the trails are dog-friendly. Some popular options include:
- Snow King Mountain: With an elevation gain of 1,550 feet, this hike rewards hikers with unique views of the entire Teton Range and an arial view of the town of Jackson. Follow signs for the Slow Trail to enjoy a more gradual ascent, or take on the steeper Boot Pack trail for an extra challenge.
- Cache Creek Trailhead: Located just outside of downtown Jackson, this trail is perfect for a leisurely hike with your dog. The wide, well-maintained path winds through forests and along a creek, offering plenty of opportunities for your pup to cool off in the water.
- Emily Stevens Park: This 64.4-acre park in Wilson, just a short drive from Jackson, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its gravel trail takes you by the Snake River where you can see a view of the Tetons.
Due to national park regulations, pet-friendly hikes inside Grand Teton National Park are limited. Information regarding pet policies in Grand Teton National Park can be found here.
2. Enjoy a Pet-Friendly Patio After a day of adventure, relax at one of Jackson’s pet-friendly patios. Many local restaurants and cafes welcome well-behaved dogs, allowing you to enjoy a meal or a drink without leaving your pet behind. Some popular spots include:
- Snake River Brewing: This local favorite offers a spacious green space and patio where dogs are welcome. You can enjoy a craft beer and a meal while your dog relaxes by your side. Bonus: they are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.
- Bin 22: Located just two blocks off the town square, this wine bar offers a dog-friendly patio that’s perfect for enjoying delicious tapas and drinks.
- StillWest Tap Room: Watch hikers or skiers travel up and down Snow King Mountain while sipping on craft beers brewed on-site. This patio also has outdoor TVs, making it the perfect spot to cheer on your favorite teams with your pup.
3. Take a Scenic Drive Together If your dog loves car rides, Jackson offers some of the most scenic drives in the country. The Teton Park Road provides stunning views of the Teton Range, and it’s a great way to take in the beauty of the area without too much exertion. Local’s tip: take a drive along US Highway 89 from Moose Junction to Moran Junction for a chance to see herds of bison without needing a park pass. Wherever you go, sure to keep your dog safe and secure in the car during your drive.
4. Explore the Town Square Jackson’s historic Town Square is a must-see, and it’s also pet-friendly! Stroll through the square, visit the iconic elk antler arches, and explore the local shops that welcome pets. You can even get an old-time picture taken with your pooch. It’s a great way to experience the charm of Jackson while spending quality time with your dog.
Tips for Traveling with Pets in Jackson
- Leash Up: While many areas in Jackson are dog-friendly, it’s important to keep your pet on a leash unless otherwise specified. This ensures their safety and helps protect wildlife.
- Bring the Essentials: Make sure to pack everything your pet might need, including food, water, a leash, waste bags, and any medications. Jackson’s outdoor activities can be demanding, so it’s essential to keep your pet hydrated and comfortable.
- Respect Wildlife: Jackson is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, and elk. Always keep your dog under control and at a safe distance from wild animals to prevent dangerous encounters.
Ready to Plan Your Pet-Friendly Getaway?
With so many pet-friendly activities and Outpost’s comfortable accommodations, Jackson, Wyoming, is the perfect destination for a vacation with your furry friend. Book one of our pet-friendly vacation rentals today, and start planning an adventure that both you and your pet will never forget!
Best Personalized Experiences in Wyoming
Our innovative and welcoming team helps guests craft the best, personalized experiences for their Old West getaways. It’s truly no wonder that locals and tourists alike voted us gold in Best Property Management Company of JH in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. Let’s take a peek at some of Outpost’s exceptional personalized experiences and insider travel tips that make us the go-to for Jackson Hole, Wyoming vacations!
Treat yourself
Stay Outfitted with outdoor rentals, baby gear, florals, liquor, and so much more. All items are conveniently delivered pre-arrival. This personalized service is available exclusively to our guests and homeowners. Provisions, a sister company to Outpost, combines convenience and comfort all in one place. Guests have the option to book private chef dinners ($1000 minimum with advance notice), giving you a stress-free, relaxing and memorable food experience in the comfort of your rental.
