Ashton Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ashton with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, activities, accommodations, culinary delights, and cultural experiences of Ashton in Idaho.


Introduction to Ashton

Ashton is a charming town situated in Eastern Idaho, near the border of Yellowstone National Park. It is a gateway to some of the most stunning natural attractions in the region, including Harriman State Park, Island Park, and Mesa Falls. With the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and history, Ashton offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ashton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ashton Heritage Museum: Learn about the history of Ashton and its founding families at this restored 1912 schoolhouse turned museum.
  • Johnny Sack Cabin: Visit this restored log cabin to see how the early settlers lived in the area.
  • Egin Bench Canal: Take a walk or bike ride along this canal to admire the engineering feat that irrigated the region and turned it into fertile farmland.

Natural Attractions of Ashton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mesa Falls: Marvel at the two 100-foot waterfalls and hike the trails to get stunning views of the falls and the surrounding scenery.
  • Harriman State Park: Enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in this 16,000-acre park that was once a private retreat for the Railroad Baron Edward Harriman.
  • Island Park: Take a scenic drive through this picturesque wilderness area full of forests, rivers, and lakes, or enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ashton

  • Upper and Lower Mesa Falls Trail: Hike this trail to get up close with the mesmerizing waterfalls of Mesa Falls.
  • Osborne Russell Trail: This 6-mile trail is a great option for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to explore the wilderness areas surrounding Ashton.

Best Things to Do in Ashton: Activities and Tours

  • Float the River: Enjoy a relaxing float trip down the scenic Henry’s Fork River and take in the beautiful scenery.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Get a chance to spot elk, moose, wolves, and bears in their natural habitat while driving or hiking in the surrounding wilderness areas.
  • Hot Springs: Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the nearby hot springs for a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ashton

| Day | Activity | | — | — | | 1 | Explore Ashton Heritage Museum, Johnny Sack Cabin, and Egin Bench Canal | | 2 | Hike the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls Trail | | 3 | Enjoy a float trip down Henry’s Fork River | | 4 | Visit Harriman State Park and Island Park | | 5 | Soak in the hot springs | | 6 | Take the Osborne Russell Trail or go fishing on the Henry’s Fork River | | 7 | Relax and explore downtown Ashton for souvenir shopping, dining, and local culture |

Food and Drink Scene of Ashton

Must-Try Dishes

  • Famous Ashton Potato: Try this local specialty made from Idaho potatoes baked with toppings like bacon, cheese, and sour cream.
  • Huckleberry Pie: Savor the flavor of local huckleberries in a delicious pie that is a specialty of the region.

Local Beverages

  • Teton Valley Wines: Sip on locally produced wines that are made from grapes grown on the nearby Teton Valley Vineyard.
  • Cider: Visit the local cideries that produce delicious and refreshing hard ciders using locally sourced fruit.

Where to Stay in Ashton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Ashton Inn & Suites: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and fitness center.
  • Henry’s Fork Inn: This cozy inn is located near the Henry’s Fork River and offers rooms with stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Ashton Guest House: This popular guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations, a garden, and a shared lounge area.

What to Buy in Ashton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huckleberry Jam: Take home a jar of delicious huckleberry jam, a local specialty, from one of the many specialty stores in Ashton.
  • Potato Chips: Sample the famous Idaho potato chips that are made from locally sourced potatoes.

Local Culture and Customs of Ashton

Ashton has a friendly and welcoming small-town culture, with a strong emphasis on community and family. Visitors are encouraged to respect local traditions and customs and to always extend their hospitality and kindness to the locals.

Best Time to Visit Ashton

The best time to visit Ashton is during the summer season, from June to September, when the temperatures are mild and the outdoor activities are at their peak. Fall can also be a great time to visit when the foliage turns vibrant colors and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ashton

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Pack for the changing weather conditions.
  • Try the local culinary specialties.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas or on the streets.
  • Disrespect the wildlife or the environment.
  • Ignore the traffic rules and safety regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ashton

Ashton is a safe place to visit, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors are advised to take precautions to avoid accidents in the wilderness areas and when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Ashton

Visitors should be prepared for altitude sickness when visiting high altitude areas like Island Park or Mesa Falls. It is important to stay hydrated and take it slow when transitioning to new elevations.

Getting to Ashton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ashton

  • Jackson Hole Airport: Located 85 miles away from Ashton, this is the closest airport with reliable commercial flights.
  • Idaho Falls Regional Airport: Located 80 miles away from Ashton, this airport has many commercial flights with multiple airlines.

Bus Stations Near Ashton

  • Salt Lake Express: This bus company has multiple daily trips to Ashton from Salt Lake City and other nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Driving: Ashton is easily accessible by car via US Route 20.
  • Rental Cars: Many car rental companies operate at Jackson Hole and Idaho Falls airports.

How to Get Around in Ashton

Ashton is a small town with limited public transportation options. It is recommended to rent a car or bike to explore the surrounding areas and to participate in outdoor activities.

Where to Go Next from Ashton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yellowstone National Park: Explore the world-famous national park that is located just a short drive away from Ashton.
  • Grand Teton National Park: Visit the magnificent Teton mountain range that is located less than an hour’s drive from Ashton.

Conclusion

Ashton is a magical destination that offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your perfect trip to Ashton and make the most of your visit to this charming town.