Teton Valley, Idaho Recreation

Life For Teton Valley Real Estate Owners Abounds In Recreation

With miles of paved and groomed paths all year long, Teton Valley real estate owners technically don't need a car – they can just hike, bike or ski. Of course a car is convenient for plying the 20 miles of highway that accesses dirt roads and trailheads on both sides. Each town in Teton Valley, Idaho, is proud of their completely original gear shop for outdoor needs and swapping adventure stories.

Grand Targhee Resort was the first to capitalize on Teton Valley's resources and it has grown to accommodate family-style tourism while representing Teton Valley's focus on the outdoors. Recognized internationally for almost 2,000 acres of terrain and 15k of skate and cross-country trails, Grand Targhee Resort hosts lift-access downhill mountain biking and horseback riding. The same kinds of pursuits exist just about anywhere along the two mountain ranges – the Tetons and Big Holes. Trails branch in all directions for mountain bikers and hikers. Wildflowers in this locale only compete visually with views from the top of 12,000 and 13,000 foot peaks.

Golf courses seem to be the newest standard in Teton Valley ID, as they mesh well with the fertile valley and still maintain a sense of open space. The Links is the longest established, just outside of Tetonia. Teton Springs Resort, with a Byron Nelson designed course, accommodates golfers at the south end of the valley. A Hale Irwin designed, reversible course is the focal point at Teton Reserve. Premiere courses will draw attention in two other high end golf communities by 2010. Because many second homeowners within the Teton Valley real estate market have come to set the pace in this region, their interests are increasingly represented.

Besides playing outdoors, owners of Teton Valley real estate and local residents – dogs, children, athletes, retirees and even farmers – love the genuine sense of community that prevails at choice community events. The Teton Valley Summer Festival, a hot air balloon centered event, celebrates for seven days in early July. In addition to gaping at the delightfully colored images in the sky, Teton Valley real estate owners attend the fiddling contest, community dinners, rodeos, and a wildflower walk. The John Coulter Run in August raises money for local non-profits when guests and owners of Teton Valley real estate come to marathon, run, and walk in this choice destination.

As unlikely as it sounds in this land-locked spot, the Crab Fest and Dessert Auction in January bring both Teton Valley and Jackson Hole real estate owners out in force. Again, Teton Valley is a place where community creates its own diversion with originality and an increasing touch of cultivation. The Idaho Film and Television Institute highlights the artistic focus that continues to find a niche in the valley. Spud Fest has long been a classic local event inspired by the iconic drive-in theater just outside of Driggs. The Institute, under the tutelage of Dawn Wells, best known as Mary Ann of Gilligan’s Island, and other Hollywood industry professionals are developing an active education agenda to mentor new and established artists in film and television.

Grand Targhee started a music revolution in both Teton Valley and Idaho. Now in its 20th year, the Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival hosts big names for mountainside fiddling and picking in August. And Targhee Fest in July shows an impressive list of live blues, folk and Americana. Driggs picks up the beat with Music on Main every Thursday in July and August. These events are indicative of the way people get involved. Many actively volunteer in youth-focused and community sustainability projects as well.

Victor’s favorite local hang out, the Knotty Pine Tavern, has a year-round calendar of music. Growing into a downtown hub, people kick back in the quasi-courtyard drinking brews, grabbing a bite, and socializing. A few other local establishments speak to evening recreation whether it’s watching sports or just taking a break before heading home. Furthermore, restaurants and even retail shops are so full of character here it’s hard to resist their appeal – from Italian, to whopping pizzas and burgers to the eclectic Miso Hungry Café which also offers cooking classes. For a touch of class, owners of Teton Valley real estate upgrade to the Warbirds Café at the airport for a “flight plan” of international cuisine. Some drive over to Jackson Hole, less than 30 minutes away, for a night of symphony, theatre or gourmet dining.

Teton Valley communities distinguish themselves with a fun balance of working commuters, second home and real estate owners, and old-timers. Each have their own agenda, bolstering the town’s offerings with their influence. Thus, there is something for everyone looking for a unique region within the Jackson Hole real estate market.