Grand Teton National Park
Our day began early as we left Yellowstone, aiming to beat the rush at the Grand Teton parking lots. The rising sun and the morning fog drifting off the river set a stunning backdrop as we navigated the park. As Yellowstone fades into the distance, the majestic Tetons rise before you.
Jackson Lake with the Tetons in the distance
Delta Lake Hike
We started our hike at the Lupine Meadows trailhead, a popular spot that serves as the gateway to several trails. While many hikers use this route to reach Amphitheater Lake, we opted for a less-trodden path, embarking on an unofficial trail that promised a true adventure. The beginning of the hike is relatively easy, allowing us to enjoy the surrounding beauty. As we climbed higher, the trees thinned, revealing the stunning views of Bradley and Taggart Lakes.
Along the way, we encountered some hikers who mentioned a bear and her cub had been spotted nearby, so we paused in hopes of catching a glimpse. Unfortunately, the bears remained elusive. After about three miles, we reached a junction where the official trail diverges, marking the start of the real adventure. To reach Delta Lakes, we took an unmarked path that involved a steep and challenging scramble. The trail became less defined, with loose rocks and boulders requiring careful footing.
The scramble was demanding, but the reward was worth it.
As we neared the top, the turquoise waters of Delta Lake emerged, nestled in a glacial cirque beneath towering peaks. The shore was strewn with large rocks, perfect for resting and enjoying lunch. A few brave souls dipped their feet into the icy water, but it was so cold that even a minute felt like a shock. Despite our hope for solitude, Delta Lake's secret beauty had attracted other hikers too.
After lunch and capturing breathtaking photos, we made our way back down. Heeding the ranger's advice, we stayed on the trail, and once we reached the marked path, the descent was easier and some of us even jogged down.
Sweaty and dusty, we found a spot along the glacier-melt river to freshen up before heading into Jackson, the valley’s main hub.
Jackson, Wyoming
The town retains its frontier charm with wooden boardwalks, historic buildings, and iconic antler arches. We began the evening with small bites and beers at the Roadhouse Pub & Eatery before browsing the shops. We crossed busy streets using designated flags and stopped at a liquor store offering free tastings of their collection. We sampled some of the smoothest bourbon and tequila.
Kelly and I had been here in 1995 and took a picture in front of the deer antler arches and decided to reenact the photo with Shawn filling in as the bystander.
Dinner was at Glorietta Trattoria, where we managed to snag a table without a reservation by arriving as soon as they opened. Famished from our hike, we indulged in a hearty meal of burrata, Caesar salad, bone marrow, fusilli gigante, and tagliatelle. Knowing I had a long drive back to Yellowstone, I savored a hot cup of coffee while Kelly and Shawn treated themselves to dessert along with a flight of dessert wines.
We ended the evening with an old-time photo shoot with Shawn and I cross-dressing as a madam and gunslinger, and Kelly playing the role of Investor. From serious poses to playful smiles and pretending to drink from oversized bottles, the photos had us laughing so hard we cried. Unable to choose just one, we ended up getting them all (incriminating evidence cannot be posted).
As we drove away, tired but content, we reflected on a day filled with adventure and joy.
For more pictures of Grand Teton National Park click here.
