Grand Teton National Park's Colter Bay Village
Variety of Lodging & Activity Options in Jackson Hole
Apr 16, 2009
At the Northern end of Grand Teton National Park, in Wyoming’s Jackson Hole valley, the seasonal Colter Bay Village offers perhaps the widest variety of lodging and activities in the park. Operated by the Grand Teton Lodge Company, Colter Bay opened in 1956 and is one of four “concession” sites run by GTLC.
Proximity to Yellowstone Makes Colter Bay a Good Choice
Colter Bay’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park, America’s first and most revered park, is just one of the things that make it a wise choice for visitors to the Jackson Hole area. The southern entrance to Yellowstone (South Gate) is just 15 miles to the North, while the town of Jackson lies 45 miles to the South of the village.
Lodging in Colter Bay Village runs from the historic to the rustic. The only type of room the village does not offer is the resort/hotel type (of which a variety can be had just 5 miles away at Jackson Lake Lodge).
Historic Cabins, Tent Cabins and Campgrounds
All of Colter Bay’s lodging is geared to the outdoor experience, but that doesn’t mean one can’t have a roof overhead, and a historic one at that. Many of the 166 log cabins available were originally pioneer cabins scattered throughout the valley. They come in a variety of sizes and prices, but each offers a unique experience. The cabins are located within walking distance of the two restaurants and other services (see below).
Two campgrounds provide over 350 sites for both tent and RV camping. These are fairly standard campground loops, with fire rings and picnic tables, but the view from those closest to Jackson Lake is anything but standard.
For a truly unique experience, why not try a cross between a tent and a cabin? Yes, they are called tent cabins, and Colter Bay Village has dozens of them, on a ridge overlooking the rest of the village, the majestic Tetons hovering to the West.
A tent cabin is a semi-permanent structure, approximately 12'x16', with three log walls, one canvas wall and "roof." Inside each are 4 bunks, a shelf, and a wood stove. Outside, but undercover, are a picnic table and a fire-ring/grill. The village-within-a-village has restroom facilities/showers, extra bedding rental, and its own community feel. Best of all, they are reasonably priced.
Numerous Outdoor Activities Found at Colter Bay Village
Activities abound in Colter Bay Village. The marina is the largest on Jackson Lake, and offers boat rentals and guided lake cruises. The stables offer a variety of horseback trips. Several hiking trails begin at Colter Bay, including the 7-mile Hermitage Point trek, great for spotting moose, among other creatures.
In the center of Colter Bay Village, between the various lodgings, is the quarter-mile long stretch of amenities that will round out the visitor's experience, take care of whatever needs remain after a day or three in the fresh, high-country air. Showers, a laundromat, full-service station, and stores are found in this area.
The Colter Bay General Store carries just about everything the visitor needs, doesn’t need, or may have forgotten. Gifts, ranging from outdoor gear to tourist kitsch, film, batteries,postcards, and much more. The adjacent grocery store is as well-stocked as your home supermarket, including a deli, fresh produce and baked goodies.
Colter Bay’s two restaurants, The Chuckwagon and the John Colter Grill provide sit-down family meals or quicker grab-to-go food, respectively.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the Colter Bay Visitor Center sits at the southern end of this central area, just above the marina, looking out over Jackson Lake. This is not only a necessary stop for all the answers one requires, but contains a fine Native American museum. Daily & evening ranger-led programs originate from the visitor center as well.
To learn more, or make reservations, visit the Grand Teton Lodge Company website.
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