Jackson Attracts Seniors

 Spring, summer, fall or winter, it all works in Jackson. Senior visitors will find this neat town 12 miles south of Grand Teton National Park and 60 miles south of Yellowstone National Park.

The Town of Jackson, whose population is 9,600, is located in the northwest corner of the State of Wyoming approximately 15 miles from the Idaho border. The community, the valley and the lake were all named after mountain man, trapper and trader, David Jackson.

Approximately four miles north of Jackson, upheavals of mountains and erosion have produced an interesting formation. The works of nature have created a “Sleeping Indian,” complete with mouth, nose, flowing headdress and folded arms across the chest. With a sharp eye and a little imagination you can see the Indian on the horizon.

 Seniors Take In the National Parks

Jackson was originally populated by Native American tribes, the Shoshoni, Crow, Blackfoot, Bannock, and Gros Ventre (big belly in French). John Colter entered Jackson during the winter of 1807/1808 during the return journey of the Lewis & Clark expedition.

The area became a prime spot for trappers, and many famous mountain men traveled through the area in the early 1800s. These mountain men are responsible for many of the names in the valley including Bridger, Jedediah Smith, and Sublette.

Senior visitors will find plenty to see and do in this major gateway. Millions of tourists  flock to the area all year long to take in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.

Senior visitors often ask whether they are in Jackson Hole or Jackson. The answer is… both! Jackson Hole refers to the entire valley which is approximately 60 miles long. Jackson refers to the Town of Jackson which sits on the southern end of the Jackson Hole valley.

Seniors Find Year Round Attractions

During the winter, Jackson Hole is a wonderland of snow skiing, snowmobiling and ice-skating. When you come down off the slopes, you can choose from recreation options like dog sled tours, sleigh rides and wildlife and nature tours. Summer in Jackson Hole is all about hiking, whitewater rafting, golfing and horseback riding.

Seniors will find a number of world-class arts organizations, including the Congressionally-designated National Museum of Wildlife, the Grand Teton Music Festival, and the Center for the Arts.

The large arches of shed elk antlers at the four entrances to the town square are popular attractions. The square with all those elk horns was memorable for our family. It’s never been easier to visit Jackson Hole! Direct flight access makes flying a breeze!

Once you’re in the area, enjoy the easy to navigate highway system with access between the town of Jackson, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, Grand Teton National Park, and Yellowstone National Park.

You will come back from Jackson with tons of fond memories. jeb