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Day 030: 01/31/12

Vintage Sleigh Ride Dinner

Words By: Kevin Wittig

Photography By: Stephen Williams

Certain experiences in Jackson are truly unique. Eighty inch storm cycles are one. An evening sleigh ride to a riverside winter tipi camp for dinner is another. Anyone would be lucky to enjoy either. As chance would have it, last week I was able to do both, and for a moment in time, lived the dream.

AJ Derosa, owner of Snake River Vintage Sleigh Rides and Wildlife Snowshoe Tours, met us at the staging area. AJ has been operating sleigh tours for over fourteen years, and outfitting in the region for more than thirty. His passion and experience are readily apparent. Introducing us to our new friends for the evening, a family visiting from Florida, he prepared our group for the horse drawn journey to camp. At first sight of the vintage sleigh and Belgium work horses, I knew we were in for evening to remember.

Blanketed in warmth, we embarked through the woods on the tour to camp. Our guide, Todd, a genuine outfitter, effortlessly handled the powerful horses as they silently broke trail. Gently gliding in the sleigh, the sight of lightly falling snow enhanced the beauty of the surrounding scenery. Emerging from the trees along the banks of the Snake River, we paused to take in the majesty of the pristine landscape. Against a backdrop of snow, the river takes on the impression of dark ink, appearing almost surreal as it flows through the landscape. With the sun setting in the distance, I turned to my friend and exclaimed: “You can’t beat this!”

Lanterns guided us towards camp as we approached the tipis from the river. Arriving at our destination, we found ourselves in the lap of luxury. Warm tents welcomed the sleigh as we explored the camp and sipped libations. Around the fire, we met Kevin, a knowledeagible and friendly snowshoe guide deeply connected to the land. “You can’t buy this in Colorado or Utah, or anywhere else” Kevin said, continuing, “This experience is something very special that you can only do in Jackson Hole.”

Casually, we made our way from the fire to the dining tent. The homely structure featured carpet, gas burning stoves and western decor highlighted by an impressive hand made sage brush wreath. Delightful appetizers of smoked salmon and buffalo salami were beautifully presented. Friendly service then offered the evening’s main course: cowboy chicken fried chicken (yes, chicken fried chicken!) with bbq pulled pork, roasted vegetables, cowboy baked beans and homemade bread. Opening a bottle of wine, we helped ourselves to the sampling of treats handpicked from the best providers in the valley. Each dish satisfied our hungry appetites. Around the table, we remarked that the unique setting was truly one of a kind, and unlike anything we had experienced in Jackson Hole

Following the meal, Kevin invited us to the tipi for desert. Let me preface by saying I’ve never been in a tipi before. Upon entering, I was blown away by the comfort. Kevin took a moment to explain the mechanics of the structure and how its design creates the draw that allows the heat and smoke of the fire to rise. Leather bound books and authentic decoration made us feel right home. Warm rocks from fire heated our feet as we slipped back in time and shared stories with new friends in the relaxing environment.

As the evening came to a close, our gracious host took care of everything, leaving us to enjoy every moment of the experience. As we stolled back to the staging area along a lantern lit walk way, my friends paused for a moment of reflection. “My parents would absolutely love this”, Mike said. In unison, we emphatically agreed. If visiting Jackson Hole, or hosting guests that are truly looking for a western experience, we’d highly recommend a trip with AJ Derosa’s Vintage Sleigh Ride for a dinner that will not be forgotten.

Outfitter AJ Derosa loads our party onto the sleigh for the ride to camp with our guide Todd.

Decorative lanterns light the landscape as we enjoy sunset and relax near the fire.

Comfort surrounds us as we enjoy the meal followed by conversation with friends in the authentic tipi.

For more information, visit AJ Derosa’s Vintage Sleigh Ride Dinner website to book an evening for your group or party.