Latest news with #JacksonHole
The Sun
4 hours ago
- General
- The Sun
Bank boss & dad-of-three, 43, drops dead after repeatedly scaling mountain six times in crazy ‘EVERESTING' challenge
A NEW York banking executive has died after rapidly hiking up and down a Wyoming peak in an "Everesting" challenge. Dad of three Slava Leykind suffered a cardiac arrest during the event at Snow King Mountain in Jackson Hole. 3 3 3 The challenge sees contestants hike 1,500 ft up and down the mountain until they match the distance of climbing Mount Everest. The world's tallest peak stands at a vast 29,032 ft high. But Leykind had completed six laps before first responders rushed to his aid. Jackson Hole Fire and EMS rushed to the mountain at 11.28 pm to bring medical assistance. He was taken to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho, where he sadly died on July 2, Jackson Hole News & Guide reported. The 43-year-old died from an "electrolyte imbalance causing cardiac arrest" according to Teton County coroner. Leykind lived in Westport with his wife and their three children. He had worked for two decades as an executive at the New York City-based investment bank CG Sawaya Partners. His obituary reads: "Slava Leykind, 43, of Westport, passed away on July 2 from complications sustained while participating in a mountain endurance event earlier that week." It goes on to describe him as a "perfect soulmate" to his wife Amy Keller Leykind and a "superhuman father" to their three kids. "Despite his significant professional success at a young age, Slava's role as a husband and father was his greatest achievement, passion and pride," the obituary adds. "He fervently supported his children, bringing love and a sense of calm to the wonderful chaos of a full house." Contestants in the Everesting challenge have complete to the feat within 36 hours. The Everesting website says: "A straight shot up under the gondola makes this one of the most direct ascent routes in the 29029 family. "Short and steep, this mountain asks for 19 climbs to reach Everest. The majority of the trail consists of hard packed dirt, gravel, and grass. "The summit offers stunning views looking back at the Tetons." Leykind was born in Minsk, Belarus - then in the USSR - in 1982. He emigrated to the United States in 1988. His tragic passing comes after the owner of one of South Africa's top game reserves was trampled to death by an elephant. Chief Executive Officer FC Conradie, who co-owns the exclusive Gondwana Private Game Reserve, was charged at by the animal. He was said by staff to have a "love for elephants and nature" and would often go out to photograph them.
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Travel + Leisure
05-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
10 U.S. 'Coolcation' Destinations to Beat the Heat This Summer
The "coolcation"—a trip centered around cooler climates and breezy destinations—is experiencing a fresh wave of popularity as more travelers look to beat the heat this summer. Rather than flocking to sweltering cities or sunbaked (and ultra-crowded) beaches, vacationers are heading for higher elevations, coastal escapes, and forested retreats where daytime temps stay comfortably mild, while mornings and evenings may even call for a light sweater. While most folks tend to equate coolcations with far-flung locales like Iceland or the Swiss Alps, they're not the only option. In fact, you can experience an epic coolcation right here in the United States—no passport required. From lakefront hideaways to mountain towns, these refreshing getaways offer all the adventure and charm of a classic summer vacation, minus the scorching heat. The historic barn in Teton National Park. Chris Marinaccio/Travel + Leisure "Jackson Hole is the perfect blend of rugged and refined," says Travel + Leisure A-list advisor Laura Asilis. Expect brisk mornings and evenings with pleasantly warm, often sunny afternoons that set the stage for activities like rafting, hiking, or wildlife spotting. Trips to nearby national parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone are a must, as is a visit to the lively Town Square, lined with local haunts like Persephone Bakery and Jackson Drug. The nightlife scene is surprisingly buzzy, with local favorites such as the Silver Dollar Bar and Saloon and the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar offering live music and a lively crowd. At the end of a long day (or night), retreat to Amangani, where, per Asilis, "the views are as spectacular as the service." Two fishing boats docked on land in the middle of the Alaskan mountains. