One of the surest ways for a hotel or resort to get a guest to return again and again is to somehow manage to gather up and enhance the very best qualities of its location. Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson, Wyoming starts by owning the hands-down best view of the Teton Mountain Range of any property in the area. One of the best places to take in that view is at the ranch's comfortable, art-filled bar which is backed by a huge window that perfectly frames the dramatic, jagged peaks. At sunset the eye candy””and the outstanding wine list and swimming-pool size martinis””is irresistible.

Once the sun has dipped behind the mountains, head downstairs to the ranch's award-winning Granary restaurant for more stunning views and an ever-changing menu of elegantly prepared Wild West classics, including the best elk I've ever eaten (they don't give DiRoNa awards away for nothing). Each dish””from inventive salads to homemade desserts””is a perfect plateful of cowboy swagger and sophisticated cooking.  

And speaking of menus, the list of treatments at the resort's intimate but full-service spa makes it clear that this is a Wilderness Adventure Spa in more than name only. Many of the treatments feature natural ingredients (like muscle-relaxing arnica and super-moisturizing Mesquite Tree powder and traditional red clay) and techniques (including acupuncture) that  make each massage, facial or body treatment perfectly suited to the needs of Spring Creek guests””many of whom spend their days overdoing it on the slopes at nearby Jackson Hole or Grand Targhee ski resorts, exploring neighboring Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park or hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, biking, fishing, rafting, snowmobiling or cross-country skiing.

But because Spring Creek Ranch, itself, is located in a 1,000 acre wildlife preserve you don't have to travel far (or work too hard) to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. To ensure that all guests experience the area's abundant wildlife and unique natural beauty in comfort, the ranch has a team of naturalists on staff who take guests in specially equipped vehicles on a range of wildlife excursions, including an acclaimed four hour dawn or dusk Wildlife Safari ($95, including hot and cold beverages and snacks).

Guests on a recent Wildlife Safari were impressed with the naturalists' knowledge and delighted to receive a wildlife checklist at the end of the trip which helped them remember all of the animals (bears, wolves, moose and more) they'd spotted. And don't worry if you forget to pack your binoculars. Guests are given top of the line Brunton binoculars to use during each outing.

The area is so rich with wildlife that Spring Creek Ranch and resident naturalist Kurt Johnson recently published a Field Guide to the Natural History of Spring Creek Ranch. The 50 page booklet lists every plant, animal and bird found on Spring Creek Ranch and includes pictures and detailed (but not bio-geeky) descriptions of dozens of the superstars.  It makes a wonderful keepsake of your visit and a great gift that's sure to inspire nature-loving friends and family to book their own visit.

While Spring Creek Ranch clearly understands how to make the most of each guest's individual outdoor experience in Jackson, your indoor needs are also a top priority.  Whether you choose a spacious room or one of the ranch's two to four bedroom condos (great for families), you'll be staying in accommodations that combine the best of western style””log structures, working fireplaces, rustic décor””with luxurious touches like private balconies with views of the Tetons and in-condo saunas.

You can bet I'll be back for the view, the elk and the wonderful sense of place that Spring Creek Ranch delivers to its guests.

Rates start at $150

Spring Creek Ranch
Box 4780
Jackson, Wyoming 83001
Phone: (307) 733-8833 or (800) 443-6139

www.springcreekranch.com

In April, 2006 peripatetic journalist Karen Catchpole left her job as deputy editor of SHOP Etc. magazine in New York City, jumped into a Chevy Silverado and embarked on the Trans-Americas Journey, a three year, 70,000+ mile road trip through North, Central and South America. When she's not reviewing luxury hotels, resorts, ranches and B&Bs, she can be found enjoying the nearest campground.