JACKSON, Wyo. — On May 27, the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce’s Best of the West parade filled the streets around Town Square to highlight Jackson’s world-class recreation, culture and natural environment that make it unique to other western towns.

The Chamber rebranded the Old West Days parade as the new Best of the West parade to increase community representation.

Photos: Nick Sulzer // Buckrail

Jackson Hole was established in 1894 and is located in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest, nearly intact ecosystems in the world.

The valley has a rich ranching and homesteading history and has connections to a large number of indigenous tribes. In addition to cowboy culture, there is also a vibrant Latino community and unique wildlife populations. There is also iconic skiing and snowboarding, rafting, mountain biking and hiking, as well as a legacy of conservation.

River Stingray is a news reporter with a passion for wildlife, history and local lenses. She holds a Master's degree in environmental archaeology from the University of Cambridge and is also a published poet, dog mom and outdoor enthusiast.