Hello, fellow travelers! It’s Ann here.
You know, as a mom, I’m always thinking about the kinds of memories we’re creating as a family. The daily routines are wonderful, of course, but there’s a special kind of magic that happens when you step completely outside of them. It’s the feeling of shared discovery, of seeing a look of pure awe on your loved ones’, that truly sticks with you. For me, travel is the ultimate way to create those core memories, to build our family’s story one incredible adventure at a time.
Lately, I’ve been captivated by the idea of journeys that offer a powerful contrast, trips that take you from one breathtaking landscape to a completely different, yet equally stunning, one. I’m so excited to tell you about an itinerary that does just that—a journey from the sun-drenched, secret-filled canyons of the desert to the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the mountains. It’s an adventure for the soul, a chance to explore uncharted territories both in the world and within yourself. So, pack your spirit of adventure, and let’s dive into the wild heart of the American West.
The Desert Sanctuary: Gateway Canyons Resort
Our first destination feels like stepping onto another planet, a hidden gem tucked away in a corner of Western Colorado that I promise you’ll never forget. It’s called Gateway Canyons Resort and it is, without a doubt, one of the most unique places I have ever had the pleasure of visiting. Nestled at the convergence of five majestic canyons, the resort was founded by John Hendricks, the visionary behind the Discovery Channel. That alone should tell you something—this is a place built on a foundation of curiosity, exploration, and a deep respect for the natural world.
From the moment you arrive, you feel the profound silence and grandeur of the place. The stunning red rock walls of the canyons rise up around you, painted with the colors of a thousand sunsets. The architecture of the resort itself is a masterclass in harmony, with adobe-style casitas and lodges that blend seamlessly into the landscape. It feels less like a hotel and more like a luxurious, thoughtfully designed outpost for explorers.
We chose one of the Stargazer Casitas, and I cannot recommend it enough. After a day of adventure, we’d sit out on our private patio, which featured a fire pit and our own hot tub, and just look up. The clarity of the night sky here is absolutely breathtaking, with the Milky Way painted across the darkness in a way you just don’t see in the city.
But the real heart of Gateway Canyons Resort is the adventure. This isn’t a place for passive observation; it’s a place that invites you to get out there and do. Their “Driven Experiences” are world-class. My husband was like a kid in a candy store when he saw their fleet of high-performance vehicles. We took a UTV tour that had us navigating winding red dirt trails, kicking up dust as we explored the dramatic geology of the canyons up close. The guide was fantastic, stopping to point out ancient petroglyphs and share stories of the area’s history, from the dinosaurs that once roamed here to the outlaws who sought refuge in these very canyons.
For a truly exhilarating experience, you can even get behind the wheel of a Pro-Baja racing truck on a professionally designed track. It’s a rush of adrenaline that is perfectly balanced by the serene beauty of your surroundings.
If you prefer a slower pace, the options are just as amazing. One morning, we went on a guided horseback ride, following our guide along the base of the towering Palisade rock formation. There’s something so timeless about exploring the West on horseback, and it gives you a completely different perspective on the scale and beauty of the land. You can also explore miles of hiking trails, go kayaking on the Dolores River, or even try your hand at sport shooting.
One of the most special things about this resort is its dedication to learning. They have an on-site “Curator of Curiosity” who helps you understand the incredible history of the land you’re standing on. We spent a fascinating afternoon on a paleontology tour, searching for and finding real dinosaur fossils and tracks. It was an incredible experience to connect with such a deep and ancient history—a hands-on lesson that my family will be talking about for years.
After a full day of exploration, the resort is the perfect sanctuary for relaxation. The Spa at Gateway is a tranquil haven where I enjoyed a wonderful massage that eased every muscle. For dinner, you have fantastic options. We loved the casual atmosphere at Paradox Grille, perfect for a hearty meal after a day of hiking.
The Mountain Majesty: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
As much as we fell in love with the fiery soul of the desert, another call was whispering on the wind—the call of the mountains. Trading the vast, warm canyons for the crisp, cool air and soaring peaks of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, felt like stepping into a completely different world. The dramatic, jagged peaks of the Teton Range are an iconic sight, a symbol of the untamed American wilderness.
Nestled right at the base of the world-famous Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village are two properties that offer the perfect basecamp for your alpine adventures: Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Teton Mountain Lodge. While they sit side-by-side, each offers a distinct and wonderful experience, allowing you to choose the perfect mountain escape for your style.
