Heron Pond - Colter Bay, Grand Teton National Park

This is a short, easy hike that starts from the end of the Colter Bay Parking lot near the marina. It takes you past Heron Pond and then loops back past Swan Lake. Both lakes are covered with lilies, which must be impressive in bloom because they nearly cover the surface of both lakes almost entirely. Heron Pond supposedly is a good place to see moose, although I didn’t see any on my hike. Also, if the beavers are active, you can see them working on their home on the shore of Heron Pond. 

Jackson Lake - Grand Teton National Park

Headed south from Yellowstone, Jackson Lake is the first major body of water you come across. On a placid day, the Teton Range reflects off the Lake’s calm waters. The Lake is aflutter with activity around Colter Bay and Signal Mountain lodges with boats, kayaks and canoes. 

Jenny Lake Lodge - Grant Teton National Park

For those who have stayed at a NPS lodge, you know you’re sort of roughing it a bit. At the Jenny Lake Lodge, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The lodge consists of private and semi-private cabins, with rustic timber walls, cushy chairs, down covered beds and recently renovated bathrooms (a huge upgrade over every other NPS bathroom I’ve had). Of course, you pay for the privilege, but it’s a lovely and restful setting amidst one of the most popular sites in the park. You can’t beat having such prime trails within walking distance of your cabin. Also, breakfast and a five course prix-fix meal are included, along with the excellent services at the lodge such as bikes and horseback riding. The waiters and lodge staff are excellent. You should experience it at least once, if only for a special occasion. Enjoy a glass of wine by the fire in the main cabin. You know you want to…