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure Whether you're traveling by cruise or on land, Alaska remains one of the country's top coolcation getaways. "Places such as Sheldon Chalet, Stillpoint Lodge, and several other remote places to stay are cool in the evenings, and the daytime temperatures are comfortable for activities such as fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing," says T+L A-list advisor Kevin Jackson. For a truly memorable experience, the travel pro recommends chartering a yacht through the Inside Passage, a scenic coastal route known for glacier views and frequent wildlife sightings, including bears and whales. For a more affordable option, consider a cruise along the same route, offered by most major lines. The small downtown area of Adams in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images Just a few hours from Boston, Asilis describes the Berkshires as "a classic Northeast retreat with cool evenings and cultural charm." She continues, "I love recommending it for couples or families who want art, music, and wellness all in one place." No trip to the region is complete without attending a summer concert at Tanglewood (where you can pack a leisurely picnic to enjoy under the stars), visiting the MASS MoCA and Norman Rockwell Museum, or enjoying spa treatments at wellness resorts Miraval and Canyon Ranch, both of which are located in the quaint town of Lenox. Take advantage of the summer weather with a visit to one of the region's lakes—Pontoosuc and Onota are two popular spots for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water. Jagged peaked mountains in Telluride, Colorado. MarkWith its cool mornings, colorful wildflower hikes, and a thriving cultural scene, "Aspen in the summer is a dream," says Asilis. She continues, telling T+L, "The Maroon Bells are breathtaking, and I love enjoying a relaxed lunch at Betula after a gallery stroll." Music lovers, meanwhile, should plan their visit around one of the town's summer events: The Aspen Music Festival and School (July 2 through Aug. 24), Up in the Sky (Aug. 8 and 9), and the JAS Labor Day Experience (Aug. 29-31). In terms of accommodations, the travel advisor called The Little Nell her "go-to for its elegant atmosphere and unbeatable access to the mountains." The red rocks of the Grand Canyon stretch into the distance. You might not expect anywhere in Arizona to make a list of coolcation getaways, but the Grand Canyon's North Rim is a surprising exception. Sitting over 1,000 feet higher than the more visited South Rim, this remote area enjoys cooler temperatures and breathtaking views. "The forest is filled with aspen trees and ponderosa pines, and the views of the canyon are spectacular," says Jackson. While the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge offers basic accommodations coupled with scenic views, the North Rim Campground is better suited for travelers seeking a more immersive, back-to-nature experience. A small beach outlet on Lake Tahoe. Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure "Lake Tahoe offers alpine air, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back West Coast vibe," says Asilis. "Summer here is all about paddleboarding, hiking, and sunset cruises." The warm, sunny days are ideal for spending time on the water or exploring nearby trails, while cool evenings are perfect for stargazing or listening to live music: The 2025 summer concert series features a stacked lineup including Earth, Wind & Fire and Hozier. Prepare to be dazzled by the destination's stunningly clear waters, which are great for boating, swimming, or paddling; alternatively, post up by one of the pristine beaches. A mountain towering over a lake in Glacier National Park. Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure Located in northern Montana, this national park offers some of the most scenic hiking in the country. "When the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens, which is typically in early July, the hiking and access is incredible," says Jackson. Other outdoor activities abound, like fishing, rafting, and biking. For true coolcation vibes, consider exploring the park's east side; at an elevation of around 3,200 feet, it tends to be even cooler, especially in the mornings and evenings. According to the pro, most guests will stay in the town of Whitefish and drive to the park and use the access to Whitefish Lake as an option to stay cool and mix up the experiences. Alternatively, reserve a room at the historic Glacier Park Lodge. Located on the park's southeast side, the property stands out for its grand timber architecture and sweeping mountain views. A row of grape vines in Willamette Valley. Known for its 700-plus wineries, Oregon's Willamette Valley region is "really up-and-coming," says T+L A-list advisor Maria Diego. Sip vino in style at wineries like Soter Vineyards, Bethel