Bed and breakfasts -- small, intimate, charming. They're all over the world, and their popularity is growing. For many, these quaint inns are the perfect getaway for some private time or a romantic escape.
Most B&Bs are not run by large corporations, so visitors are usually able to talk person-to-person with the owner. This one-on-one interaction adds to the tradition of familiarity.Usually, B&Bs are renovated homes. However, there are exceptions, and the Jackson Fork Inn is one of them.
Owned by Viki Peterson, the Jackson Fork Inn is now located off Ogden Valley's Trappers Loop. The inn began as a dairy barn -- in fact the most up-to-date barn in the area for its time -- and was originally built in the township of Huntsville, which is two miles from its current location.
In the 1960s, Peterson's father turned this property into the "Rocking P Saloon." The bar only used the ground level, so the upper area of the barn was left untouched.
Following this initial renovation, the dairy went through a couple more changes before becoming the Jackson Fork Inn.
There is a definite feeling of home when you walk into one of the two-story rooms at the Jackson Fork Inn. Each has two beds, one in the loft and one on the main level, and a working bath. Four of the eight rooms have a jetted tub, and all are non-smoking.
The suites are individually decorated and have quite a rustic charm. With ample space to move freely about the rooms, guests feel as if they have more privacy than they would in a hotel. It's pretty much just like staying at Grandma's.
Downstairs there's the Jackson Fork Inn's restaurant. The bread is fresh, the meals are hot and the price is quite affordable. The restaurant is just as cozy as the rooms, and Peterson assures friendly service. A brunch is served on Sunday mornings, and there is a continental breakfast waiting for guests every day.
Near Snowbasin, Powder Mountain and Nordic Valley ski resorts, the inn's location is prime for skiers wanting something other than a hotel or condo.
The Jackson Fork Inn also works for those summer retreats since it is nestled next to the Pine View Reservoir.
However, the inn is nice for anyone who simply wants to leave the city. And if you're looking for things to do other than ski or play in the water, the Trappist Monk monastery, the Abbey of the Holy Trinity, is nearby. Listen to the chants and buy some bread and honey.
You can also venture into Huntsville to pop into the Shooting Star Saloon and taste the best burgers in Utah.
The inn is usually booked on the weekends, but because the resorts in the area are closed for the time being, business has been slow.
Rooms run $60 to $110 and are reduced for extended stays of five days or more. The number for reservations is 1-435-745-0051.