the wild west

Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Resort has enjoyed a long-standing reputation with powder-loving skiers and riders, but as soon as Ski Magazine deemed it #1 Resort in North America, we bumped it to the top of our bucket list.

stay

Casual, quaint and cozy: Jackson’s Alpine House (from $145) epitomizes the charming nature of Wyoming. And for extra inspiration, the owners, a husband-and-wife team, are both Olympians. For something closer to the ski resort, Fireside Resort (pictured, from $289), where guests stay in one of 20 gorgeously crafted cabins by WheelHaus, is the best example of rustic-chic we’ve ever seen.

ski

With amazing snow and sweeping views, it’s easy to see why this mountain takes top honours. And while Jackson Hole Resort’s reputation is for extreme terrain and amazing backcountry, there is a learning area and a wealth of gorgeous blue cruisers.

see

Animal lovers will be well served in Jackson: Not only are deer and moose common sightings but the town is home to the National Elk Refuge. The best way to see them – and there are thousands! – is to book a 1-hour sleigh ride ($19).

après

Frickles and a locally brewed Snake River Pale Ale, anyone? Head to The Handle Bar, located at the base of the lifts in the Four Seasons Hotel, for delicious après snacks and libations.

spa

When your muscles start to painfully protest – and trust us, they will! – enlist the pros at Chill at Teton Village’s Hotel Terra. The spa’s signature treatment is an Herbal Poultice Massage ($199 for 80 minutes) that uses a combination of classic massage techniques and the anti-inflammatory properties of herbs (turmeric, lemongrass, ginger) to work wonders on aching muscles.

eat

From a drool-worthy burger to melt-in-your-mouth tataki, we instantly fell for The Kitchen’s simple, well-executed menu (with natural and locally sourced ingredients, of course) and cozy ambiance. For a bite at the foot of the ski hill, dine like a local at Teton Thai. What the family-owned restaurant lacks in size it makes up for in big, bold flavor we couldn’t get enough of.

—Christine Laroche

1-888-DEEP-SNO, www.jacksonhole.com