Delicious dining
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is home to some exceptional restaurants. Be sure to make reservations! We don’t make them for you, but here are our recommendations for local dining:
- Fine dining: Glorietta Trattoria, Kampai, Coelette, The Kitchen
- Casual eats (reservations needed): Teton Thai, Calico, Cafe Genevieve, the Local
- Casual eats (no reservations needed): Merry Piglets, Rations at Basecamp (lunch only), or the Mangy Moose Bar
Activities abound in the valley!
Again, we highly recommend you make reservations in advance. You and yours will undoubtedly have the best recreational experiences in all of Wyoming if you follow our insider’s list below:
- Bike rentals: Hoback Sports or Wilson Backcountry (be sure to ask them for trail recommendations and conditions)
- Whitewater Rafting and Scenic Floats on the beautiful Snake River: Dave Hansen, Jackson Hole Whitewater, or Barker-Ewing
- Fly fishing: Western River Anglers or Snake River Anglers
- Eco-tours
- Paddleboard rentals
- Wildlife and Photography Tours
No reservations needed here
- Hikes: grab your bear spray, Creekside sandwich for that picnic lunch, and head out for a great day in the park
- Our favorite Grand Teton National Park day trips: Jenny Lake Loop and Bradley/Taggart Lakes
- Our top three non-national park day trips: Table Mountain, Ski Lake, and Jackson Peak*
- Swimming Holes in Grand Teton National Park: String Lake, Phelps Lake, and Jackson Lake
*For the outdoor enthusiast searching for something more off-the-beaten-path, this is a great hike in the Gros Ventre Mountains. Be sure to take a high clearance SUV as the road is rugged. Trust us, the views of the Tetons are well worth it!
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Guests love the newly expanded bike park, filled with trails for all experience levels. After a ride around the bike park, ride the tram or catch a gondola to Piste Mountain Bistro.
Seeking some mindfulness? Enjoy yoga on the deck and salute the sun with expansive views over the Teton Valley!
Get excited for spectacular views and adventures. You’ll make cherished memories for years to come.
Insider’s Guide to the Rendezvous Mountain Festival
Springtime in Jackson Hole just got better, with the return of the iconic Rendezvous Mountain Festival. After a two-year hiatus, our beloved spring music festival returns for its seventh season, ushering in spirited headliners, amicable crowds, and good vibes all around. Join us over at Outpost for two thrilling days of free concerts, and exciting spring skiing. Make sure to book your life tickets well in advance. You’ll be more than prepared to say “Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring,” alongside visitors and others in the local community, with our insider’s guide to the Jackson Hole Rendezvous Mountain Festival.
Rendezvous Mountain Festival Line-Up
The biggest music fling in town returns April 1-2, 2022, set against the picturesque backdrops of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and historic Town Square. Every year, this free outdoor festival draws in legendary music acts, like Portugal. The Man and Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats. We’re so excited to introduce (and watch) this year’s talented line-up!
Friday, April 1
Multi-platinum Fitz and The Tantrums will open the festival in Town Square, supported by folk singer Brett Dennen! Both artists have established themselves as hit-makers, consistently leaving their mark on the music industry. We guarantee that their feel-good jams will send cheerful ripples through your soul, warming you from your snow boots to your beanie.
Gates open at 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 2
Catch a passionate and soulful performance on Saturday by Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, multi-instrumental Grammy-winning musicians weaving together reggae, rock, blues, and soul genres. Supporting bands Cold War Kids and The Wailers carry their own impressive merits as global festival circuit staples. You don’t want to miss this undoubtedly memorable penultimate show!
Gates open at 4 p.m.
Free general admission is first-come, first-serve, with optional paid VIP tickets available.
Come As You Are
Rendezvous Mountain Festival brings together the best of both worlds: great music and spring skiing. Remember to book your lift tickets well in advance. Come as you are every festival night, straight from the slopes, and seamlessly blend into the sea of locals and out-of-towners. You already know where to find us locals this festival season—skiing during the day and enjoying stellar concerts in the evenings!
Stay near the Festival
Get festival ready by staying in one of our Teton Village and Town of Jackson rentals located near both event locations. These festival outposts grant you access to authentic mountain living and desired proximity to all spring concerts. See you this spring for the ultimate Jackson Hole rendezvous!
