Kelly

 

The unincorporated Town of Kelly is located northeast of Jackson, about a 20-minute drive. This small quaint town was settled in the late 1890s as “Grovont” and nearly became the valley’s county seat. However, in May of 1927, the town was destroyed by a natural dam formed by a large landslide that had occurred two years earlier, known as the Gros Ventre Slide. Heavy snow and an exceptionally wet spring were too much for the natural dam to handle. Lower Slide Lake exploded downstream and destroyed the Town of Kelly and caused major damage as far as Wilson, Wyoming, about 14 miles downstream. Luckily, residents noticed signs of the collapse coming and were able to evacuate nearly everyone. With Kelly destroyed, Jackson became the primary town for surrounding settlements. Now, Kelly is a small community of single-family homes, a post office/coffee shop, and an award-winning elementary school. The homes in Kelly range from historical log cabins overlooking the Gros Ventre River to yurts and from modest traditional homes to ultra-luxury homes. The Kelly Highlands is a section of Kelly with large lots elevated on a butte with breathtaking Teton and valley views. The Kelly Highlands borders the National Elk Refuge to the south. The momentous views of the Grand Tetons and proximity to both Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest make Kelly a special place indeed. However, the historical significance and eclectic style of homes, horse properties, and ranches make Kelly immeasurably unique to the Jackson Hole landscape.