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Jackson Hole winter guide
Jackson Hole Winter Guide
Jackson Hole is one of our favorite winter destinations for skiing. Even if you’re not an avid skier, there’s plenty of fun cold weather activities to go around.
Travel: There are 12 direct flights from major cities including LA, Seattle, Atlanta, Minneapolis. You could drive from Salt Lake or Denver, but it’s a haul.
Skiing
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Located at Teton Village, about 20 minutes outside of Jackson. The skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is world-class and humbles me every time. Most of the terrain (50%) is expert level, but there’s something for every level of skier, with pockets of amazing beginning and intermediate runs.
Insider Tip: If you’re on the beginner/intermediate side, the ‘Casper’ and ‘Après Vous’ lifts offer fun cruisers for any level.
Snow King: Nestled in the town of Jackson, Snow King is a great option for families. Lift lines tend to be shorter and night skiing is offered. In contrast to JH Mountain Resort, Snow King is a seemingly milder option, but don’t be deceived, it’s steep and icey.
Activities Outside of Skiing:
Skiing, especially at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, isn’t for everyone. Thankfully, there are a myriad of unique activities outside of skiing that showcase the majestic beauty of the area.
Snow Shoeing Grand Teton National Park: If you want to take a day off skiing and get closer to the Tetons, snowshoeing is a great option. Daily snow show rentals are available through Teton Backcountry Rentals.
Taggart Lake Trail (as photographed):
Other trail recommendations: Jenny Lake Trail (great for beginners).
Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling in the surrounding areas of Jackson Hole can be an exhilarating reprieve from skiing. We highly recommend cruising to Granite Hot Springs, which is only accessible by snowmobile in the winter. It’s quite the undertaking to rent your own snowmobiles and may not be conducive for your travels without a truck and experience loading/unloading the machines. Fortunately, there are companies that offer snowmobile day tours – see resources below.
Insider tip: Bring plenty of warm clothes, especially appropriate footwear (i.e., actual snow boots). I would pack hand/toe warmers too. Riding a snowmobile is inherently cold coupled with getting in/out of the hot springs.
Hot Springs:
Granite: As mentioned above, this hot springs is only accessible by snowmobile in the winter. Highly recommend!
Astoria: Located 40 minutes south of Jackson, Astoria Hot Springs is a gem & is accessible by car. As of this publication, reservations are still required so be sure to book your soak time in advance.
Accommodations:
If you’re skiing and able to swing a hotel at the base of Teton Village, that’s ideal.
Teton Village:
Hotel Terra ($$$$): Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort – conveniently a short walk away from the tram and Bridger Center, you’ll be at the center of the action in the village. The infinity hot tub is nice post-ski perk.
Four Seasons ($$$$$): Positioned above the Bridger Center, you’re steps away from the main gondola. Westbank Grill (located inside the Four Seasons) is an excellent dinner spot.
Gravity Haus ($$$): A slightly less expensive option positioned behind Hotel Terra.
Jackson Hole:
The Cloudveil ($$$$): Positioned steps away from the town square, this is one of our favorite hotels in town.
Less expensive options – Snow King Resort, 49’er Inn.
Après Ski – Teton Village:
Mangy Moose: This is an obligatory après spot, especially if it’s your first time to Jackson. First come, first serve so plan accordingly with the crowds. Food/drinks are reasonably priced – you may even hear some live music.
Corsa: Located in the Caldera House – a great spot for elevated pizza & superb Aperol Spritz’ (gin may be the secret ingredient). The aesthetics alone warrant a drink drop-in – reservations recommended.
Spur: This used to be one of our go-to, less trafficked spots, however, the most recent experience was subpar. Apart from that one-time, The Spur is usually great option for good salads, drinks, & burgers – reservations recommended.
Handlebar: Situated at the base of the Bridger Gondola within the Four Seasons, the location really is perfect. Expect long wait times and bustling crowds – the elk chili is a must. Reservations definitely recommended.
Where to Eat:
Our favorite dinner spots – The Kitchen, Snake River Grill, Westbank Grill. For breakfast, The Bunnery is an essential stop and you can’t go wrong with Persephone Bakery.
Additional recommendations – The Local, Shin Shin Sushi, The Bistro. Other must-try’s: Pinky G’s Pizza, D.O.G., Hatch.
Resources:
Snowshoe Rental: https://tetonbcrentals.com/gear/snowshoes/
Snowmobile Rental/Tour: https://www.tetontourco.com/scenic-wildlife-tours/granite-hot-springs/
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