A Walk in the Woods at Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa May Improve Your Health

A recent article in the Health section of the New York Times, “Take a Walk in the Woods. Doctor’s Orders.” reveals a trend toward immersion in the woods, modeled after the Japanese tradition of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing.” Doctors and authors around the world assert that time spent in nature can provide health benefits such as lowering blood pressure, reducing stress and boosting moods, with a heightened effect near a stream or body of water. The news doesn’t surprise Adam Long, general manager of Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa, a luxurious historic guest ranch on the shores of alpine Brooks Lake deep in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest near Yellowstone National Park.

“We see firsthand the difference in our guests after even a short time experiencing this beautiful natural setting through hikes, canoeing, fishing, horseback riding – or just sitting on the porch listening to the birds and breeze,” says Long. “And many of our guests return year after year, craving that peace and relaxation.”

Indeed, the exclusive, all-inclusive lodge, first built as a stopover for travelers en route to Yellowstone, has seen guests enjoy the benefits of nature immersion for almost 100 years. The lodge’s intimate size – it hosts a maximum of 36 people at a time and maintains a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio – ensures a pampering getaway from the everyday hustle and bustle with the opportunity for guided and unguided nature activities at a moment’s notice. And the lodge’s limited WiFi and lack of cell service creates a unique mountain retreat for travelers to truly get off the grid and get on the wilderness train.

Brooks Lake Lodge offers a variety of opportunities to immerse in the surrounding forest and water. Simply by being at the lodge, guests sit at 9,200 feet above sea level just one mile from the American Continental Divide with sweeping views of the Pinnacle Buttes, Austin’s Peak, Brooks Mountain and nearby Brooks Lake. As one guest put it after a hike, “Until I was at Brooks Lake Lodge, I never imagined what it would be like to look in every direction and see NO buildings. This is a life-changing experience.”

The onsite Rocky Mountain Spa is another way for Brooks Lake Lodge guests to maintain a healthy mind, body and spirit during a getaway. The spa offers guests a variety of wellness treatments, including massages and facials to soothe sore muscles and rejuvenate the skin.

The lodge also believes in the boosting of guest moods by means of incredible dining, incorporating fresh and local ingredients into Chef Whitney Hall’s breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that have continued to wow diners. Meals are served in the rustic Great Hall, featuring an array of rich flavors in a mountain-chic setting. And after a day’s adventures in the woods, guests can belly up to the on-site Cowboy bar at night for spirits including the lodge’s special Wyoming Whiskey Manhattan or Huckleberry Margarita before settling into a comfy lodge room or private cabin for a quiet slumber.


The all-inclusive rates at Brooks Lake Lodge include three gourmet meals plus a 4 p.m. Governor’s Tea Time daily, all guided activities and use of outdoor gear, plus spa access. Overnight stays during the summer season.

Brooks Lake Lodge Named to Best-in-world List by National Geographic Traveler

“Lake resorts let us drift away – both literally on a boat and figuratively from life’s everyday stressors and demands,” writes National Geographic Traveler magazine as an introduction to its just-released “Best List” of 21 Lake Resorts in the world – which includes Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa in Wyoming. The article recognizes just five lake resorts in the U.S on the international list and promotes exclusive, all-inclusive Brooks Lake Lodge as a “Going Off Grid” option for its deep connection with its secluded national forest setting near Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park, including the adjacent 260-acre alpine Brooks Lake.

National Geographic Traveler suggests that visitors to Brooks Lake Lodge forget using technology and instead opt for outdoor activities at the historic lodge, built in 1922 as a stopover for people traveling to Yellowstone. At Brooks Lake Lodge networking with nature is the best way to create a successful and healthy mind-body connection. And while there is a WiFi option for those who must stay connected, the real hot spot can be best found lakeside and mountaintop.

Located near Dubois, Wyoming, in the Shoshone National Forest, Brooks Lake Lodge rejuvenates its new and returning guests with its unique combination of nature immersion and indoor luxury with elegantly rustic lodge rooms and private cabins as well as a pampering on-site spa. The lodge is perched above Brooks Lake, discovered in 1889 by Bryant B. Brooks, who became governor of Wyoming in 1905.

