Snow King Mountain may play second fiddle to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the winter, since it’s smaller and offers less skiable terrain, but come summer it’s a whole new story. Don’t get us wrong plenty of summer fun can still be had at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort once the snow is gone, but for those who want some adventure without having to leave the town of Jackson then look no further than Snow King Mountain. This in-town resort is a short walk from the Town Square (just head towards the biggest mountain you see). At Snow King there’s no need to drive out of town for some fun family adventure. In fact there’s so much adventure to be had at Snow King, you and your family will feel like real life action figures come to life. The resort is continually adding new great outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy along with all the classics that they are known for every summer. Snow King makes for a great all day outing right in the heart of Jackson.
Cowboy Coaster
One of the newest attractions to Snow King Mountain is the Cowboy Coaster. It’s essentially your own personal mountain roller coaster that offers amazing views and on-mountain thrills. Riders are whisked 456 vertical feet up Snow King Mountain and then let loose down a track in their own sled, equipped with a hand brake that controls speed. Go as fast or as slow as you want, with top speeds maxing out at 25 MPH. No need to worry about steering as your sled is secured to the track and designed to follow every hairpin curve before you. Ride solo or with a little one. Riders must be at least 38” tall to ride and 54” tall to drive. The ride up is 5.5 minutes and the approximately mile of track ride down can be done in under 2 minutes or longer for those wanting more of a leisurely ride. Driver tickets start at $20 a ride, passengers $10. Or since you’ll most likely want to do it again, spring for a driver 5-pack for $80/passenger 5-pack for $40. You can grab your tickets at Snow King Mountain Sports. No special gear or clothing necessary, although sunglasses are a good idea to protect against the mountain sun and wind. Open from 9am to 6pm, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Treetop Adventure
Billed as “Swiss Family Robinson meets X-Games” this one of a kind adventure for the old and new school alike will literally allow you and your family to play high up among the trees. On this wonderfully designed course you’ll be able to zip line, cross suspension bridges and swinging logs, and much more. The adult course, which is 5 courses in all, can be done in about 3 to 4 hours. This includes checking in and a safety course orientation. The kid’s course takes about 1 to 2 hours. The full adult course for ages 12 and up costs $70. The kid’s course for ages 7 and up costs $40. No special training is necessary, just be physically fit and wear appropriate footwear and clothing (no sandals, flip-flops, loose baggy clothing, necklaces, or bracelets). The Treetop Adventure course opens at 10am and other times by reservation. For more info on the course or group pricing call (307) 201-1566.
Alpine Slide
The Alpine Slide is the classic mountain summer time adventure and the only one you will find in Jackson. The course will take you down 350 feet over a half mile track at speeds as fast as 25 MPH. You can control your speed via a hand brake. The resort offers two side-by-side tracks, so you can see who the fastest alpine slider in the family really is. A trip down the slide typically takes between 2 to 3 minutes. A single ride on the Alpine Slide will cost you $15 or snag a 5 ride pass for $60. Children 2 to 6 must ride with an adult. Open 10am to 6pm depending on the weather.
Bungee Trampoline
Get your bounce on and more on the Bungee Trampoline. It’s like joining the circus and busting all those aerials you always wanted to in a quick 2-minute session, so yeah no life long commitment here. You’ll be securely fastened in via harness, with no worries about your sudden fear of heights or hasty return back to earth. It’s a win-win for everyone as kids get to jump around and bust out their best tricks and parents can watch on in amazement. A 2-minute jump session starts at just $10 or if your kids want to keep the bounce going, get a 5 pack of 2-minute sessions for $45.
Paragliding
It’s one thing to stand on top of a mountain and check out the view, but it’s a whole other type of thrill to fly off one and paraglide high above the valley and be the view. Don’t worry you won’t have to do it by yourself as you’ll glide in tandem with a professional paragliding pilot. It’s sure to be an experience you will never forget. Get airborne in a tandem flight for $195 or do a flight with a GoPro to impress everyone you know and the entire internet for $245. A frequent flyer program of 2 or more flights will bring your ticket price down to $175 a ride. For more info, call (307) 690-8726.
Scenic Chairlift Ride
A Scenic Chairlift Ride to the top of Snow King will give you the best views around without having to hike for them and yes people hike to the top everyday. A 12 to 17 minute ride to the top (yes you would still be hiking) will bring you gently up 1,571 feet to the summit. The 360 degree views are simply amazing. Tickets for adults 13 to 64 years old are $17. Juniors, 12 and under $12. Seniors, 65 and older $12. Kids 6 and under are free. Or if you really did hike to the top you can score a ride down and save your knees for just $5.
Hiking
Work off that bison burger and fries by going for a hike to the top of Snow King. The 1.8 mile trail will take you to the summit where you most definitely earned the stunning views. Hiking is free, unless you take the lift down for $5, which very well could be the best $5 you ever spend. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Bouldering
Bouldering in Phil Baux Park, which is at the base of Snow King offers a great opportunity for the budding or beginner rock climber in your family. The bouldering park is free and also has picnic tables and horseshoe pits for those who feel safer on the ground. Climbing shoes and a chalk bag are helpful but not required. Keep the canines at home as dogs aren’t allowed in the park.
Action and adventure begins May 20 at Snow King Mountain. Starring you and your family!
