A couple of years ago, if you would have asked if a winter destination was on my bucket list, I would have thought you were crazy. I am not a fan of cold temperatures, nor do we ski, snowboard, or enjoy playing in the snow. However, a couple of friends went to Wyoming with Adventures by Disney during the winter, and it looked amazing. The scenery was breathtaking. There were other things to do besides skiing and snowboarding. With the right clothes, we could brave it! It is not like the snow is foreign to us. We are New Englanders! Now that we have decided to go, the question became when. I was hoping for the week between Christmas and the New Year. Well, then 2020 became a horror movie, and that got put on hold. We have quite a few things scheduled for 2021, so it looks like it maybe 2022 before we go. In the meantime, here is destination number 8 of the Travel Bucket List Series- Winter in Wyoming.
How to get there? – From Boston, we will fly into Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Jackson Hole is made up of Grand Teton National Park and the town of Jackson. The majority of our time will be spent in Jackson Hole, but the first stop, Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone National Park
An hour away, Yellowstone is part of the National Parks system and was the first National Park in the United States. Yellowstone is made up of 3,500 square miles and spreads into three states, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. It has enormous canyons, forests, alpine rivers and geysers, the most famous of all, Old Faithful. It is home to plenty of wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, wolves, bison, elk, antelope, and more. Here are a few fun facts about Yellowstone.
- It is the size of Rhode Island and Delaware combined.
- It has more than half the world’s geysers (Over 500).
- There are 67 species of mammals in Yellowstone.
- There are 290 waterfalls.
- It has roughly 1,000-3,000 earthquakes a year.
We will stay at the Mammoth Hot Springs and Cabins for the first few nights of our trip. The hotel underwent an extensive renovation in 2019. It consists of premium rooms, suites, and cabins. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, and a deli.
As I mentioned above, we do not go skiing or snowboarding. So what exactly is there for us to do in Yellowstone in the winter? I found several activities.
Old Faithful Winter Day Tour- with Snowshoeing
From the hotel, board a snow coach and make your way toward the magnificent geyser. Old Faithful was the first geyser in the park to be named back in 1870. It is highly predictable and erupts every 44 mins to two hours since 2000. It is a must-see. Along the way, the coach stops for wildlife viewing and at such sights like the Fountain Paint Pots. Once at Old Faithful, you have a couple of hours to explore and take in the magnificent wonder. There are several ways to explore the basin. You may walk or grab a pair of cross country skis or snowshoes and have some fun. I am excited to snowshoe.
Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic of Yellowstone’s thermal areas. Very few visit this area in the winter, and it is touted as one of Yellowstone’s best-kept secrets. The only way to see this area in the winter is by snowmobiles or snow coach. The trees are covered in snow, the snow is deep, and from everything I read, it is all so very magical. There are several things to see here, such as
- Steamboat Geyser: The world’s tallest active geyser, In the Back Basin, you’ll find the world’s tallest active geyser. Eruptions are rare and unpredictable, so I hope we time it just right.
- Porcelain Basin: This is home to Ledge Geyser, which erupts at an angle, and the ever steaming Black Growler Vent.
- Back Basin: a forested version of the Porcelain Basin and home to the Steamboat Geyser.
Winter Wildlife Tour
As a family of animal lovers, how could we not put this tour on our list? This tour explores the Northern Range, where there are wide open grassy valleys that, in the winter, are covered with less snow than other locations in the park, making it a bit easier to get to that food source. It is home to bison, elk, coyote, wolves, eagles, bighorn, and many more.
Another must go for me while in Yellowstone is a photography tour. Using a handpicked itinerary, it takes you through Yellowstone and shows you how to capture the best photographs.
Jackson Hole
After a few action-packed days, it will be time to head back to Jackson Hole. We plan to stay at The Wort Hotel. The Wort Hotel is Jackson Hole’s finest boutique hotel. It has 55 rooms, including five sophisticated western-themed suites.
Located in the center of town, the hotel is on the list of National Registry of Historic Places. It is within walking distance of numerous shops and bars.
Things to do in Jackson Hole
Oh, what to do first? With the Grand Teton National Park and the Snake River right there, the outdoor activities are endless.
Sunset Sleigh Ride– Take a sleigh ride along the Snake River as the sun sets over the Teton Mountains. The ride includes a stop at a Tipi Camp where a roaring fire and appetizers and drinks are served.
Sleigh Ride through the National Elk Refuge– thousands of elk migrate to the refuge each year, and the sleigh ride gives plenty of opportunities to see these animals up close and personal.
Snow King Mountain– Known as the in-town playground for adults and kids alike, this mountain resort offers skiing, tubing, snowboarding, and its winter cowboy coaster. There is something to do for everyone.
