We understand that some clients desire to travel and are also looking for drive-able destinations. This is why we have been exploring premier locations on the Mainland USA that may be of interest to you!
This month our very own Melanie Panther explored both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks while enjoying hiking and her passion for amateur photography (all pictures in this post were taken by her). Now, over to Melanie!
This was my first post-COVID trip and I was mindful of the requirements set forth by the Wyoming Department of Health. While there were a couple of locations on this trip where several people gathered (think Jenny Lake & Old Faithful) there are many additional things to do in these parks that do not require you to be around large crowds. I loved that combining both National Parks – Grand Teton and Yellowstone, was easily obtainable in the same visit.
Self-Drive Tour
We began our exploration by downloading a self-drive tour app covering both parks. This way we felt like we were on a guided tour but within the safety of our own vehicle! We followed their advice, stopping at the best viewpoints and supplementing our driving voyage with plenty of hikes to enjoy nature to the fullest.
Our Favorite Places to Stay
There are two Virtuoso resorts we recommend in the Jackson, WY area for exploring one or both National Parks. When booking these resorts with us you qualify for additional value-added benefits at no charge to you!
If you’re looking for an intimate feel and smaller resort, try Amangani. This 40-suite, three-story resort is set on the cliff-edge overlooking meadows, grazing land and the Snake River, minutes from the town of Jackson. Amangani also offers four private home rentals and is located on the fringes of Grand Teton National Park. The resort is contemporary and stylish with high ceilings and large picture windows, warm havens mirroring their magnificent natural setting.
Our other recommendation is Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole located in Teton Village. The 156 guest rooms, including 18 suites and 32 residences, are generously sized and capture the spirit of a luxurious mountain hideaway, with natural wood and stone finishes and comfortable, residential-style furnishings. Whatever room you’re staying in, natural beauty sits just outside. Their valley-view rooms show off sweeping vistas of the Gros Ventre mountain range and verdant Jackson Hole valley, while mountain-view rooms let you look in on the ski hill. This alpine mountain resort offers the perfect mix of rustic adventure and luxury accommodations.
Park Activities
It took a full day to explore the main loop of Grand Teton National Park with multiple viewpoint stops at lakes, the Snake River, and Signal Mountain. After the tour we decided upon which hiking trails to explore. Notes & Tips: If hiking be sure you are properly prepared for spending time in nature. This entails choosing trails that match your experience level and always carry bear spray. Some areas of this park do not have cell service.
After Grand Teton, we then headed north to Yellowstone National Park for three full days of exploration and hiking. This is the world’s first national park, known as the “Serengeti of the West” for its abundant wildlife, including bison, bear, wild horses, and elk.
During our exploration of Yellowstone from Grand Loop Road we saw several erupting geysers; a grand canyon with pink, pastel yellow and orange walls with a majestic waterfall; an abundance of colorful hot springs and a mud volcano. There are so many things to do here and it could take several days to explore everything on your wish list!
We also enjoyed hiking the trails in this park. As mentioned before, please make sure when hiking that you are properly prepared for spending time in nature, choosing trails that match your experience level, and carry bear spray. Again, cell service is very limited.
Visitors can view the park from the comfort of their vehicle and also take a rest at one of the many roadside picnic areas. All the main attractions are easily accessible from Grand Loop Road.
When to Go
The parks are open year-round. Jackson Hole has long, cold winters; snow and frost are possible any month.
Mid-April, May & June – Mild days and cool nights alternate with rain and snow.
July & August – Warm days and cool nights prevail, with afternoon thundershowers common.
September, October & November – Sunny days and cold nights alternate with rain and occasional snowstorms.
December to mid-April – Between storms the days are sunny and nights are frigid. Snow blankets the mountains and valley.
Visit NPS.gov for current updates and COVID restrictions.
Plan Your Trip
If you have any questions about planning your next exploration or the fabulous resorts mentioned above, we’d love to help! If you’re ready to get pricing and learn about our exclusive upgrades through our proud affiliation with Virtuoso, please request a quote today.
The Remarkable Honeymoons Team
Luxury Travel Designers
1-866-614-1803
request@remarkablehoneymoons.com
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