Hoback Canyon
Located approximately 15 miles south of Jackson on Hwy. 189/191 is Hoback Junction and an entrance into scenic Hoback Canyon. Known for its amazing whitewater, fantastic fishing and dramatic beauty, the Hoback River, which constantly weaves its way along the road, joins the Snake River creating one of the major confluences in northwest Wyoming. From rafting to rock climbing to just plain relaxing, the canyon provides ample means of enjoyment for every visitor.
Clinging to the walls of the canyon, the road passes the high face of Battle Mountain, the site of one of the few conflicts between Indians and whites in this part of the state. It was here in 1885 that whites from Jackson Hole mounted an attack on Bannock Indians who had been hunting out of season along the Hoback River. Occasionally blocked by avalanches in the winter, the canyon is a great place to see deer, moose and bighorn sheep.
After about 12 miles of enjoying the rivers contours and the canyons endless features, a turnoff to Granite Hot Springs provides a very scenic side trip. In summer, a well-maintained gravel road follows Granite Creek for 10 miles, offering impressive views of the Gros Ventre Range and the 50-foot drop of majestic Granite Falls. The road terminates at a parking lot just a short stroll from the hot springs. Built in 1933 by the CCC, the deep pool includes a deck and changing rooms. A nearby campground is open late June-September. Camping is also permitted along the road except for the final 1.3 miles before the springs.
In the winter, the road is not plowed but is groomed for use by both snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. If youre looking for a unique means of getting to the hot springs in the winter months, consider a dog sled tour for a half-day or full-day.
Continuing through the canyon, the spread-out town of Bondurant (pop. 160) straggles along the road through a breathtaking mountain valley, its pastures dotted with piles of hay, creekside meadows and grazing horses and livestock. With the Gros Ventre Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop, only a handful of log homes exist-illustrating the quaint areas rustic way of life. Bondurant is named for Sarah Ellen and Benjamin Franklin Bondurant, who were the first settlers. From 1907 and 1927, the two ran a popular dude ranch which included all sorts of wild animals-even young bears!
The town offers lodging, a gas station, general store, caf, laundromat and country watering hole. The Bondurant Barbecue, a big barbecue feast, takes place at the end of June.
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