Heights Vineyard, or Adelsheim Vineyard in between scenic hiking treks in Willamette National Forest, where you can, quite literally, chase waterfalls. The region is also dotted with charming small towns like McMinnville, which is known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene. Newberg is another popular base, and it's home to The Allison Inn & Spa, which comes highly recommended by Diego. Amenities include a holistic spa, an acclaimed restaurant that utilizes locally sourced ingredients (including some from the on-site garden), and spacious rooms featuring fireplaces and soaking tubs. And while daytime temperatures often warm up nicely, mornings and evenings can be brisk, so be sure to bring layers. Beautiful Sunset Fall Hike in Telluride, stunning mountain town sits 8,750 feet above sea level, where summer brings warm days in the low 70s and crisp, cool nights—perfect for outdoor adventure without overheating. While it's a hotspot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, the summer months are prime time for mountain biking and hiking. Meanwhile, says Jackson, "The river is great for rafting and paddle boarding." The town also hosts several festivals throughout the summer, each catering to different interests—from baseball to jazz to mushrooms. View of cliffs over an ocean in Big Sur. Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure Cruise along Highway 1 and embark on a scenic summer road trip through Big Sur, a 90-mile stretch of rugged coastline along California's Central Coast. During the summer months, daytime temperatures range from 60 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Those sunny days are well spent spotting sea otters and exploring hidden coves at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, hiking among the redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, snapping photos at iconic spots like Bixby Bridge, or relaxing on the fairy tale-worthy purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach, which are especially vibrant after a rainfall. While hotel options abound. Asilis counts Post Ranch Inn as one of her "favorite properties anywhere in the world, ideal for disconnecting and recalibrating in pure beauty."
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Travel + Leisure
02-07-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
Jackson Hole's Newest Hotel Only Has 38 Rooms—and a Stay Here Gets You Access to the Most Exclusive Sporting Club in Town
The rooms, designed by Kim Deetjen of TruexCullins Interiors, perfectly balance the refined minimalism you'd expect from a luxury hotel with the thoughtful touches of a boutique property. Suites here feel incredibly livable, and each has a washer, dryer, and kitchen. There are a variety of common areas—including a rooftop with six hot tubs—so guests aren't relegated to their rooms after a round of golf. The location is incomparable; as a guest, you receive rare access to one of the premier sporting clubs in Jackson Hole. In Jackson Hole's ever-expanding luxury hospitality scene, it sometimes feels as if the hotel options blend together in a sea filled with earth tones, wood and stone accents, the obligatory walls of wildlife photography, and other contemporary-meets-Wild West design choices. To stand out, a hotel must have something truly unique: an imitable backstory, an enviable location, or an element of exclusivity. Over the past few years, several new properties have individually checked one or two of those boxes, but there hasn't been one that's nailed all three—until now. On June 18, The Sylvan Lodge, a brand-new retreat at the Snake River Sporting Club, opened its doors, and I was among the first to stay. Although I've been frequenting this part of Wyoming for several years, I never stepped foot inside the private club's grounds. Prior to the hotel's opening, access to this pocket of Jackson Hole, Wyoming—25 minutes south of the town of Jackson—was reserved for members, their guests, or those renting one of the club's luxury homes or cabins. 'The idea for The Sylvan Lodge was born out of organic demand. Because of the quality of our golf course and club amenities, we've long had members and their guests from out of town looking for a place to stay while in Jackson,' Christopher Swann, founder and CEO of Cygnus Capital, tells Travel + Leisure . The club spans nearly 1,000 acres and is renowned for its Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course; the scenic 18-hole layout is tucked between the banks of the meandering Snake River and Bridger-Teton National Forest land. While a reservation at The Sylvan Lodge grants you the ability to schedule a tee time on this otherwise private course, it also provides something slightly less tangible: a chance to experience Jackson Hole's natural beauty and accompanying recreational activities without having to navigate around the thousands of visitors who descend upon the area daily. Even though it's inherently tied to the Snake River Sporting Club, the 38-key Sylvan Lodge is still grounded in its brand and story. 