Guests can choose from an array of guided or unguided adventures like hiking, horseback riding and fishing in the backcountry of Shoshone National Forest – with its extensive system of rivers and lakes – or learning pioneer-era activities such as archery or paddling a canoe around scenic Brooks Lake. Or simply relax with a game of chess in the lobby or at the outdoor tables overlooking Brooks Lake while sipping a Huckleberry Margarita.

With adventure comes hunger and at Brooks Lake Lodge, all-inclusive innovative meals from acclaimed Chef Whitney Hall, recently hailed by Food & Beverage magazine and the Los Angeles Times, are served to guests in the historic dining hall with its giant stone fireplace and a variety of thoughtful Western art. Dinner entrees include a tenderloin of beef roulade, Cajun diver scallops, and a portabella stack, while lunches offer ahi tuna wontons over a nutrient-packed seaweed salad, the jalapeno Pinnacles Popper dip, elk sloppy Joes, Whit’s Wild West chili, and backcountry chicken tenders to name a few.

Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa Showcases Old West and New West in Winter Getaway

The Old West and the New West dovetail seamlessly into a Real West experience in the exceptionally comfortable winter getaway offered at Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa, a nearly 100-year-old historical Wyoming guest ranch that features the best of present-day pampering partnered with the simple pleasures of the past.

The exclusive, all-inclusive luxury ranch snugs against the statuesque pines of Shoshone National Forest at 9,200 feet, with the Pinnacle Buttes as a stunning backdrop. An easy five miles beyond the nearest paved road – accessible via dogsled, snowmobile or tracked vehicle – this quiet and remote resort offers a comprehensive roster of on-site winter activities, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing and ice fishing.

The goal at Brooks Lake Lodge is always to offer guests the experience of nearly a century’s worth of gracious service, as well as fuss-free comforts and access to healthy and enjoyable outdoor adventure, says GM Adam Long. “From the peaceful setting to the attention to details, we love to share our Real West home away from home.”

Guests can immerse themselves in the surrounding alpine environment, with its views of the Buttes, as well as Brooks Mountain and Richard’s Peak, as they ski the groomed area around the lodge or snowshoe around the frozen Brooks Lake and up to higher elevations for a panoramic peek at the Wind River and Gros Ventre mountains. For an ungroomed experience, the backcountry powder of the forest awaits, and Brooks Lake Lodge provides an expert guide to help navigate and spot the plethora of wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, moose and deer, who are out foraging in the fluffy snow. Meanwhile, those who prefer to see it all from the comfort and convenience of a heated vehicle can do so on a guided wildlife excursion.

Snowmobile enthusiasts can spend an exhilarating half or full day exploring the forest and endless snow-covered countryside on a high-performance Polaris RMK, led by a guide who loves to share hidden secret spots and the wide-open boulevards with space enough for speed. Ski and snowshoe rentals with easy, adjustable bindings, aluminum crampons and premium ski boots, as well as fishing rods, lures, bait, ice huts and refreshments – and even the guides – are all included with a stay (additional fees apply for snowmobiling).

Once back at the cozy and elegantly rustic lodge, a crackling fire awaits, along with a peaceful night’s rest. Lodge rooms are individually decorated with handcrafted lodge pole pine furnishings and goose-down comforters, while heated cabins sport wood-burning stoves, an invitation to relax and watch the snow fall and the wildlife mill about.

Also included with a stay: an appealing variety of hearty, from-scratch fireside feasts prepared by Chef Whitney Hall (as described by Food & Beverage magazine), served in the historical dining hall and a unique afternoon Governor’s tea time – all harking back to a more restful and satisfying time. In a nod to more modern indulgences, a full range of spa services – such as a hot stone massage or fruit active glow facial – are available at the on-site Rocky Mountain Spa.

Brooks Lake Lodge Is Fishing Heaven

As Tom Brokaw once said, “If fishing is religion, fly fishing is high church.” Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa seconds the idea. The luxury historic lodge located deep in the Shoshone National Forest is pure heaven for fishing enthusiasts with its remote location and trout teeming in rivers and lakes. “Late summer is a great time of year to be at the lodge, and fishing enthusiasts travel from all over to stay with us and enjoy our lakes, streams and mountains,” says Adam Long, Brooks Lake Lodge general manager. “As an avid fisherman myself, it’s rewarding to hear our guests’ great fishing stories, so we wanted to create a package that will take advantage of this special outdoor sporting experience.”

