The United States is such a large and gloriously scenic nation that devoting some time to domestic explorations is hardly a sacrifice. For our first editorial foray after the pandemic began, we headed to one of America’s most spectacular regions, the Rockies.

One might not ordinarily think of combining Park City, Utah, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, but the pair makes a fine combination in summer, early fall or ski season. We took advantage of the warm, clear weather to hike, bike and dine on panoramic patios, but I would love to re-create our journey in winter to hit the slopes and indulge in après ski.

This itinerary follows more or less in my footsteps, substituting recommended hotels where the new properties I tested didn’t quite work out. In spite of a couple of disappointing hotels, we were once again seduced by the scenic grandeur of the West, where the clean air and open spaces felt like the perfect antidote.