Teton Valley Idaho! Have you been there yet? What are you waiting for? It is beautiful, peaceful, and full of travel adventures. And one of the best places to explore while visiting the greater Yellowstone area–which surrounds Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.
Teton Valley is located on the “Idaho side” which overlooks the backside of Grand Teton National Park. It is made up of the towns of Victor, Driggs and Tetonia, Idaho and Alta, Wyoming. From here you can see the South, Middle and Grand Teton as well as Mount Moran. These are the most spectacular peaks within Grand Teton National Park which is located on the “Wyoming side” near Jackson Hole.
I have traveled to Teton Valley almost every year for over 40 years, so while I don’t know everything about the valley, I do have a lot of experience here. It is a second home to me and one of my most favorite places in the whole world.
Here are my top 15 favorite activities–in no particular order:
#1 Do you love to ski in Jackson Hole, WY? Me too! BUT, absolutely don’t forget to also include Grand Targhee on your ski vacation. It is the definition of steep and deep. Awesome!!
#2 MTB! There are plenty of trails to ride all over the valley. Grand Targhee Ski Resort, Teton Canyon, and along the Big Hole Mountains are some of our favorites places. Bike shops like Peaked Sports, Fitzgerald’s and Habitat can help you get geared up and recommend the best trails.
#3 Float down the Teton River in a kayak or SUP. Grab a boat and two vehicles, or hire a rental & shuttle service. Get out on the river and enjoy a few hours relaxing and taking in the views.
#4 Treat yourself to a huckleberry shake at the Victor Emporium or a lime freeze at the Corner Drug in Driggs. Yum!
#5 Take in the views of the backside of the Grand Tetons from the top of the chairlift at Grand Targhee ski resort.
#6 Fly fish the world famous waters of the South Fork of the Snake River, the Teton River or Henry’s Fork.
#7 Spend the 4th of July holiday in Teton Valley. The parade, music, fireworks and hot air balloon festival is one of the most enjoyable days of the year.
#8 Every Friday night all summer long, watch the Teton Valley Rodeo.
#9 Movies are so much fun when you watch them outside at The Spud Drive-In.
#10 There are more hikes in Teton Valley that you can ever do during one vacation. One that shouldn’t be missed though, is the Wind Cave up Darby Canyon. Family members of all sizes and ages can do it and the reward is a memorable cave and waterfall to explore.
#11 Bring a blanket and lawn chair and a picnic dinner (of visit one of the many food trucks), then sit back and listen to ‘Music on Main’ every Thursday night in Victor.
#12 Every horseback ride comes with a spectacular view!
#13 Just before sunset, drive about 1/2 way up Teton Canyon in Alta, WY. Pull over at the Teton View overlook and be amazed as the sunset hits the peaks.
#14 Want more outdoor activities? There are many opportunities to go golfing or cycling all around the valley and Mesa Falls is a gem.
#15 Put your feet up and relax on the deck of a cabin while enjoying a picture perfect sunset. You’re likely to catch a glimpse of a moose as he heads toward the river.
Don’t limit yourself to these top 15. My original list has almost 30 ideas on it. For instance; enjoy a great restaurant in the valley; get to know the history of the valley at the Geo-tourism Center; go rock climbing at the Teton Rock Gym; visit a festival like Plain Air, Wydaho Rendezvous and Tin Cup; and see the Warbirds museum. The point is to spend time exploring the valley and all it has to offer. We know you will love it as much as we do.
Call us at Peak to Sea Travel 303-957-6488 and we can help you plan your grand Teton vacation in Idaho and Wyoming or wherever you want to travel next.