'Sylvan' has a few definitions, but at its core, it refers to something that is 'of the woods.' The theme is central to the design of the property—for example, each suite is named after a local tree. 'The goal was to create a refined, residential retreat that feels connected to the land and invites guests to be part of the forest, rather than just near it,' says Ryan Kingston, the area managing director for Noble House Hotels & Resorts, which manages a group of properties that now includes The Sylvan Lodge. 'The design incorporates natural materials and a neutral palette, along with original artwork by regional artists that reflects the landscape and wildlife, including eagles, elk, and native tree species." While the team was still putting the final touches on some of the hotel's amenities (including its on-site restaurant, fitness center, and spa) during my stay, the level of excellence The Sylvan Lodge is striving to achieve was already apparent. Every detail felt thoughtful and intentional, from the complimentary snack, drink, and coffee bar on the third floor to the heated bathroom floors and the bathrobes that felt so soft, I made note of the brand (Comphy by Coop, in case you're also curious). I think perhaps what impressed me most, though, was the level of service: the graciously attentive housekeeping, the always-helpful front desk, the waitstaff at the clubhouse who consistently remembered my name. The staff created a warm hospitality experience that will set the hotel up for success as it takes its place in Jackson Hole. Here's what it's like to stay at The Sylvan Lodge. Of the 38 guest rooms, 15 are suites. The smallest room category is a King, which has a fairly standard layout with a mini fridge and a Nespresso machine. If you're staying for more than a couple of nights (or traveling with children), I recommend upgrading to one of the suites, which come with in-room laundry and a kitchen, creating a true 'home away from home' experience. Suites also have furnished balconies—they're the perfect place to unwind in the Wyoming sunshine. I stayed in the Two-Bedroom Canopy Suite, a spacious spread that can house up to six guests, thanks to the king room and two sets of bunks in the secondary bedroom. During the day, the European white oak ceilings and walls, as well as the Restoration Hardware furnishings, are flooded with light from the floor-to-ceiling windows, making the space feel bright and airy. My only complaint would be that the shades are operated by hand. Besides that, there isn't an inch of the space that doesn't marry both function and design. The coffee tables are accessorized with books, a backgammon set, and coasters designed to reflect the topography of the Teton Range. The kitchen cabinets and shelves are stocked with Riedel glassware, Churchill stoneware, and all manner of utensils; the custom Sylvan Lodge knife from New West KnifeWorks, a local company, is a particular highlight. The hotel's signature restaurant, Engelmann's Bistro, was not open during my visit, but according to Kingston, the eatery will 'initially focus on breakfast, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients from the Western region.' That said, the dining experiences during my stay took place at the Snake River Sporting Club's clubhouse restaurants, led by executive chef Eric Gruber. The menu at River Room is well curated—one page of soups, salads, starters, sides, and mains—and there's a range of seasonal items. I kept coming back to the beet duo (a combination of pickled and roasted beets and herb-whipped feta), but the daily specials, like the crispy salmon, frequently caught my attention. I also couldn't help but end each meal with a scoop of the bay laurel ice cream, an in-house specialty. Martin Creek Poolside Grill is a casual option for members and lodge guests. I went for the gourmet barbecue sandwich and a side of crudité. While the overall atmosphere of this dining outlet is relaxed, the team was attentive and ensured my gluten-free dietary restriction was top of mind. If you're just looking for drinks, the indoor-outdoor Dark Sky Bar on the third floor of The Sylvan Lodge is the place to be. An expertly prepared, not-too-sweet mocktail was my beverage of choice. Enjoy views of Snake River Canyon and Bridger-Teton National Forest from the infinity-edge pool. Snake River Sporting Club As the cliché goes, there's something for everyone here. As a guest of