Has anyone ever gone to a rodeo in Jackson, Wyoming? The only events I'm finding are held by "Wyoming Rodeo with the JH Rodeo Company". The cost is pretty cheap but I'm wondering if it is lame or actually fairly authentic. Basically I want to feel that I've had a real rodeo experience and not witnessed a carnival act. Although some might feel that any rodeo is a carnival act! Please note that areas very close to Jackson are my only option for this so I'm not looking for suggestions for other locations like Cody or Cheyenne at this time. TIA.

I have not been to the rodeo in Jackson but have been to the one in Cody and that was very authentic. These areas are rodeo country and I am sure they are very much the real thing all over. From my understanding they travel from rodeo to rodeo to compete. I have also been to Cheyenne for the stampede in July. If you can get there that was the best. I believe the stampede is a week long and any part you could get to would be worthwhile. We sat in the stands right near the chutes and it was amazing. Also if you go to Cheyenne they do a parade in town and a pancake breakfast another great event not to be missed.

Hmm... I hadn't thought about where to sit. So do you think near the chutes are the best place to sit or is there another area that would be better if I had my pick?

At the Cody rodeo, we sat direction across from the chutes. You could see the whole bull ride that way, even if it lasted a couple seconds!

Never knew about a rodeo in Jackson while we were there. Saw no ads form it or anything.

Went to the rodeo in Cody also. Best seats were on top of the shoots bcs of the sun being in your face opposite them. The rodeo was much more dangerous than I had expected (duh - guess it was just me) and several riders got really hurt including a 10 yr old boy. Would not ever want to go again so be prepared for that.

Thanks for your insight. It sounds like I'll need to consider where the sun will be in relation to the seats. I'm surprised to hear that someone as young as 10 would be doing the riding. Wow. I am completely aware of the fact that I could be disgusted with the entire event for a variety of reasons but it is still one of those things that I feel like I need to do. I've spent a lot of time out west but have never been before. I thought Wyoming should be a good place for it. I appreciate your feedback.

There is a rodeo in Jackson, google for the Chamber of Commerce to find out when.

I think it was late June or early July. We didn't go but saw the write-up in the paper.

Yes, thank you, I know there is a rodeo in Jackson... that is what I was asking about. I'm looking for feedback from anyone who has gone to it. If anyone out there has experience I'd love to hear from you.

Here is a link to an authentic rodeo in Star Valley, Wyoming, just about 30 or 40 miles south of Jackson. It is in conjuction witn the Lincoln County Fair, and is always fun. This is local, not put on by a professional touring rodeo company. My young cousin won the barrel racing event several years in a row when she was younger.

Oops, I forgot the link.

http://www.starvalley.com/Lincoln_Co...and_Rodeo.html

I went to the rodeo in Jackson, WY, in September 2007. I'd never been to a rodeo before, nor had I ever wanted to go to one...but I'm glad I went. It didn't seem very "carnival" like to me at all. It seemed like a bunch of families and junior high/high schoolers out for an evening of fun. I did not enjoy the bull riding (especially when our horseback riding guide got trampled a bit...he was the one who told us about the rodeo), but I the barrel racing was impressive and fun to watch.

Can't give you any advice on where to sit, though.

Not sure about the comment about sitting in the sun...the rodeo I went to was at night.

We used to go to Jackson every year and stay at a wonderful guest ranch there.I love to horseback ride and DH loves to fish so it was perfect for both of us. Jackson has 2 rodeos every week from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The competitors are the local wranglers from the many guest ranches in the area. Also lots of local kids..It is pretty much amateur hour but if you have not seen one before you might enjoy it. Just bear in mind these are not the pros.Sit directly across from the chutes unless the sun is directly in your eyes.I am a animal lover and lifelong horse owner so I have real problems with the way the broncs and bulls are treated.I think all rodeos should be shut down.So should the circus for that matter.Sorry,hate to rain on your parade.
If you want to really have a blast do the whitewater rafting through the Snakeriver canyon. I think the outfitters name is Hansen.You will get very wet but it is so much fun!!The Jackson Hole area including Yellowstone is a beautiful area.Watch out for bears!!!

Just thought I would add that all rodeos are all to real. They are NOT carnival acts.