Winter in Jackson Hole is epic, period! The Tetons are covered in fresh snow and everyday feels like a snow day off from school. Everyone just wants to get outside and play in the powder. Here’s your list of can’t miss Jackson Hole winter activities to do when visiting this western winter wonderland, so make time for as many as you can. Don’t worry it will be snowing soon enough.
10) Ice Skating on the Town Square
It might not be famed Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, but with views of a lit up Snow King Mountain and way less crowded, it might just be better. So grab your skates or rent them there and skate around the Town Square. If you get cold or tired take a break with some hot chocolate and enjoy the live music.
9) Winter Bike Tours
Bust out the fat bikes and hit the snow-covered road. Biking isn’t just a summer sport any more; with over sized tires, wide rims, and frames with large forks, fat bikes are now the most efficient mode of travel on snow (sorry skiers). There are plenty of fat bike tour packages to choose from that include scenic trails in Grand Teton National Park and the National Elk Refuge. Get more info on bike tours at www.tetonmtbike.com or stop in at any number of bike shops in the valley.
8) Snow King Mountain
Don’t overlook the local town hill, Snow King Mountain, if you are staying in town. Although much smaller than Jackson Hole or Grand Targhee it still offers plenty of steep and mellow terrain. It’s also your one and only place to get your night skiing fix in the area if you somehow didn’t get enough during the day. And it always seems like you go faster down the hill at night.
7) Sled Dog Tours
Here’s your chance to see what it’s like to be in the legendary Iditarod Sled Dog Race for a day. Luckily, you won’t exactly be roughing it as you’ll be served a hearty lunch and get a chance to take a dip in the warm and inviting waters of Granite Hot Springs (full day tour only). Half-day tours hit the same scenic trail, but don’t offer lunch or a hot spring dip. Don’t worry you’ll still get served a hot beverage and soup. You can even drive a team of dogs if you want or simply sit back and enjoy the ride.
6) Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is quite possibly the most tranquil way to enjoy all that this valley has to offer in winter. Strap some snowshoes to your feet and get out into Grand Teton National Park and do some exploring. Guided tours from local outfitters are available as well if you don’t want to rough it alone. Look for animals and just get away from it all on a blue bird day in the mountains of Jackson Hole. Enjoy the solitude of this amazing place and bond with the family while breaking trail.
5) Snow Coach
The roads in Yellowstone might be closed but you can still check out all the wildlife and even Old Faithful via a breathtaking Snow Coach tour of the Park. Enjoy the solitude of beautiful Yellowstone in winter in a climate controlled Snow Coach and have the Park practically to yourself. Your guided group will make several stops along the way at scenic and geothermal hotspots. Various companies offer all types of packages, so check online to see what trip works best for you.
4) Grand Targhee Resort
Looking for a change of pace head over Teton Pass into Idaho and then back into Wyoming and check out Grand Targhee, which gets so much powder they only make snow on the beginner runs. Targhee, although not as big as Jackson Hole Mountain Resort still offers plenty of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain to wear out any skier or rider. Lift lines are pretty much nonexistent and powder from storms lasts for days.
3) Snowmobiling
Jackson is a premier destination for snowmobiling in the country. The opportunities are basically endless for those wishing to get out there and rip some pow on their sleds. You really can’t wrong, with chances to ride pow or groomed trails in Togowtee, Grand Teton, or Yellowstone National Park. Make sure to dress warmly in winter clothing and let your snowmobile company outfit you with the rest of the essential gear. Bring a camera to capture all the amazing wildlife and scenery you’ll be cruising by. Hands down one of the best ways to see Jackson Hole in winter.
2) Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride
Pretty much a must on your Jackson Hole winter bucket list. You’re also guaranteed to get up close and personal and see some real western wildlife. Your horse drawn sleigh driver also pulls double duty as your knowledgeable guide and can fill you in the history of the National Elk Refuge. It’s pretty much an epic experience to get out into the herd and observe them feeding and hanging out. Dress warm as weather conditions vary and feel free to take advantage of the blankets that are provided if you get chilled. Rides are $19 for adults and $15 for children.
1) Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Epic mountain, check. Tons of pow, check. Your checklist is essentially complete as you are about to ride some of the best terrain of your dreams. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the big one and boasts some of the longest continuous vertical in the lower 48. Basically everything you could ever ask for in a ski resort is waiting just under your ski tips. A must is a ride to the top of Rendezvous Bowl via the tram, but there are also plenty of powder stashes and runs accessible from the gondola. Skiing and riding at it’s finest, with plenty of readily accessible backcountry. There’s Jackson and then there is everything else.
