Jackson Hole, Wyo., is home to some of the most spectacular and breathtaking scenery in the United States. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring Teton Mountains in a valley along the Snake River, this small town is paradise for those who love the great outdoors.
It comes as little surprise that Wisconsin's own group of intrepid adventurers, the Hoofers, makes Jackson its annual spring-break ski destination. A long-standing tradition, the ski trip to Jackson has been a Hoofers mainstay for over 40 years. This year's group continued the legacy, and over 170 students crammed into three buses for the 21-hour trip out west.
Ski fanatics from all over are drawn to Jackson's intimidating terrain, deep powder and western hospitality. After a day on the slopes at the nearby Teton Village resort, many skiers head for liquid refreshments at a popular bar called the Mangy Moose.
Conveniently located at the base of the ski resort, the Mangy Moose is only a few short steps from the ski lifts. Decked out in rustic western splendor with walls of large timber logs, the bar is part of an immense complex that also features a liquor store, gift shop and two restaurants.
The Mangy Moose Bar is similarly quite large and is set on two levels with bars on both floors. The first floor has a number of tables and features a stage in the corner. The second floor opens up to expose the stage, giving patrons a birds'-eye view of the performers and the antics of the crowd. The bar is designed for maximum capacity and efficiency — all the while maintaining its Western flair lest you forget you are in the mountains. Given such a layout, the Mangy Moose is well known for its live entertainment.
A first-time visitor will immediately notice the array of musical memorabilia near the stage, such as autographed cymbals from previous performers. The weekend performances are known to sell out fast; it is a good idea to call ahead and get your tickets in advance if you are planning on being in the area.
Last Friday night's performer was a one-man show by Keller Williams. Playing almost eight guitars in a performance, he is popular among the Western jam-band crowd. Sometimes sampling his own material or using his mouth to make comical tones such as a trumpet, Williams is a one-man wrecking crew. Always playing more than one instrument at once with an amazing degree of concentration, he was able to get the crowd moving to a blend of original and cover songs.
Jackson Hole held its annual snowmobile race last weekend, known as the Hill Climber competition. The race, which is held at nearby Snow King Mountain, draws snowmobile enthusiasts from all over. The fans and competitors were not hard to miss, with their colorful jackets, long hair and an overwhelming desire to have a great time.
The presence of snowmobile fans, skiers, tourists and locals creates a dynamic party atmosphere. This mix, however, does not hold a candle to one of the most famous Mangy Moose parties, called “69 Days "Till Ski Season”.
Held annually in late-September, the “69 Days” party marks the official countdown to the opening of the Teton Village ski area. Featuring bands that play up-tempo, get-down and dirty party music, this party is the Mangy Moose at its rowdiest. People come dressed up in the flashiest "70s- and "80s-era ski outfits, sometimes even down to the ski boots.
The list of contests is impressive: kissing contest, bikini contest, frozen T-shirt contest and a sleeping bag contest. Many locals are more than willing to indulge in the events, and the atmosphere resembles New Year's, Mardi Gras and spring break all rolled into one.
Speaking of locals, most people in their 20s in Jackson are from out of town. The Mangy Moose is no exception, and most of the bartenders and waitstaff are not Jackson natives. It is not shocking to learn that many people simply came to Jackson on a ski trip or in the summer and decided not to leave. Call it the Jackson Hole vacuum — the natural beauty, combined with a relaxed attitude for fun, is intoxicating and addictive.
The West is known for its delicious microbrews, and the Mangy Moose serves them up well. Favorites such as Fat Tire, Flying Dog, Moose Drool, Snake River and the bar's very own Moose Brew are available on tap.
I was pleasantly surprised to find PBR available in bottles, which was unfortunately all sold out last weekend. Although I can't confirm it, I have a sneaking suspicion a few Badgers might be responsible for the shortage.
Other popular drinks include Moose Punch, a rum drink with fruit juice, and the Cadillac Margarita, which uses Cuervo Gold, Cointreau, and a float of Grand Marnier. These drinks aside, the most popular house drink is Pablo's Picasso. Featuring vodka, rum, fruit juices and a splash of 151, this drink will make you think of warmer destinations on a cold day. What else would you expect from a bar with a drink named after a man whose legendary last words were, “Drink to me”?
Jackson Hole offers unparalleled outdoor excitement, and the Mangy Moose provides the right venue to celebrate inside. Just be aware, fellow Flatlanders — the drink menu is extensive, and the vibe is right, but remember, your tolerance is lower at higher elevation.
Bartime will rock at the Casbah Lounge tonight, Friday, April 5, at 10:30 p.m. The Casbah is located off the Capitol Square at 119 E. Main St. and can be reached at 255-2272. Cheers!