Modern Eco-Luxury at Hotel Terra Jackson Hole
If your taste leans toward sleek, sophisticated design with a strong commitment to sustainability, then Hotel Terra Jackson Hole is the place for you. This LEED-Silver certified hotel is a stunning example of modern mountain luxury. The lobby is bright and inviting, with artful touches and a vibrant energy.
The rooms are a dream. We were immediately drawn to the floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly framed the mountain views, making the landscape a living piece of art in our room. The design is clean and contemporary, with natural materials, cozy gas fireplaces, and absolutely luxurious bathrooms with heated floors and deep soaking tubs—an absolute gift after a long day of hiking or skiing.
In the winter, the location is unbeatable. It offers ski-in access, and the convenience of the ski valet service is a game-changer. You just walk out the door, and you’re steps from the tram and lifts that will whisk you up to some of the most legendary ski terrain in North America. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of clicking into your skis and starting your day in the heart of the action.
But Jackson Hole is just as magical in the summer, and Hotel Terra Jackson Hole is the perfect launchpad. You are minutes from the entrance to Grand Teton National Park, an absolute jewel of the National Park system. We spent a day driving the scenic loop, pulling over constantly to take photos of the breathtaking vistas. I’d highly recommend the hike to Taggart Lake; it’s relatively easy and rewards you with stunning views of the Tetons reflected in the crystal-clear water. We were even lucky enough to spot a moose grazing peacefully near the trail!
Back at the hotel, wellness is a top priority. The Chill Spa is an intimate, serene space perfect for unwinding. And you absolutely cannot miss the rooftop infinity hot tub. Soaking in the warm water while looking out over the slopes and the valley below is an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s the perfect spot to watch the alpenglow paint the peaks at sunset.
For dining, Il Villaggio Osteria, located right in the hotel, is a culinary delight. It serves authentic, rustic Italian cuisine in a warm and bustling atmosphere. Sharing a delicious pizza and a bottle of wine there was the perfect way to end a perfect day in the mountains.
Rustic Grandeur at Teton Mountain Lodge
Right next door, Teton Mountain Lodge offers a different, yet equally enchanting, mountain experience. If Hotel Terra is sleek and modern, Teton Mountain Lodge is the embodiment of classic, grand alpine style. From the moment you step into the soaring lobby with its massive river rock fireplaces and warm wood beams, you feel like you’ve arrived at the ultimate mountain lodge. The ambiance is one of rustic elegance and cozy comfort.
The accommodations here are wonderfully spacious, with many suites offering full kitchens, stone-clad fireplaces, and private balconies. This makes it an especially fantastic choice for families or for those planning a longer stay. It truly feels like a home away from home, with all the thoughtful touches you need to settle in and feel comfortable.
Like its neighbor, the lodge boasts an incredible ski-in/ski-out location, making it a skier’s paradise in the winter. The staff is warm and attentive, always ready to help with gear or offer tips on the best runs of the day.
In the summer, the adventure concierge can arrange a huge variety of experiences. Imagine a guided fly-fishing trip on the legendary Snake River or a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure through the canyon. For a truly unforgettable view, take the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram right from the village to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. At over 10,000 feet, the 360-degree views of the Tetons, the valley, and the surrounding wilderness are simply awe-inspiring.
The wellness offerings at Teton Mountain Lodge are also top-notch. The SpaTerre is a luxurious sanctuary with a comprehensive menu of treatments inspired by global traditions. And yes, it also features a spectacular rooftop hot tub—because in Jackson Hole, taking in the view is an essential part of the experience!
When it’s time to eat, Spur Restaurant & Bar is the lively heart of the lodge. It’s known for its vibrant après-ski scene and its delicious, mountain-inspired cuisine. The menu is elevated yet comforting, focusing on local and sustainable ingredients. It’s the kind of place where you can gather with friends and family, share stories from your day’s adventure, and enjoy a fantastic meal in a warm, welcoming environment.
A Journey to Remember
Looking back on this desert-to-mountain adventure, I’m filled with such a sense of gratitude. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a journey that connected us more deeply to nature and to each other. From the fiery, ancient canyons of Colorado to the majestic, wild peaks of Wyoming, we collected moments that are now woven into the fabric of our family’s story.
These are the trips that change you, the ones that remind you of the incredible beauty and wonder that exists in the world. So, whether you hear the call of the sun-drenched canyon or the whisper of the alpine wind, I hope you’ll answer. The adventure is out there, just waiting to become a part of your story.
Happy travels,
Ann