Tired of Winter? Set Your Summer Plans with Outpost Now
Outpost is accepting summer reservations, just in time for all of us looking forward to warmer days. Start shaking off the winter blues and secure your summer plans now. We know all the odds and ends of the Jackson Hole valley and are here to help you enjoy the last of the Old West.
Wyoming summers are one-of-a-kind, and we’re grateful to be in the heart of all the action, located near beautiful Grand Teton National Park. With over 200 properties to choose from, there’s a summer home for everyone at Outpost. However, vacation rental planning is just one piece of the larger vacation experience puzzle. There’s no vacation without worthwhile activities! Many in-demand Grand Teton summer activities need to be booked in advance, so let’s get started—
Guided Fly Fishing
Access all the major rivers in the Jackson Hole area when you enjoy a guided fishing trip with Fish The Fly Guide Service. The talented guides can cater to any ability level, from novice to expert. It’s a fun summer activity that takes you to scenic places around Grand Teton.
Sunrise Scenic Float
Kick your feet up and meander on the park’s Snake River during a scenic float trip! Get an early start, cruising about as the sun rises, setting the sky ablaze with gorgeous reds, oranges, and yellows. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the incredible wildlife that lives in the valley – animals are frequently seen along the riverbank at this time of day. We recommend booking with Dave Hansen or Solitude.
Sunset Wildlife Safari with EcoTours
Here at Outpost, we cherish Jackson Hole’s diverse wildlife and encourage our guests to experience it for themselves. Bask in the glorious Grand Teton ecosystem with an EcoTours Sunset Wildlife Safari. You’ll drive around the backroads, avoiding summer crowds, and be treated to uninterrupted observation of wildlife, from moose and elk to grizzly bears and bison.
Teton Views from Your Jackson Vacation Rental
Even when you’re not physically in Grand Teton National Park, our rentals in the Town of Jackson and North of Town boast stunning Teton Views. Grab a fresh cup of coffee and feel the rising sun on the back of your neck as you stand on your spacious private mountain-facing patio. Outpost has the perfect summer home bases available for reservations today!
Outpost’s Summer Quick Tips:
Road Closures
- Grand Teton National Park’s Granite Entrance park road will be closed during the summer of 2022 for maintenance. For visitors staying in Teton Village, please be aware that you will need to drive through the town of Jackson to access the park.
- If you’re coming in early summer, please note that the Jackson Hole Airport is closed April 11th – June 27th. Shuttles are available from Salt Lake City, UT, and Idaho Falls, ID, or you can enjoy a road trip out here.
Restaurant Reservations
Make sure to book restaurant reservations in advance, too! Check Resy/Open Table six to eight weeks before your vacation. We love the outdoor dining at Orsetto and Roadhouse Brewery in the Town of Jackson. Calico in Wilson is another favorite of ours. Wyoming summer nights are cool, so don’t forget a jacket!
Enjoy a Unique Spring Break in Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is a breathtakingly unique year-round destination for vacations, and spring break is no exception. Travelers come from far and wide each spring to enjoy our world-famous Wyoming powder skiing. If skiing isn’t your thing, our valley has a variety of other adventures and activities as well. The last of the Old West, Jackson Hole boasts iconic landscapes, captivating local history, and much more. Your spring break this year in Jackson Hole will be one to remember.
Outpost is here to help elevate your Jackson Hole spring break. With homes throughout the valley, our vast vacation rental portfolio will place you right in the midst of all the spring break action—or not if you are looking for a more laidback getaway. Whatever you desire, Outpost has something perfect for you! Additionally, our company works with you in mind, which is why we offer fantastic amenities and guest services. You’ll be right at home when you stay with Outpost this spring break—keep reading to learn more!
Spring Break in Jackson Hole
As mentioned, Jackson Hole is filled with many spring break activities that are perfect for you. No matter what your ideal Jackson spring break looks like, Outpost has you covered! We have compiled a few quintessential activities and amenities below.
