Smaller Wyoming tourism businesses are taking environmental sustainability seriously, too. The Alpine House Inn & Spa in Jackson recently became the first lodging property in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem to offset 100 percent of its electrical usage by buying wind credits. Through a "Green Power" program offered by local utility Lower Valley Energy, Alpine House proprietors Nancy and Hans Johnstone make the investment to support renewable energy sources and reduce the use of fossil fuels.

Alpine House has other green initiatives, too. The inn uses 100 percent all-natural citrus cleaning products, locally made organic bath amenities and fair-trade coffee. All of its common areas, and some guest rooms, use energy-efficient radiant heat, and guests have access to free bicycles to use during their stay. (At just two blocks north of the Jackson town square, the inn is within easy walking or cycling distance to everywhere.)
"We are just trying to do what we can," says Nancy Johnstone. "The tourism business is traditionally very high-impact on the environment. We hope that by having our business do as little harm as possible, we can set an example in the industry. We will continue to provide our guests with excellent quality and service, and invite them to join in our environmental efforts during their stay."