JACKSON, Wyo. — November can bring a welcome respite from the chaos of the summer to Jacksonites.
Buckrail recently asked its readers about their favorite part of the offseason. Some Facebook commenters participated as well. Readers celebrate less traffic, seeing more wildlife and their migration patterns, deals for locals at restaurants and less chaos in general. Others seem to feel skeptical about there being an offseason at all.
“What’s the offseason?” one Facebook user commented.
“There used to be offseason,” said another.
Other respondents felt more optimistic.
“Without all the traffic and tourists, the valley is calmer and more peaceful, allowing residents to connect with nature and the surrounding breathtaking scenery,” a survey respondent said. “When we aren’t living bumper to bumper, we have a chance to look ‘up’ and marvel at the beauty of this magical place, remembering what beckoned us to come in the first place and then to stay.”
Many respondents had simpler joys to share.
“Getting a parking spot on the square… no circling!” one participant said.
Another longstanding tradition for the offseason is restaurant deals and less crowded restaurants.
Many commenters mentioned that the offseason reminds them why they moved here in the first place. Fewer tourists means seeing more locals around on the trails and in local establishments.
“Seeing old friends on the trails, at the coffee shops, at special events like Center for the Arts, grocery store, etc. etc.,” another respondent wrote. “It warms my heart and reminds me why I love living here in spite of the many changes in the valley. Some things never change. It reminds me why I don’t want to leave the valley, as this is my community and beloved home.”