In addition to fishing, the lodge’s all-inclusive plan offers a selection of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, horseback riding and archery. Guests can both recharge and unwind at the lodge as they enjoy the variety of gourmet offerings in the dining hall and later belly up to the Cowboy Bar for a fine selection of spirits, wines and beer. And the plush beds in the suites and cabins combined with quiet Wyoming nights make for wonderfully restful evenings.

Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa, a 100-year-old historic guest ranch near Jackson Hole, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, is located one mile from the North American Continental Divide, with views of the Pinnacle Buttes, Austin’s Peak and Brooks Mountain. Surrounded by evergreen forests, wildlife and Brooks Lake, the exclusive, all-inclusive Wyoming Rocky Mountain resort offers five-star service, luxury accommodations and gourmet dining. The new separate spa facility was built with Western Craftsman-style detailing to complement the historic lodge. A dude ranch by summer and ski and snowmobile haven in the winter, the lodge provides year-round activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa is Wyoming’s Exclusive Snowy Hideaway

With its final 5-mile approach accessible only by dog sled, snowmobile or track vehicle in winter, Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa, a secluded guest ranch hidden within the Shoshone National Forest near Yellowstone and Jackson Hole, offers an ultimate – intimate – snowy resort experience. Situated at an elevation of 9,200 feet and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, the exclusive, all-inclusive resort provides a luxurious private Wyoming escape. A true haven for snow enthusiasts, the historic lodge is set on a 300-acre alpine lake and offers a variety of lodge rooms and luxurious private cabins with dramatic views.

Brooks Lake Lodge guests choose from numerous guided or unguided winter activities included with overnight stays. Snowmobilers can explore roughly two million acres of snowy terrain, cruising on mild backcountry trails or testing the limits on uphill climbs and carving through deep snow on new high-performance machines. Cross-country skiers can glide over miles of groomed trails (cross country skis, step-in bindings and premium boots included).

Or strap on snowshoes (snowshoes, adjustable bindings and aluminum crampons included) for a wintery nature walk through the Shoshone National Forest packed with natural landmarks. Winter guests can also try their hand at ice fishing on Brooks Lake, alive with trout swimming two feet beneath the ice for catch-and-release excitement – or bring the catch back to the lodge for the master chef to prepare for the evening meal (fishing rods, lures, bait, ice huts and refreshments all included). Guests can also enjoy a Rocky Mountain Safari through the surrounding countryside with an expert guide pointing out the local wildlife. And everyone can appreciate sliding down the snow hill at Brooks Lake Lodge in snow tubes.

After a day out on the snow, return to the lodge for Governor’s Tea time, a 4:30 p.m. tradition that offers a variety of fruits, cheeses, cookies and crumpets served with hot drinks around a fire crackling in one of the resort’s four giant stone fireplaces. Later, settle in for a hearty dinner with a gourmet selection of premium seafood, beef, game and poultry entrees.

For cozy indoor relaxation while the snow flies, the 3,000-square-foot on-site Rocky Mountain Spa offers a menu of treatments including sports massage to soothe tired muscles. And guests can stop by anytime for a soak in the 11-by-17-foot hot tub overlooking Brooks Lake and the Rocky Mountains. In the evening, belly up to the Cowboy Bar to sip from a wide selection of spirits while recounting the day’s snowy adventures.

Brooks Lake Lodge Leads “Transformational Experiences” Travel Trend


With its setting in the wilds of Wyoming and elegantly rustic decor, luxury guest ranch Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa has it all, including an abundance of outdoor activities, an inviting and relaxing spa, and a carefully preserved setting. Travelers are seeking destinations that have the capacity to take “experiential” to the next level, with uncommon surroundings and once-in-a-lifetime activities steeped in nature. With “The Total Package” at Brooks Lake Lodge, guests can experience a connection to nature during a spectacular season in a secluded mountain setting while still enjoying the comforts of a luxurious lodge.

