Beyond adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures, Jackson Hole is also a haven for foodies and foragers alike, with a plethora of local eateries ready to fuel your excursions. If you’re planning a day of foraging this spring, here’s a guide to making the most of your experience.
Breakfast: Rise and Shine
Before embarking on your foraging expedition, kickstart your day with an on-the-go breakfast that promises to keep you energized for hours. For those headed south of Jackson, stop in at Jackson Hole Marketplace for a breakfast sandwich. If your route is taking you west, then the grab-and-go window at Nora’s Fish Creek Inn will have you satiated and on your way in a matter of minutes.
Foraging Tips: Harvesting Nature’s Bounty
The Jackson Hole area offers a bounty of wild edibles waiting to be discovered. Follow these tips to make the most of your foraging experience:
- Do Your Research: Familiarize yourself with local plant species and their edible components before venturing out. It’s also a good idea to carry a field guide with you. Morel mushrooms are the most popular foraging pursuit, but don’t be fooled by false morels.
- Harvest Sustainably: Only take what you will consume and be mindful of the impact your foraging activities may have on the ecosystem.
- Safety First: Foraging can take you off the beaten path, so be prepared with sun protection and layers that will protect you from scraps and scratches. And, as most mountain adventurists know, it’s best to dress in layers in case there’s a surprise afternoon rain (or snow) shower.
Packed Lunch: Some of our Favorite Grab-and-Go Options
As you prepare for a day of exploring, it’s essential to pack a satisfying lunch that won’t weigh you down. Swing by Jackson’s Pearl Street Market to stock up on nourishing snacks and gourmet provisions. Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention Creekside Market & Deli, which is a go-to for locals and visitors looking for the best build-your-own sandwich options.
Recreate Responsibly: Foraging Etiquette
As outdoor enthusiasts, it’s our responsibility to tread lightly and preserve the natural beauty of the landscapes we explore. When foraging for wild edibles in Jackson Hole, follow these guidelines to ensure the sustainability of our outdoor resources:
- Leave No Trace: Always adhere to the principles of leave no trace when foraging in the wilderness. Pack out any trash or debris you encounter, and avoid disturbing delicate ecosystems.
- Respect Private Property: Obtain permission from landowners before foraging on private property, and always respect posted signs, boundaries and closure dates. For those without connections to local landowners, there are plenty of public land foraging options in the area.
- Know Before You Go: Familiarize yourself with local regulations and restrictions governing foraging activities in Jackson Hole. Certain areas may be off-limits to foraging to protect sensitive habitats or have quantity restrictions around how much you’re allowed to harvest.
Happy Hour: Celebrating a Successful Day
After a rewarding day of exploration and discovery, it’s time to unwind and toast to your adventures. Head to Local Restaurant & Bar for a well-deserved happy hour experience, which is available from 3–6 p.m. and includes half-off co*cktails, wine and beer. For a more casual happy hour outing, head to Cutty’s Bar and Grill Monday-Friday from 4–6 p.m. for $2 off drafts and well drinks, as well as half-off appetizers.
Conclusion: From Harvest to Table
As you return from your outdoor adventures, the next step is to transform your foraged finds into culinary delights.
- Prep Your Harvests: Clean and prepare your foraged harvests to thoroughly remove any dirt or debris, taking the time to handle these items with care.
- Elevate Your Favorite Dishes: Once your foraged treasures are clean and ready to use, the culinary possibilities are endless. Incorporate wild greens into vibrant salads or sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a simple yet satisfying side dish. Accentuate your favorite pasta dishes with the earthy richness of wild mushrooms, or use them to create a hearty mushroom risotto.
- Try a New Recipe: You’ve already taken a walk on the wild side, so why not push your boundaries in the kitchen by incorporating your finds into something new? Get your creative juices flowing with recipes inspired by local restaurants and fare on Dishing’s website. For example, Glorietta Trattoria’s Spaghetti with Mushrooms and Leeks would be an avenue for adding freshly found morel mushrooms.
In Jackson Hole, the adventure never ends, and the culinary delights of the wilderness are yours to explore and enjoy. Cheers to a day well spent and a table filled with the flavors of the great outdoors!
