For years now, Jackson Hole has loomed large in my mind as the epitome of a true western mountain town. There’s unbeatable skiing, both inbound and backcountry; authentic saloons around every corner; proximity to not one but two massive, wildlife-filled national parks. I’ve always been romanced by the idea of the Tetons with their jagged peaks cutting into that wide Western sky, the free-roaming bison, the old-as-the-hills shops in town selling locally-crafted cowboy hats and leather boots galore. It’s my catnip.

Jackson Hole is no stranger to massive swells of seasonal visitors — town was packed day and night when I was there. It sees thousands upon thousands of adventure-seekers traveling in to see Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks every summer, a bounty of bachelorette parties throughout the year, well-heeled second-home-owners and the like. But despite its booming tourism, the area has managed to maintain its charm and authentic western feel. I can now say that it really is just as special as I’d imagined it would be for all these years.

Related: How to plan an epic road trip through Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks

And my first trip there was made all the more special with a stay at the brand new Trailborn Jackson Hole, a property that was originally built in the 1970s and was formerly the Snow King Resort Hotel. After completing a top-to-toe renovation, it reflagged to Marriott, joining the fast-growing Trailborn Hotels and Resorts brand, which integrated into Marriott’s Outdoor Collection last year. So in addition to being a cozy home base while in town, it’s also blessedly bookable on points.

With its warm tones, abundant nods to local Jackson Hole culture, ski lodge vibes and incredibly friendly staff, Trailborn Jackson Hole is welcoming a new era of outdoorsy hospitality to the base of Snow King Mountain. Here’s what my new favorite mountain town hotel is all about:

Know before you go

• The vibe: a laidback, unfussy yet design-forward mountain lodge — exactly what I’d expect and want from a mountain town hotel. Guests were a mix of families with children, multigenerational groups, couples and adventure travelers.
• The location: The hotel is located right at the base of Snow King Mountain Resort (operated separately from the hotel), about a ten minute walk from downtown Jackson Hole.
• Getting there: Trailborn Jackson Hole is 10 miles from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), about a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. There are taxis and rideshare options available in the area, and the hotel has a shuttle, though with limited availability, so call ahead to schedule a ride.
• Parking: Parking is available on-site, but there is no valet service.
• Size: There are 203 rooms and suites at the resort, but it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly big — it’s very easy to navigate. At night, it was very peaceful and quiet for sleeping.
• Food and drink: There is one full-service restaurant on-site that serves a breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner. There is also a smaller grab-and-go cafe.
• Pet policy: The hotel is dog friendly (there is a two dog maximum per room a $65 pet cleaning fee per day).

Rooms

My room at Trailborn Jackson Hole felt comfortable, homey and had everything I needed during my stay. I enjoyed the summer-camp-meets-ski-lodge feel, created through thoughtful decor choices like an outdoorsy, hand-stitched quilt hanging above the bed; a patchwork tote for guest use; framed black-and-white ski photos on the walls; a copy of Mountain Gazette magazine next to the phone; a collection of hiking snacks; a retro-style radio; a whimsical celestial pattern on the bed’s coverlet; warm lighting; and wooden touches aplenty. It felt like sleepaway camp for grown ups, with trendy touches like painted exposed brick and plush bathrobes.

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ELLIE NAN STORCK/THE POINTS GUY

My large window looked out over a grassy knoll behind the hotel, and there was plenty of natural light.

Utilitarian yet elevated, the bathroom was small, neat and tidy. I liked the refreshing Grown Alchemist bath products, and little touches like a colorful, hand-stitched tissue box cover brought Trailborn’s signature charm into the space.

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Dining and drinking

Trailborn Jackson Hole is home to Old Timer, the hotel’s signature restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. “Alpine comfort food” is how the restaurant describes its menu, which feels like a fitting characterization; the kitchen serves up items like raclette poutine, soft pretzels, charcuterie, sticky wings, wedge salad, elk and bison chili, local trout, smashburgers, steak and roast chicken.

For dinner, I enjoyed an expertly-prepared and well-seasoned filet mignon ($66) with a crispy, crunchy caesar salad ($16). A spicy margarita was the perfect pairing for a hot summer evening.

With both indoor and outdoor seating, Old Timer, which matches the rest of the hotel’s warm and western aura, was quite busy during the length of my stay, so reservations for dinner are certainly recommended.

Otherwise, there is a convenient grab-and-go-style cafe called Mountainside Bar and Cafe, with open seating around a multi-sided fireplace, serving coffee and quick bites (it’s also great for grabbing a poolside snack, since the pool is located just outside of this area).

Amenities and services

The hotel features the following amenities and services for guests to enjoy:

• A beautifully-appointed, on-site spa, Ember Lily (located in a building a short walk up the hill from the main building) offers a range of wellness services like massages and facials, as well as a sauna, steam room, recovery rooms and plunge pools.
• An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub
• A 24-hour fitness center
• A retro-style game room, Alley-Oop, features a duckpin bowling alley, a photo booth and games like chess, checkers and skee-ball.
• The Adventure Concierge service in the lobby can help plan and book seasonal tours including full and half day tours of the local national parks, horseback riding excursions and more.
• Ski-in, ski-out access to the local mountain (which also has hiking trails aplenty for the warmer months)

How to book Trailborn Jackson Hole

You can book Trailborn Jackson Hole directly through the website, which allows you to book using cash or Marriott Bonvoy points.

Nightly rates over the next six months start from $178 or 57,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Keep in mind that high season is summertime, followed closely by the winter months, so rates will be significantly higher during those seasons. The hotel charges a $39 nightly resort fee.

Accessibility

Trailborn Jackson Hole’s common spaces and guest rooms are completely ADA compliant (guest room features include roll-in showers, visual alarms and more). There are ramps and wheelchair-friendly elevators throughout the hotel.

As always, TPG recommends calling the hotel before booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Bottom Line

For those in search of a comfortable, lodge-style mountain resort with charm in spades, matching that of the town and surrounding area, Trailborn is just the ticket. And the fact that it’s bookable using Marriott points makes it all the sweeter.

I know I’ll be returning this winter to ski the local mountain and I can’t wait to check in to my new favorite home base for outdoor adventure (I’m already stacking up my Marriott points!).