Jackson Hole Playhouse – The dinner shows here are not to be missed. I hear the food and entertainment are excellent.
Iditarod-Style Dog Sled Excursion– When we were in the Yukon, we experienced summer dog sledding. Since then, I have wanted to try it in the winter. This is a must-do for my family and me.
Granite Hot Springs– Relax in the steaming, rejuvenating waters of the Granite Hot Springs. Take in the beautiful Gros Ventre Mountains and the towering pines that surround you as you float, swim, and soak in these natural hot springs.
Snowshoeing at Grand Teton National Park– The park offers a two-hour guided snowshoe hike that meets at Taggart Lake Trailhead. Listen as a range talks about winter ecology and snow science.
After seeing all that Wyoming has to offer in the winter, I know we will be inspired to come back in the summer. I guess that means the travel bucket list continues to grow. Not a bad thing, right?
Are you interested in my other bucket list trips? Check them out and leave a comment as to which one you would like to experience first.
Welcome! I am glad you stopped by. Grab a drink, sit down and get ready to explore Gatlinburg, TN, the 6th destination in my Travel Bucket List Series.
Gatlinburg is considered the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Once a dirt road, now is the most visited mountain town in the area. Incorporated in 1945, 2020 marks 75 years, and we are so excited to visit this summer and join in on the celebrations! Gatlinburg is a 14-15 hour drive from our home in Massachusetts. My husband is not a big fan of road trips. The long hours in the car are not his idea of fun. To help make the ROAD trip part of this trip enjoyable, we plan to make a couple stops both down and back. The first stop is Natural Bridge, VA.
Natural Bridge, VA, is an unincorporated community of Rockbridge County. It sits in the southern end of the Shenandoah Valley and on the edge of the Blue Ridge mountains. It is home to the enormous rock bridge, The Natural Bridge. The bridge serves as a gateway to Natural Bridge State Park. In the state park, one will find the beautiful Cedar Creek Trail and the Monacan Indian Living History Village. There is also Natural Bridge Caverns, museums, and restaurants that surround this beautiful park.
We are spending two nights in Natural Bridge. I made it easy and booked us a room at the Natural Bridge Hotel. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and close to The Nature Bridge and the Natural Bridge Caverns, it seems like the perfect place to lay our weary heads for a couple of nights..
Gatlinburg
We will arrive in Gatlinburg that Sunday and plan on spending five days/nights exploring the city, neighboring towns, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Our home for the new few days is an adorable cabin located in the heart of Gatlinburg. A friend recommended Mountain Shadow Rentals & Resort.
Here is the description of the of cabin taken directly from the website.
“Upon entering, you’ll step into a large great room with spacious living, kitchen, and dining areas. Looking up at the cathedral ceilings from either side gives you a diamond-shaped view of the exterior hillsides. The kitchen features all stainless appliances with the meal prep utensils you need to prepare a variety of meals. The range features a natural gas stovetop for the best cooking experience as well as a gas oven for baking. Directly across from the range is an island with granite countertop and sink. Owners Pat and Ruthie have taken the utmost care in stocking the kitchen with many essentials, including cookware, countertop appliances, silverware, cutlery, utensils, and dishes to make for the most pleasant cooking dining experience in your cabin. A large flat-screen Smart TV sits atop the mountain stone gas log fireplace. Spectrum cable and high-speed internet service are available. There is a closet in the kitchen with a washer and dryer for your convenience. On either side of the great room are bedrooms that are entered through beautifully custom-crafted sliding barn doors. Each bedroom has a flat-screen TV, a king-size bed, a chest of drawers, a closet, a private bathroom, one with a stand-up shower, and a combination tub & shower. From the living area step out onto an expansive covered porch with large outdoor hot tub, relaxing rocking chairs, and a high-quality gas grill. There is so much to enjoy in Cubs in the Treetops. Relax and enjoy when the oohing and aahing are over!”
I can’t wait to have my coffee on the deck looking out at the mountains.
Once in Gatlinburg, we have received a list of recommendations to try. These are our top picks.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park
The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. It is 520,000 acres with 244,000 acres of that in the state of Tennessee. There is a lot to see and do. It is known for its waterfalls that you can either hike or drive to. There are over 800 miles of trails and 400 miles of roadway. There is plenty of wildlife to view, such as deer, elk, black bears, birds, and more. The park is filled with historical buildings. Over 90 historic structures—houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools, and grist mills—have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.
Cades Cove Loop Road
Cades Cove is a valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. Some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing is here. The Cades Cove Loop Road is an 11-mile loop that circles the cove. You can go at your own leisure and pull off the road to see the sites.
