After our hike we rode the Bridger Gondola up to The Deck (name of the outdoor bar) which is 9095 ft. above sea level. The Deck is only open from July 4 until September 10 due to the weather at that altitude. The 15-minute ride up to The Deck is complimentary (a ride on the aerial tram costs $25). Even though the gondolas are much smaller than the tram car (6 passengers as compared to 100), the ride was still smooth with a gentle swaying after each pole along the way. We were able to see the ski runs, some of which were very rocky or covered with tree stumps, but no wildlife during our ascent to the top. In the winter, there is enough snow that the rocks and tree stumps are buried. The white square in the upper left of the picture is the far right side of the station at the top of the gondola ride. I'm guessing "Poma" is the name of the manufacturer of the gondola ride.
The view from the Deck, overlooking the Snake River and the Jackson Hole valley, were fantastic. Unfortunately, our camera could not do the view justice.
The sign just beyond the deck gives directions to the various ski lifts and ski runs near the top of the resort. I was comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt because of the warmth of the sun's rays, even at 5 pm.
The beer has finally arrived so we sipped and enjoyed sitting at 9095 feet - what a grand place for happy hour. What appears to be a white space ship in the background is the roof of the station at the top of the gondola ride where the passengers disembark. Notice how barren the land is beyond the gondola station.
The building to the left of the Deck houses a gourmet restaurant during the summer and serves as a ski shop and warming station during the winter.
The ride and the views were priceless, even though our drinks were paid with Visa and not MasterCard.
Trivia fact for the day: The valley between the mountains is called Jackson Hole while the town is called Jackson.
That happy hour looks like it could rival the Snake River Brewery. We considered doing this several days but were never by Teton Village at the right time, but after seeing your photos I wish we would have made it a priority. thanks for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteP.S. The damage on Scott's arm from the alpine slide has finally scabbed over but he still has a long way to go with the healing process. I hope that someday he can recall his wounds without grimacing, reminds me of your tumble many years ago.