The fun is not over at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort when the snow melts. Introduced this summer, the Via Ferrata, the first US Forest Service-approved one on public land, makes rock climbing more accessible to beginners, people afraid of heights, kids, and those who aren't as active. These "iron ways" assisted climbing paths were first built in Italy during WWI to help move military equipment and units through the Dolomites, and they were later restored and turned into tourist attractions by the Italian Alpine Club. Participants harness up, borrow specialty shoes (with lots of grip in the soles), clip on, and then scurry up granite rock faces and across suspension bridges using a series of iron rungs and cables. All the while, the lead guide will regale with stories about summiting the highest point on every continent and his many Everest expeditions.
And if that is still too bold for your blood, you can instead take the aerial tram, the longest continuous lift in North America, to Rendezvous Lodge. After grabbing a shockingly yummy meal at Piste Mountain Bistro (mushroom toast is a must!) or a cocktail on the open-air deck, return the 4,139 vertical feet via the Bridger Gondola or head down on foot. Tandem paragliding, mountain biking, and free outdoor concerts are also popular warm-weather offerings.