The Sylvan Lodge, you receive the Snake River Sporting Club's member benefits. Play a round of golf (there are, notably, a few time restrictions for hotel guests), or grab a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard to take out on Beaver Pond, a water feature located near the 11th green and 12th tee. In the warmer months of the year, guests can head up to the five-stand skeet shooting range, book a trail ride along the Snake River, or lounge under an umbrella by the infinity-edge pool beneath the clubhouse. There's also the option to test your hand-eye coordination at the clay tennis court, frisbee golf course, or archery course, complete with 3D targets. In the winter, the sporting club transforms into a haven for cross-country skiers. The team can also help facilitate heli-skiing trips and transport guests to the slopes at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. Eventually, there will be an on-site shop, called 'The Hub,' to facilitate all activities for guests. Helmed by Abril Gruber, the former spa manager of the Amangani resort, the 20,000-square-foot spa at The Sylvan Lodge officially opened its eight treatment rooms and additional facilities a few days after I checked out. I did, however, get to try the Sylvan Signature Massage through an in-room experience. The much-needed service effectively removed the tension and soreness that had built up in my body following a full day of travel, plus a few rounds of skeet shooting and a golf lesson. I also got to walk through the soon-to-open spa upon my arrival, and I was impressed by the full-service facility. In total, the spa has steam rooms, a cold plunge, and an infrared sauna—as well as a therapy pool, a heated deck, and a sun-filled relaxation room. And if you've been thinking about trying a red-light therapy mask? You can pick one up at the spa's retail boutique. Additionally, the fitness center, which is more expansive than many hotel gyms I've encountered, is right next door. While I got my heart rate up with long walks from the hotel down to the clubhouse and equestrian center, guests now have the option to exercise indoors. The weekly yoga and pilates classes are also complimentary. Both Snake River Sporting Club and The Sylvan Lodge are designed to entertain visitors of all ages. The pool at the clubhouse, for example, is popular among younger guests, as is the Beaver Pond. Snake River Sporting Club also has a roster of kids' camps and kid-friendly lessons, focusing on golf, horseback riding, swimming, fly fishing, kayaking, frisbee golf, and more. The interior of Nest. Snake River Sporting Club The common spaces within The Sylvan Lodge are ADA-compliant, and each floor is accessible by an elevator. There is also a lift for the spa's therapy pool available upon request. As far as accommodations go, there is an ADA-compliant king room, outfitted with an accessible sink, bathtub, and toilet with grab bars. Like many hotels in Jackson Hole, The Sylvan Lodge has a few sustainability measures in place. Each guest receives their own Yeti water bottle to refill as necessary, cutting down on plastic usage. The bathrooms also have full-sized Lather products—shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturizer—rather than small, single-use plastic bottles. The Sylvan Lodge is about 30 minutes from downtown Jackson and 40 minutes from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). To get to Snake River Sporting Club, you'll pass over the red Astoria Bridge, with Astoria Hot Springs Park on your left. The hotel and club are located in Snake River Canyon. While you don't get any views of the Tetons, the contrast of the immaculate golf course, glittering river, and dense forest is spectacular in its own right. Ubers and Lyfts are available, but depending on the season and driving availability, it can sometimes be difficult to get a ride this far from town. Renting a car will be your best bet—especially if you plan on venturing out to Grand Teton National Park. Alternatively, the hotel can arrange a private transfer to and from the airport. The bell staff can also shuttle guests around the property via golf cart as needed. Interior of the lodge lobby. Snake River Sporting Club At this time, The Sylvan Lodge does not have a loyalty program or a partnership with a credit card. There are, however, a few different offers in place, including a grand opening offer (available through December 31) and the 'Serenity at Sylvan' package, which includes a two-night stay and a $300 spa credit. Nightly rates at The Sylvan Lodge start from $700. Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values .
New York Times
01-07-2025
- Business
- New York Times
Vance Keeps Aggressive Summer Fund-Raising Schedule for G.O.P.