Gatlinburg SkyPark & Bridge
We will take the SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain and take in the sweeping views. For more amazing views, the brave ones in the family will cross the SkyBridge. The SkyBridge stretches 680 feet across a deep valley in a single span. After the terrifying walk across the bridge, I plan on relaxing in an outdoor chair on the deck and having a drink.
Hollywood Star Cars Museum
My husband is a huge car buff so when I saw this museum listed, I knew I had to weave it into our itinerary. It may be a place that the three boys explore while I go shopping!
Ripley’s Aquarium
The aquarium is the home of a 340-foot underwater tunnel. Come face to face with sharks, sea turtles, swordfish, and other sea animals. Though currently closed due to COVID, we hope to experience their new, indoor Glass Bottom Boat Adventure!
Pigeon Forge
Alcatraz East Crime Museum is a must-see. I am a big true crime fan, and I could spend hours in a museum related to crime. We will dive deep into criminal profiles, the penal system, victims’ stories, crime prevention, forensic science, law enforcement, and our justice system. The museum is 25,000 square feet and includes over 100 interactives.
In addition to the activities above, time permitting we hope to do the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, Dollywood, and more. There is just so much to do and see.
Asheville, NC & the Biltmore Estate
Before we head home, we are going to spend two days in Asheville, NC. I have always wanted to see the Biltmore and explore the grounds. We have made a reservation at the Omni Grove Park Inn and Spa. A little pampering before a long drive home is exactly what we (I) will need.
Welcome to the 4th edition of My Travel Bucket List Series. For those of that are new to my blog, at the beginning of the year, I published my top 30 destinations I would like to see in my lifetime. You can see the complete list here. Today we are going to experience some good old southern hospitality in the city of Savannah, GA. Of course, being a beach lover, I have added a couple of days on
Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and 5th largest in the state. The city is known for its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and southern charm.
Accommodations
For this trip, we plan on staying at the Cotton Sail Hotel. Once an 1800’s cotton warehouse, the Cotton Sail is located in the historic district of Savannah and minutes away from the riverfront. Amenities include a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop bar. This boutique hotel only has 56 rooms, with either a city or a river view. I love the idea of the river view.
Length of Stay
Including our stay on Tybee Island, I plan on 5 full days. Three days will be in the city of Savannah and two days on Tybee Island. I suspect our days will be jammed packed with activities.
Things to Do & See
Tours
There is no shortage of walking tours in the city of Savannah. I have reviewed quite a few, and when the time
In addition to the walking tour, I found two other tours that sound fantastic. First is a carriage ride at night tour. How does a ride in a horse-drawn carriage under the twinklings lights of the city sound? Amazing!
Have you ever taken a ghost tour? We did here in Boston. However, I have never seen anything quite like this. A tour in a hearse?? Sign me up!
Forsythe Park
Forsyth Park is a large city park that occupies 30 acres in the historic district of Savannah. Within the park are walking paths, children’s play areas, recreational areas for soccer, basketball, tennis, and more. An interesting feature of the park is a Fragrant Garden for the blind. The garden consists of plants with scents and textures that appeal to those with limited sight.
River Street
River Street has over 75 shops and restaurants to explore. This area of the city was once cotton warehouses. River Street is where we plan on spending our evenings, looking for some yummy southern food. I think a steamboat ride will be on the itinerary as well.
Wormsloe Historic Site
Here lie the ruins of Wormsloe, the colonial estate of Noble Jones. These ruins are the oldest standing structure in Savannah. Mr. Jones was many things, including command of a company of Marines charged with defending the Georgia coast from the Spanish. The Jones family owned Wormsloe until the state of Georgia acquired it in 1973.
In the park, visitors can interact with costumed guides and view a museum with artifacts found at Wormsloe. There is a nature trail that leads to the tabby ruins over to the Colonial Life Area. This area is similar to a living museum where guides in period dress exhibit the tools and skills of colonial Georgia.
Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on Cockspur Island, between Savannah and Tybee Island. It was during the American Civil War, that the Union Army successfully tested rifled cannons in combat, the success of which rendered brick fortifications obsolete. Sights not to miss are Battery Hambright, John Wesley Memorial, Construction Village, and the cemetery.
Tybee Island
I can’t think of a better way to end a few days of sightseeing than some beach time. Tybee Island is located off the coast of Savannah. It is both a city and a barrier island. We plan on calling Beachside Colony and Resort our home for the remainder of our trip. The only beachside resort on the island.
I would love to know, have you been to Savannah? Is there anything I should add to my list?
Check out the previous editions of my Travel Bucket List series.
