If you're on the hunt for vacation property but fear the inevitable encroachment of civilization -- skyscrapers, parking lots, and billboards -- head to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Here, nestled in the Teton Mountains, you'll find an automatic insurance policy that protects the sanctity of the land: Only 3 percent of Jackson Hole is privately owned. The remaining 97 percent is protected indefinitely as national parks, national forest land, or BLM and conservation holdings.

It's clear that Jackson Hole is a wise investment for any investor. The integrity of the surrounding environment is vigilantly protected here. The tourists come and go, and vacation home owners return regularly to marvel at the scenery; yet native streams, rivers, and wildlife are not sacrificed for that purpose. This careful balance creates a win-win situation for Jackson Hole: Species are protected, the environment is preserved, and that's precisely what keeps people coming back here -- and many of them to stay. Such a careful observance is nature is an anomaly. In fact, Jackson Hole is considered to represent the largest intact ecosystem in the lower 48 states and one of the world's most environmentally protected areas. More than 60 species, six game fish, and 200 species of birds live in habitats in and around Jackson Hole, an area that includes the Grand Teton National Park and the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

Jackson Hole is actually a valley 80 miles long and 15 miles wide. Aside from a carefully maintained environment, the benefits of living in Jackson Hole are immediately obvious. It's an outdoor lover's playground here; your imagination is your only limit. Whether you're a diehard thrill-seeker or prefer to take your recreation at a more leisurely pace, you'll find an activity -- and a natural venue -- to accommodate your needs in Jackson Hole. In addition to hiking, mountain climbing, skiing, hunting, and river rafting, you'll also find trout fishing (very popular here), championship golf courses, tennis, and more. Guided tours are plentiful, as well. Visitors may embark on day-long or multi-day backpacking trips, exploring Jackson Hole's vast wilderness. If you're not quite as daring but want to take advantage of the natural surroundings nonetheless, you'll find that bird-watching is quite popular here, as is wildlife photography. During the fall months, the region's native trees attract foliage admirers.

But sports aren't the only pastime of Jackson Hole residents and regulars. The town's Summer Music Festival has gained worldwide recognition. An annual arts festival marks the arrival of each fall, running from mid-September to mid-October. World-renowned chefs have taken note of the influx of tourists here and have established fine restaurants in Jackson Hole, many of which are critically acclaimed. The towns of Moose, Kelly, and Wilson are situated within Jackson Hole. And to the west lies another town called Jackson, which also caters to tourists with its wealth of specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. A side note: Some of the region's restaurants offer a local delicacy - bison. Yes, bison. It's touted as being lower in calories and have less fat than beef. The unadventurous need not apply.

Given the stunning surroundings, one might expect the real estate offerings to be both diverse and unique in Jackson Hole … and they are. Reflecting their natural surroundings, many homes in Jackson Hole are nestled in the woods and emphasize the use of local resources -- for example, log homes, which are a popular choice here. Contemporary Western-style homes are another common architectural style. Many homes boast views of the Grand Tetons, Snake River, and nearby Yellowstone National Park (bordering Jackson Hole to the north) and are strategically located near world-class golf, skiing, and tennis facilities. Vacationers have an abundance of vacation properties from which to choose. Prices vary according to the season; the summer months are usually considered prime time. Rates range anywhere from $225 to $700 per night or more. During the summer, homes are available from, on average, $4,000 to $12,000 per month, depending on one's preference of amenities. Condominiums are plentiful, as well, and represent a more affordable option for vacationers and residents alike.

Jackson Hole is one of the country's remaining genuine nature preserves. It's where progress has been allowed to continue, but only on the terms of the town's steadfast residents. To compromise Jackson Hole's environment would be the equivalent of compromising its distinctive character, and with that philosophy in mind, this town is likely to remain a quiet preserve where two worlds coexist rather than collide.

Published: November 2, 1998

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Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Courtney Ronan only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.