We were determined to get a spot at Jenny Lake trailhead this morning and managed to do so by arriving at 8:00. They run a very smooth and frequent boat ferry system to shuttle hikers across the lake to Inspiration Point Trailhead. The lake was super smooth when we headed out, but the sky looked ominous and we got a few sprinkles of rain on us that morning. On the way up the trail, we saw Hidden Falls, then got up to Inspiration Point which looks east and down over Jenny Lake. Many people stop here, but there is a big trail network in that area and we decided to continue up Cascade Canyon and back into the valley. It is one thing to admire the Grand Tetons from afar. It is quite another to actually start hiking amongst the jagged granite peaks. I'm really happy we had this experience of being actually IN the Tetons. We also got to see a couple moose off the trail which made my day. We were also passed by the NPS mule train on its way to do work deeper in the mountains. We stopped at Jenny Lake Lodge after the hike and enjoyed the well-kept log structure. Charlotte and I relaxed in rocking chairs on the porch while Edison and Reed played chess in front of the giant fireplace. It doesn't have a lake view, however, and the accommodations are in cabins behind the lodge. It looked like a fun area to spend the day playing on Jenny Lake or String Lake, but we were not set up for that.
We went back to the resort to chill and I caught up on work. Charlotte and I went thrifting and the boys and I went to the pool. We walked to Snake River Brewery for a yummy dinner. Then it was time for the Jackson Hole Rodeo - one of the highlights of our trip. It was the perfect evening to watch the cowboys and cowgirls compete for cash prizes in all the usual rodeo events. It was the first rodeo for the kids and they really enjoyed it and found it exciting. I was so happy I was able to share this quintessential aspect of Americana with them and we had a blast. There might be more rodeos in our future! If so, I definitely need to get some real cowgirl boots!
What an awesome family vacation! My cup is full. I'm so happy we were able to share in this big adventure together!
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