Jim & Tammy,

What do you plan to do while in Jackson? Hiking, photography, wild life viewing? REalxing, spas? October is pretty with the fall colors, but you should be prepared for cold nights and the possibility of an early snow storm. I would go early Oct, but not late. Leaves will be gone and too cold at the end of Oct.

The properties you mention are not in town, so just a bit of a drive to restaurents, shops and a little entertainment/nightlife. I have not checked any of these recently, as they have always been far above my budget. Are they really within your budget during October?

They are all close enough to see Grand Teton Natl Park, but not Yellowstone. The south entrance to Yellowstone would be about a 2 hour drive one way. But you don't say if you have been out to the area before.

Thank you for your reply Dayle. We've never been to this area before so it will be our first adventure. I did hear there's never a bad time to visit! We love the colder temps, so that won't be a problem. Plan on doing alot of relaxing, wildlife venues, hiking, etc. We will have a rental car. The reason for booking the mid-later part of October is the rates drop for most hotels by 1/2 since it's off-season. We also prefer off-season so it won't be as packed with tourists (like us!). We still plan on visiting Yellowstone, and may consider even staying a night at one of the lodges right in that park (maybe start our vacation there and then move to Jackson Hole the next 5 nights). Still in the early planning stages, that's why I'm asking for any advice that might help.

Check the out the Yellowstone hotels now. While some will still be open in mid-October, many start closing in the beginning of the month for the season as do the general stores and other buildings in the park.

Good luck planning your trip

Thank you Taitai.

JimTammy,

So how long do you have for your trip? 2 weeks?

If you have a decent amount of time, then definitely use 2 bases. Yellowstone is HUGE and takes days to see. Drving up, seeing a few geysers and staying overnight will not be enough. You probably want at least 4 or 5 nights IN Yellowstone. You will be driving longer distances to see it if most of the lodges are closed.

You can get a good feel for Yellowstone in a day or two. the new Old Faithful Lodge is beautiful and open all winter. I think one or two nights in the park is plenty in October, and you'll be glad you visited it. The drive from Jackson is spectacular...2 hours of dramatic landscapes and maybe even some wildlife viewing.

Thank you Dayle & roundthebend. We have 7 nights. Planned on 2 days at Yellowstone and the remaining 5 in Jackson Hole. Anyone stayed at the Rustic Inn or Spring Creek? I think we are chgg our itinerary to be there Sept 14th or 21st. I would definitely like to see the leaves changing even if it means higher rates at the hotel. Using our free skymiles to fly, so a big savings there!