Vice President JD Vance is spending time this summer embracing a lesser-known title he also holds, the finance chair of the Republican Party. Mr. Vance, in an unorthodox arrangement, is serving in the Republican National Committee's senior-most fund-raising role. And he has quickened his pace of finance engagements in recent weeks, including a previously unreported round table to be held in San Diego on Monday, according to two people with knowledge of the event. That round table will occur on the same trip as a dinner in San Diego at which Mr. Vance is to receive an award from the conservative Claremont Institute. The right-wing activist Charlie Kirk will serve as the emcee for that event, where tickets are going for a minimum of $2,500-a-seat. Mr. Vance is also set to headline a fund-raising reception in the summer hot spots of Nantucket, Mass., on July 22, and Jackson Hole, Wyo., on July 29, according to copies of the invitations. And he is expected to headline several other fund-raising events in July and August. The Wyoming event will be at least the seventh finance event that Mr. Vance has attended since mid-June. Others have included appearances in Silicon Valley at the home of the investor Chamath Palihapitiya, along with Sergey Brin, the co-founder of Google, Alexandr Wang, the co-founder of Scale AI, and Palmer Luckey, the co-founder of the autonomous defense systems company Anduril, according to a person briefed on the event. Mr. Vance also appeared in Atlanta, in Nashville and at the Republican National Committee's summer retreat in Los Angeles, according to copies of the invitations. Several of these dinners have advertised ticket prices of $100,000 per couple to attend or $250,000 per couple to join the host committee. Mr. Vance is doing all of this as he remains a likely 2028 presidential candidate. His finance role allows him to mingle with prospective donors under the auspices of the Republican National Committee. The committee is not wanting for cash. As of May 31, it held a commanding $60 million advantage in cash on hand over the Democratic National Committee.
Mint
01-07-2025
- Business
- Mint
Powell speaks in Europe as Trump piles pressure on Fed
Jerome Powell will try to project stability without worsening the fight over Federal Reserve independence at a gathering sometimes referred to as the European equivalent of the central bank's Jackson Hole economic conference. The Fed chair will speak Tuesday morning at the European Central Bank's Forum on Central Banking in Sintra, Portugal, as the White House steps up plans to replace him and fractures inside the Fed become harder to ignore. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Bloomberg on Monday that there are already people at the Federal Reserve who could take over for Powell when his term ends in May. He also said that the administration might fill a key Fed board seat that opens in January with someone who could later take over as chair. President Donald Trump made clear in a Fox News interview over the weekend that successor will be expected to cut interest rates aggressively. Shortly after Bessent's remarks, Trump took to social media to escalate his attacks on Powell and the Fed board, accusing them of costing the country 'trillions of dollars" by keeping rates too high. Trump said the full board 'should be ashamed of themselves." The strategy reflects a push by the administration to steer monetary policy ahead of Powell's 2026 exit. Markets are already reacting: The dollar and bond yields have both fallen. At the same time, divisions are widening within the central bank. Two Trump-appointed officials, Gov. Christopher Waller and Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman, have called for rate cuts as soon as July, citing softer inflation and early signs of weakness in the job market. Other officials, including Powell, are urging patience, warning that tariff-driven price pressures, geopolitical issues, and other Federal policy complicate the path to easing. Officials held rates at 4.25%-4.50% at the Fed's June meeting and signaled that there could still be two rate cuts later this year. But the Summary of Economic Projections showed a growing divergence—eight officials foresaw two cuts this year while seven policymakers predicted there would be none. That fragmentation is playing out against a fragile economy. Thursday's jobs report for June could complicate the picture both for those policymakers who favor cutting rates, and for those who see a need to hold them steady. Economists expect payroll growth to slow and the unemployment rate to edge higher, signs that a cooling of the labor market is under way. A stronger-than-expected report could give Fed officials cover to hold rates steady for longer, while a weak result may fuel calls for earlier cuts, both from inside the Fed and the White House. Those pressures will be front and center when Powell joins ECB President Christine Lagarde, Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda, and Bank of Korea President Chang Yong Rhee for a policy panel at Sintra. It is scheduled to start as the stock market opens at 9:30 a.m. Eastern. Write to Nicole Goodkind at
