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BEST OF JACKSON HOLE 2020
On Two Feet: Running Your Way Through Teton Trails By Shannon Sollitt
Photo: Dutch Simpson
Trail running is one of the more grueling and rewarding activities you can do on two feet. The destinations are gratifying, yes, but they are just the cherry on top of a beautiful, blooming relationship with distance running. Whether you’re training for a race or just trying to go further in the mountains, the process is demanding, it is painful, but it is oh-so-satisfying. And there’s no better place to explore it than Jackson Hole. Its abundant alpine trails offer endless options for scenery, elevation gain, and distance. Of course, you’ll need the right shoes. Skinny Skis (Silver-Best Gear Shop) in downtown Jackson carries some of the top brands in the industry, from Hoka One One to Brooks to Asics and more. Once you’re appropriately laced up, the options for trail runs are limitless. Here are some local favorite trail runs to work into your schedule:
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FOR SHORTER RUNS TAGGART LAKE
This is the perfect run to get your legs back under you after a long, snowy winter. The 3.8-mile round-trip trail takes you to an alpine lake with stunning views of the Teton Range. Climb 413 feet on the way up and run through lush forest and alpine meadows until you reach the lake, then cruise back to the trailhead after a
GT NP
GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
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quick dip (if you’re brave), photo-op and snack.
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FERRINS
The Cache Creek (Silver-Best Biking) trail system offers plenty of choose-your-ownadventure routes, but Ferrins is the most bang for your buck. It’s a 2.2-mile out-and-back with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, or you can continue on into Wilson Canyon or to the Snow King summit via Skyline Trail. We recommend starting at Sink or Swim to add a little more distance and a fun, rolling traverse. It is a shared trail, so while hikers and runners technically have the right of way, always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for mountain bikers.
BT NF
MUNGER MOUNTAIN
Munger Mountain is one of the valley’s most colorful spots if you time it right! In spring and early summer, wildflowers dominate the landscape. Fall colors are equally as aweinspiring. But it’s a great run no matter when you do it. Be sure to stop and take in the views at the top of Wally’s World.
BT NF
FOR ELEVATION WILDFLOWER TRAIL
Hard work with a high reward. The Wildflower Trail at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort climbs from the base of JHMR to the top of the Bridger Gondola. It’s only 4 miles if you do
BRIDGER-TETON NATIONAL FOREST
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SNOW KING MOUNTAIN AREA
