Winter in Jackson Hole strikes a chord with destination skiers like few places do. Whether you are dreaming up your next drop into Corbet’s Couloir or prefer to stick to the cruisers off of Apres Vous, we know that feeling of waiting in anticipation for the first snow report—even if it’s only July.
Jackson Hole is easily one of the most famous ski resorts in the USA, and for good reason. There are over 130 runs across 2,500 acres, many designed for intermediate to expert skiers.
But even the most dedicated skiers enjoy seeing another side of Jackson Hole. It’s an area that personifies adventure, a bustling resort town surrounded by the world-renowned nature of Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone.
Ready to discover what’s beyond the famous Jackson Hole Resort? Here are a few unique activities that show you a side of Jackson Hole you can’t miss.
Embark on a Snowy Safari With EcoTour Adventures
In the least populated state in the USA, Wyoming offers a glimpse into the rugged Wild West. Want to get away from it all? You’ll likely run into far more wildlife than people when visiting this slice of snowy paradise near the Grand Tetons on an EcoTour Adventures Safari.
For $189 per person, you can set off in a 4x4 cruiser with a trained expert driver and guide. Not only are the vehicles (thankfully) heated, but they aim to give every rider a prime view from a window seat.
The experience is ideal for children and adults of nearly any age. Tablets inside the vehicle are ideal for following along on a map or learning more about wildlife through photos and diagrams. You also get a pair of binoculars, which make it much easier to identify wildlife from afar.
Tours are available as private excursions if you have a larger group. If it’s just you and a travel partner—not to worry—you can book single seats on a shared tour.
What can you expect to see on the wilderness safari? On the four-hour wilderness drive, you can get up close and personal with bison, bighorn sheep, moose, and even wolves. The winter tours are open from November through April and depart from 210 North Cache Street in downtown Jackson.
Explore the Frosty Wilderness Trails on a Snowmobiling Tour
It might not seem like it from the comforts of Jackson Hole Resort, but you are a short drive away from some of the most remote nature anywhere in the USA. While all four seasons are ideal for exploring the vast landscape of mountains, rivers, and forests—winter offers a unique chance to experience the Wyoming wilderness in its most quiet and beautiful state.
BrushBuck Wildlife Tours is a local, veteran-operated tour company that offers wildlife tours for snowmobilers of all skill levels. Beginners can develop their skills on AM or PM tours along the Turpin Meadow Trail for $350 per driver and $295 per passenger. The tour includes pickup/drop off, a snowsuit, boots, helmet, and two hours of riding.
However, their most unique and exciting tour is a trip through the pristine wintery trails of Yellowstone National Park. Choose between a full-day excursion through the park’s canyon to Yellowstone Falls or a trip to the legendary geyser Old Faithful. Both tours start at $525 for a single driver or $855 for a tandem ride.
You’ll get picked up and dropped off at your hotel, and the package includes breakfast, lunch, and a thrill of a lifetime.
Drop in on Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding Excursions
While some resorts frown upon backcountry skiing, Jackson Hole has run with the idea of skiing ungroomed runs for over 30 years. “Trails” like Casper Bowl and The Crags are just steps away from the groomers but offer a chance to hike in and drop down some of the most challenging terrain in the world.
But for skiers who have a “been there/done that” approach to Jackson Hole Resort, some incredible tours are available to take your ski weekend to the next level.
Cat-skiing is one popular way to explore backcountry trails, as snowcats (ski hill grooming machines) can access terrain that would otherwise take hours to reach on foot. You can arrange a shared or private tour with companies like CatSkiingTours.com or directly through resorts. Prices start at $450 per person.
But there’s another option for the most adventurous, experienced skiers and snowboarders—heli-skiing.
High Mountain Heli-Skiing hosts some of the most exclusive ski and snowboard packages in Jackson, taking you high up on four mountain ranges near Jackson Hole. A single-day heli package offers advanced skiers and snowboarders a chance to shred down six different runs with a trained guide, safety equipment, and lunch.
It’s a full day that will set you up with the most incredible views of the snow-white landscape from above before carving down the gnarliest mountains in Jackson Hole.
Pack Your Bags
Leave the planning to us! The Lodging Company is ready to help you experience the most incredible winter adventure at the esteemed Jackson Hole Resort. From high-adrenaline tours to laid-back resorts, we’ve got you covered.