Under the light of the moon The outdoors is always open for after dark activities. BY JAKE NICHOLS Nightlife in Jackson Hole has more and more to offer every year, it seems. From neons to nylons, Jackson’s after dark scene is thriving. But let’s face it, the reason many of us find ourselves here is we enjoy the outdoors; and it can be enjoyed at night, through the summer and beyond. Hot summer soak A year-round favorite nighttime getaway is Huckleberry and Polecat hot springs near Flagg Ranch. It’s a bit of a drive (55 miles, figure 1:20 driving time) to the Flagg Ranch parking lot, but a night out in the cool crisp air, soaking in 100 degree waters will
make it all worthwhile. The hot springs are more popular in the winter with cross-country skiers but cool summer nights are a great time to go as well. Not many campers and lodgers at Flagg Ranch will know about Huckleberry or Polecat. Huckleberry was once built up as a commercial venture but has since returned to its au naturale state. Both offer outstanding views of Mt. Moran and Jackson Lake. To reach the springs, begin in the Flagg Ranch parking lot with the main visitor center to your back, and look for a service road on your right that continues beyond the lot. After a mile the road starts twisting right and heading downhill. Break off here and walk to the left. You
will probably see the trail, if not, keep going another quarter-mile and you can’t miss it. Cross a small stream and choose from a few different pools. If Huckleberry is too crowded for your tastes, push on a little further west to Polecat, right near the Snake River. A three-foot deep pool awaits there that many forget about. Be careful about swallowing water. It contains bacteria that can give you Meningitis. Bring a towel, flashlight, and dry clothes. Shadow Mountain Shadow Mountain has become a not-so-well-kept secret camping/partying spot for small get-togethers. Still, there are plenty of summer nights when you can have it all
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