Recreation in Jackson There are few places in America that offer the variety of multi-seasonal activities found in the Jackson Hole area. Travelers can plan their excursions around activities ranging from river rafting in the summer to skiing during the winter. To transform recreation from physical activity to delight, visitors to the area have access to some of the most beautiful territory anywhere. Summer visitors especially enjoy the thrill of white water rafting and kayaking along the Snake River rapids. There is no need to worry about snakes. The river's name derives from trappers' misinterpretation of Shoshone sign language which meandering motions indicated their tribal name rather than a gesturing imitation of a snake. Nevertheless, trappers thought the hand motions referred to the river, and the name stuck. This story does remind the thoughtful visitor to always choose an activity with attentiveness to reasonable caution. Wyoming's terrain and wildlife may be enjoyed or damaged according to the degree of care and respect given by visitors. Poor planning or failure to link skill with activity can harm both the visitor as well as the area visited. In addition to canoeing and rafting tourists live to come to this area to fish the Jackson area's streams and lakes. Fly fishermen can find a number of shops to serve their sport before they seek those special areas of peace it demands. Other water activities include windsurfing on Jackson, Yellowstone, or Slide Lakes. Swimming in these areas is only for the very hardy, but if you like a warm soak you can go to Granite or Astoria Mineral Hot Springs to pamper the muscles you might have overworked during those long hikes or mountain biking exertions. It's fine to consider a gentle walk while viewing the Tetons and other astonishing scenic areas as an enjoyable recreational activity. No matter what your age, physical condition, or skill level, the Jackson area has plenty to offer. Some visitors are drawn to winter recreation, the most noteworthy being skiing, both downhill and cross-country. Jackson Hole, Snow King, and Grand Targhee ski resorts attract downhill skiers, and cross-country skiers have thousands of square miles from which to choose. Snow boarding has also become popular. Other winter visitors enjoy old fashioned, horse-drawn
sleigh rides and ice skating in both Wilson and Jackson. |