For the ski-centric visitor:
Jackson is one of the top ski destinations in the world. Folks come from all over just to rise early and ski all day! If skiing is your main reason for visiting, we recommend staying right in the heart of the mountains at one of our many vacation rental options in Teton Village. Now that your lodging is sorted out, let’s take care of your skiing needs. Outpost has partnered with top ski resort Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) to offer money-saving Lift Ticket & Lodging packages. You save money and time when you bundle your lodging with JHMR lift tickets through our online booking engine. Your lift tickets will be in your rental upon arrival so you can start your adventure the next morning! For more up-to-date information, call us at (307) 690-4790.
For those who don’t ski:
While Jackson is a famed ski destination, those who don’t ski can still experience a worthwhile spring break. Your little ones will be awe-struck during a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, where you’ll get up close and personal with these extraordinary animals. Grab a sweet treat from our friends at Persephone Bakery before wandering around the local businesses in historic Town Square. Your trip is not complete without a photo at Jackson’s Elk Antler Arches in Town Square. These iconic landmarks were first built between 1966 and 1969. And finally, get away from it all with a day trip to our treasured Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
We’re Here to Help
Outpost is here to help with all your Jackson Hole spring break needs. We exclusively rent out baby gear, outdoor gear, and also offer grocery delivery to our homeowners and guests. From boot heaters to portable baby chairs, you’ll be prepared! Your rental items will be delivered prior to check-in and removed when you check out. Visit our Outfitted website for more details.
Find Your Home Away from Home with Outpost Vacation Rentals
Spring break in Jackson Hole will undoubtedly be one to remember! After a long day of skiing or exploring Jackson, relax in a stunning Outpost vacation rental filled with all the furnishings of home. From cozy townhomes to spacious family homes, we have a little bit of something for everyone. Book your spring break stay with us online today!
Tails and Trails
We’ve all been there: you’re packing for a day hike – grabbing energy bars, extra water and your trekking poles – and then as you’re about to head out, you see it. Or rather, you see him – your dog, your best friend and oh-so-loyal companion – waiting patiently for you next to the door. Big, brown eyes staring you down. Ears perked, questioning, pleading, waiting. A soft whimper that makes you melt with guilt.
While you may not be able to bring your pup into the National Park or even certain parts of the wilderness, there are tons of great hikes around the Tetons that will get you into some amazing places and let Rufus come along. A quick web search will offer you countless choices, but a few of our favorite dog-friendly spots include the hike to Jackson Peak (with a bonus lake part way up for swimming), Munger Mountain (down Fall Creek road with panoramas in every direction) and Phillips Canyon.
Once you’ve decided to bring your four-legged friend, there are a few simple ways to help ensure you and your dog will both have a great time out in the mountains together.
Double Check Your Terrain
Always look closely at the topography where you’re going. If you’re getting into steep terrain without a water source close by, make sure to bring extra water for both of you. If you’re hiking exposed ridgelines on a bluebird day – especially in the heat of summer – dehydration can set in fast. Since your pup can’t sweat, remember to double check the forecasted highs for the day – if it’s going to be in the 80’s, choose a hike that offers some time in a shaded canopy.
Protection from the Sun
If you’re hiking in Jackson, your base elevation is 6,300 feet above sea level. As you get into the higher mountains during summer, you may want to consider eye protection for your pup. Just like humans, UV rays can be harmful to dogs. A local Jackson company, Rex Specs, makes special goggles for dogs that protect them from UV rays – as well as from dust, sticks, rocks and any other other harmful elements that could result in an eye injury to your furry friend.
Fuel Up
Your dog needs to refuel just like you. Pack some snacks, or bring a reasonable ratio of your dog’s dry food based on how far you’re going. A few miles isn’t a big deal, but if you’re going for 3,000 feet of elevation gain and a 15-mile hike, your pup will need some food.
Trail Etiquette
One of the biggest decisions to make is whether you let your dog run off-leash or clip him in. First, check the rules of the area you’ll be visiting. If off-leash is an option and your dog has excellent recall and will return to you even when the most tantalizing animal dashes out in front of him, then you’re in the clear. But if you don’t have much hiking experience with your dog and you haven’t worked on recall in training together, or if he has a strong herding instinct, keep him leashed. Dogs that chase moose, elk or even bears are going to put themselves – and you – in danger.
