A Safari of Learning Through one of America’s Last Frontiers

There’s more to the American West than cowboys, Native American history and horses. If you get far enough out, there are opportunities to view species of North American wildlife in natural habitats, view constellations with an astronomer in unspoiled night skies, or hike and run along challenging trails. For these reasons alone, Jackson Hole is regarded as the home of the “American Serengeti.” Cheyenne, meanwhile, offers visitors a special opportunity to encounter the mythic bison.

Jackson Hole © 2006 Four Seasons Hotels Limited. All Rights Reserved.

In addition to ski season, the sky is literally the limit when it comes to outdoor adventure at The Four Seasons Jackson Hole. The property has sussed out a prime star viewing location in Grand Teton National Park. After snacks, beverages and a spectacular sunset, guests can view galaxies, comets, nebula and double stars, planets, the moon and other celestial sites with the property’s state-of-the-art,12-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes and commentary from a noted astronomy expert.

Another excursion worth the splurge is a fly-fishing expedition, daytrips to Yellowstone National Park and exclusive and customized four-hour “safaris” within Grand Teton National Park, the Bridger Teton National Forest and the National Elk Refuge. The Four Seasons’ dedicated naturalist team take participants into select locations to safely and comfortably view the magnificent creatures (elk, moose, mule deer, bison, bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, bald eagles, river otters, trumpeter swans, owls and other rare birds) in their natural habitats. Between sightings, the guides offer fascinating insights into Wyoming’s flora and fauna, geology and history of its significant ecosystem.

Jackson Hole © 2006 Four Seasons Hotels Limited. All Rights Reserved.

In addition to the Four Seasons, other companies offer safaris in the parks near Jackson Hole. Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris offers numerous packages that include several multiday, specialized safaris and photo safaris and workshops. Backcountry Safaris has a team of young, energetic guides whose observations and knowledge will inspire kids and teens interested in science and wildlife to follow in their footsteps.

Near Cheyenne, visitors can sign up for one of seven daily Bison Train tours departing from Terry Bison Ranch. The hour-long experience takes guests through a scenic pasture full of grazing bison, where participants can then feed the bison out of their hand from the side of the train. Guests will also see ostriches, camels and other farm animals.

Beyond the train, families can experience an authentic and more rustic side of Wyoming at Terry Bison Ranch. Accommodations include sites for RV parking, camping and cabin rentals, and on-site activities include guided horseback rides for those over 8 years old, pony rides for kids 2–8, ATV tours with guides and several ride-and-dine packages.