Your Fun Guide to Skiing in Jackson Hole: Resorts, Runs & Powder Tips
Howdy, snow lovers! Welcome to Jackson Hole, Wyoming—where the mountains are tall, the moose roam free, and the skiing? Oh, it’s chef’s kiss glorious. Whether you’re a fearless powder hound aiming for Corbet’s Couloir (aka “The Cliff of Insanity”) or a newbie just trying to stay upright, Jackson Hole has your snowy dreams covered—literally, with 500+ inches of fresh powder.
Let’s zip up that jacket, pop on those goggles, and dive into the ultimate guide to skiing in Jackson Hole. Hold onto your ski poles—it’s about to get slippery (in a fun way).
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR): The Big Kahuna of Steep and Deep
Let’s kick things off with the alpha mountain itself: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village. This isn’t your average bunny-hill kind of place. It’s got the biggest vertical drop in the U.S. (4,139 feet), and it dares you to test your courage—or, at the very least, your quads.
Why it rocks (and rolls you down steep chutes):
- 2,500+ acres of terrain
- A tram that feels like a scenic elevator to heaven
- Legendary powder that makes even adults squeal with joy
Must-ski runs:
- Corbet’s Couloir – The most Instagrammed cliff drop this side of the Rockies. Think of it as skydiving…with skis.
- Rendezvous Bowl – Wide open turns and panoramic views. You’ll cry tears of joy—frozen ones.
- Teewinot – Great for warming up or pretending you’re “just cruising today.”
For the chill crew:
JHMR might be known for gnarly terrain, but there’s plenty of love for beginners. The Solitude Station learning area and lower mountain green runs make sure nobody gets left behind (except maybe that one friend who’s still stuck on the chairlift).
Après tip: Slide into the Mangy Moose for drinks, live music, and people watching. It’s loud, legendary, and a little bit weird—just like your ski style.
Snow King Mountain: The Local’s Secret (Shhh… Don’t Tell Everyone)
If JHMR is the flashy celebrity, Snow King Mountain is the laid-back local with a flask in their ski jacket and a killer powder stash. Located right in downtown Jackson, it’s where the locals go for quick laps and night skiing under the stars.
What’s cool about the King:
- Night skiing! Ski till 7 p.m., then hit the town.
- Way fewer people. (Translation: shorter lift lines, more laps.)
- Great for families, beginners, and folks with “only one good knee left.”
Noteworthy runs:
- Cougar – Steep, scenic, and satisfying.
- Summit Ridge – For intermediate carvers and confident beginners who want a little spice.
Plus, there’s tubing, a mountain coaster, and ski lessons that won’t cost as much as your rent. It’s the kind of place you come for a casual ski day and end up staying for the community vibes (and the cheese fries).
Grand Targhee Resort: The Powder Pillow on the Other Side of the Tetons
Sure, Grand Targhee is a bit of a drive (you’ll technically pop into Idaho), but don’t worry—you’ll be back in Wyoming before you finish your coffee. This place is powder paradise, with over 500 inches of snow annually and a totally chill vibe.
Why you’ll love it:
- Fewer crowds = more powder for YOU
- Laid-back atmosphere—no one’s judging your wipeouts here
- Gorgeous glade runs and cruisy blues
Top runs to check out:
- Dreamcatcher lift takes you to dreamier powder than your last nap.
- Blackfoot has steeper fun with plenty of hidden stashes.
Grand Targhee is what happens when good snow, great views, and low-key energy all meet for a ski party—and you’re invited.
Choose Your Ski Adventure: Terrain by Skill Level
For Beginners:
- Teewinot Lift (JHMR) – Where snowplowers learn to shred.
- Shoshone (Grand Targhee) – A great place to master your turns without fear of flying off a cliff.
- Snow King’s base area – Gentle, friendly, and zero pressure (except from your overconfident cousin).
For Intermediates:
- Amphitheater and Casper Bowl (JHMR) – Smooth, scenic, and confidence-building.
- Lost Groomer (Targhee) – Wide, flowy runs that make you feel like a ski movie star.
For the Bold and the Brave:
- Corbet’s Couloir (JHMR) – Enter at your own risk, exit with serious bragging rights.
- Tower Three Chute & Alta Chutes – Steep, deep, and totally worth the quad burn.
Backcountry? More Like Wildcountry (Proceed With Powdery Caution)
Jackson Hole is backcountry heaven… but it’s not for the faint of heart or the unprepared.
Teton Pass:
- Locals love it.
- Powder galore.
- Avalanche risk? Also high. Always carry the gear: beacon, shovel, probe, and most importantly—common sense.
Pro tip: Book a guide with Exum Mountain Guides or Jackson Hole Mountain Guides if you’re venturing beyond the ropes. Safety first. Selfies second.
Learn to Ski Like a Rockstar (Without Falling Like One)
Whether you’re starting from scratch or just want to stop skiing like a shopping cart with a broken wheel, lessons help. And they’re everywhere:
- JHMR Ski School – High-end instructors for all ages.
- Snow King Ski School – Friendly, affordable, and great for kids.
- Adaptive programs available too—everyone deserves to shred.
Gear Up: Rentals & Shopping Without Snowblind Sticker Shock
Need gear? These shops have your back (and boots):
- Hoback Sports – Reliable rentals and friendly staff.
- Teton Village Sports – Right at the base of JHMR, super convenient.
- Snow King Mountain Sports – Easy in-town option with fair prices.
Demo some skis while you’re at it—you never know what kind of ride you’ll fall in love with.
Where to Crash After You Shred
Luxury & Ski-In/Ski-Out:
- Four Seasons Jackson Hole – For champagne skiers only.
- Teton Mountain Lodge – Cozy slopeside stay with a spa that saves your sore legs.
Budget-Friendly & Chill:
- The Hostel (Teton Village) – Cheap, cheerful, and full of ski bums like you.
- Elk Country Inn (Jackson) – Affordable, rustic, and close to Snow King.
Après-Ski Shenanigans: Where to Party in Your Snow Pants
- Mangy Moose – Wild, weird, and everything you want after skiing. Hang your helmet and dance.
- Snake River Brewing – Local beer, hearty food, and maybe a moose sighting.
- Handle Bar (Four Seasons) – Fancy drinks and fire pits? Yes, please.
When to Ski Jackson Hole (And When to Book That Trip)
- Best snow: January–February
- Best weather: March (sun + snow = happy skier)
- Least crowded: Early December and April
- Best for tan lines: April spring skiing, baby!
Packing List for Powder People
- Base layers (Merino wool = no stink)
- Goggles (sun + snow = blinding)
- Lip balm (dry lips = sad skier)
- Snacks for the lift (nobody skis well hangry)
- That one lucky hat you wear every season
Final Word: Just Go Ski It
Whether you’re hucking cliffs at JHMR, night-skiing at Snow King, or floating through freshies at Grand Targhee, Jackson Hole will steal your heart faster than a snowboarder in a terrain park. It’s wild. It’s magical. It’s got moose.
So grab your gear, your crew, and your sense of adventure. The slopes are calling—and they said wear something waterproof.