First Aid
While many of us think about bringing a first aid kit for humans, most of us don’t think about the potential situations our dogs could get in miles away from help. It’s a good idea to read up on basic first aid for dogs (and yourself, too), and while there are tons of first aid dog kits on the market, a great place to start is with a quick phone call to your local vet to steer you on the right track.
If you keep these things in mind, you and your dog will be great trail ambassadors, and you’ll also be knowledgeable and safer out in terrain where the unexpected can happen. And it goes without saying – always be a responsible dog owner and scoop the poop or use leave no trace principles for your dog’s waste.
Worried your adventure might not be appropriate for your four-legged friend? Fear not! You can always opt to drop Fido at one of Jackson’s quality pet sitting and boarding locations for the day, like DogJax, where he’ll get plenty of loving attention and exercise while you’re out.
A Holiday Tradition that Helps Forests Thrive
It’s the classic Rocky Mountain Christmas; thick, soft flakes of snow drift lazily onto the roof of a cozy cabin, warm from a crackling fire and lit by sparkling lights from a beautiful Christmas tree.
There are a few options for selecting this holiday centerpiece, but a trip into the forest surrounding Jackson Hole is always more rewarding than a stop at the grocery store tree stand. This is a tradition that many families around the valley look forward to in the crisp weeks after Thanksgiving.
Small, unpaved roads wind along frozen creeks and snowy ridges into the trees outside of town. A sturdy vehicle is a must for a wintertime trip into the woods, as are plenty of warm clothes. You won’t regret your steaming thermos of hot cocoa. Leather gloves will keep your hands protected during the cutting process, which is most easily done with a hand saw. They will also keep your hands from getting sap-encrusted while pulling the tree back to your car.
Head out early in the day, leaving plenty of time to hunt for the perfect tree, and extra in case you discover an ideal spot for sledding or snowman construction. A wintertime forest is a magical place. Snow falls silently, a glittering blanket as the earth sleeps. Tracks made by tiny paws dot the pillowy tops of logs and stones.
Taking a tree from the wild is more than a wintry family adventure. When done correctly, it benefits the area’s forests and wildlife. This cherished holiday pleasure is also a way to ensure that Jackson’s forests remain healthy and strong.
“Some people worry that harvesting a tree from the forest is harmful or causes damage to the ecosystem,” says Mary Cernicek, Public Affairs Officer for the Bridger-Teton National Forest. “But it’s actually the opposite. We rely on people harvesting Christmas trees as an important part of our management plans.” Coniferous trees – pine, fir and spruce – are not only ideal holiday decorations, but can also threaten other species of trees if not managed.
These kinds of trees grow relatively quickly, and can crowd out other native trees, especially aspens. When conifers grow in aspen stands, they devour nutrients and spread thick boughs, depriving aspen saplings of sunlight. Slowly but steadily, the conifers will outcompete the aspens.
“We love letting everyone know that they’re not only getting a unique tree, they’re actually helping out the forest as well as a lot of local wildlife.”
“Aspens are preferred in these areas, primarily because of their importance to native species,” explains Cernicek. “We love letting everyone know that they’re not only getting a unique tree, they’re actually helping out the forest as well as a lot of local wildlife.” Quaking aspen provides homes and food for a spectacular array of Rocky Mountain animals: moose, elk, mule deer, black bear, porcupine, snowshoe hare, beaver, moths and butterflies, small rodents and dozens of kinds of birds.
You might be lucky enough to glimpse a few of these local forest residents on your own Christmas tree hunt, especially if you follow the recommendation and find a tree to remove from an aspen stand.
It won’t be tree farm perfect, manicured into a geometrically flawless cone. But it will be unique, and have a rugged, natural beauty.
Your living room will smell of fresh pine as you kick back in front of the fire, your fingers turning pink and sticky as you string cranberries and popcorn to drape among its boughs. Colorful packages collect beneath the branches as Christmas draws near. Fully lit and caringly decorated, the tree will not only represent the merriest time of the year, but serve as a reminder of your wonderful snowy adventure in the woods.
Visit the Jackson Hole Visitor Center at 532 North Cache to pickup a tree cutting permit and map of harvest areas.
Images © Taylor Glenn