“The nature-rich outdoor amenities at Brooks Lake Lodge are an ideal backdrop for travelers motivated by a longing for deeper connections to indigenous environments,” says Brooks Lake Lodge General Manager Adam Long. “While our all-inclusive approach ensures that a Brooks Lake Lodge stay is always a ‘total package,’ we wanted to emphasize the message with this special pricing-plus-spa opportunity for the beautiful late summer season. This new package offers the opportunity to cross off multiple bucket list items while immersed in our unique Rocky Mountain landscape.”

Built in 1922 and located near Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park, Brooks Lake Lodge nourishes body and soul through its rare combination of pioneer-era ambience, sumptuous accommodations, pampering spa and modern amenities. Guests can choose from an appealing array of adventures with life-changing potential, including hiking, horseback riding and fishing in the backcountry of Shoshone National Forest — with its extensive system of rivers and lakes teeming with trout — as well as learn new skills or practice old favorites in the impressive alpine atmosphere, such as archery with mountains framing the targets, or canoeing around scenic Brooks Lake.

In addition to the outdoor activities, the Lodge’s all-inclusive plan includes use of the full-service spa with its tranquility room, dry sauna, fitness room and 11-by-17-foot hot tub with incredible mountain views. All guest meals also are included; the chef serves hearty Western breakfasts each morning, filling lunches at noon, Governor’s Tea with hors d’oeuvres for an afternoon pick-me-up, and gourmet dinners every night. The Western saloon-style Cowboy Bar within the lodge offers a fun and casual nighttime entertainment environment with a large selection of spirits.

Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa Is Ultimate Winter Snow Sports Destination

Set in the Rocky Mountain wilds of Wyoming, luxury guest ranch Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa proves the ideal winter destination for snow sports lovers. The U.S. trade group SnowSports Industries America reports that more than 22 million people participate in some kind of snow sports activity, with more than 4 million riders hopping on a snowmobile annually, making the intimate winter experience at Brooks Lake Lodge a coveted backcountry getaway for outdoor adventurers.

Tucked away in Shoshone National Forest backcountry but within easy driving distance to Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, Brooks Lake Lodge is unrivaled for snow sports enthusiasts looking for the rare combination of nature-rich outdoor amenities and sumptuous accommodations. And with better-than-average snowfall predicted for the region, the historic lodge is set to open for its winter season.

Guests of all ages can choose from an appealing array of snow adventures at the lodge, all covered by the all-inclusive plan – from backcountry skiing and snowshoeing to ice fishing in alpine 234-acre Brooks Lake (any trout that guests catch can be brought back to be cooked up for dinner by the lodge chef). Expert-guided wildlife excursions spot animals that have migrated down from the highlands to winter near the lodge. But by far the most popular winter sport at Brooks Lake Lodge is snowmobiling on the more than 2 million acres of pristine national forest and ranchland, surrounded by spectacular views of the Pinnacle Buttes, Brooks Mountain and Richard’s Peak. As this video shows, snowmobiling guests can enjoy challenging themselves in the “steep and deep” or opt for a more leisurely ride on groomed trails.

“Our unique setting here in the Rockies and our all-inclusive setup make this an incomparable choice for travelers looking to escape to a place where they can really immerse themselves in the environment,” says Brooks Lake Lodge General Manager Adam Long. “Guests get the opportunity to explore the area and feel like they are an integral part of this magnificent natural experience.”

Built in 1922, Brooks Lake Lodge features elegantly rustic interiors and an inviting and relaxing full-service spa, complete with a tranquility room, dry sauna, fitness room and 11-by-17-foot hot tub with incredible mountain views. Lodge rooms are individually decorated with handcrafted furnishings of lodgepole pine and goose down comforters, while heated cabins sport wood-burning stoves and inviting sitting and dining areas, some with fireplaces and whirlpool or clawfoot tubs. And each room comes with spa robes and free WiFi.

In addition, all guest meals are included and fit in well with a winter getaway: The chef serves hearty Western breakfasts each morning, filling lunches at noon, Governor’s Tea with hors d’oeuvres for an afternoon pick-me-up, and gourmet dinners every night. Meanwhile, the Cowboy Bar within the lodge serves up fun and casual nighttime entertainment, along with an extensive selection of spirits.

Travel site Only in Your State recently showcased Brooks Lake Lodge as one of Wyoming’s must-visit destinations – free from crowds, remote yet easily accessible, and packed with immersive experiences. The article lauded the lodge as “the perfect place if you want to get away from it all.”