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Typically when I think of vacations, my mind first drifts to tropical beaches, palm trees swaying in the wind, and my toes buried in warm sand. Planning a trip to a snowy mountain town during the coldest months of the year might seem like the last thing someone would want to do—but let me tell you, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, changed my perspective entirely.
Nestled in the heart of the Teton Mountains in Wyoming, Jackson Hole is a world-renowned ski destination that attracts thousands of visitors every winter. With its challenging terrain, breathtaking scenery, and authentic western charm, it's no wonder that Jackson Hole has become a bucket-list destination for skiers and snowboarders around the globe.
John and I went there for the very first time in March 2022, and we now talk about going back all of the time. But we are definitely not avid skiers and for first-time visitors, like us, planning a ski trip to Jackson Hole can be overwhelming. From deciding where to stay to choosing the best runs for your skill level, there are plenty of factors to consider when embarking on your first Jackson Hole ski adventure. That’s why I’m sharing some tips and suggestions I learned to help make your first trip to Jackson Hole a memorable one (even if you’re not a skier). From the best runs to the top après-ski activities, there is something for everyone at this legendary ski destination!
An Abbreviated 3-Day Itinerary
As a precursor, Jackson Hole is one of the premier ski destinations in the world, and that means it comes at a premium price. Partly due to cost, we only stayed for three nights and chose more budget-friendly options for our itinerary. You could easily drop thousands of dollars on a trip to this snowy destination by choosing a more luxurious hotel or skiing exclusively at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Where to Stay
Jackson Hole offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and style, from luxury lodges and vacation rentals to cozy inns. One thing to keep in mind is that Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is located in Teton Village, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Jackson. If you want ski-in, ski-out convenience at the area's largest and most popular ski resort, staying in Teton Village might be the way to go. Hotel Terra, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, and Gravity Haus Jackson Hole are all luxurious, higher-budget options. Alternatively, if you want to be as close to a ski mountain as possible at a slightly more reasonable price, Snow King Resort in Jackson would be one of your best options. We opted to stay in downtown Jackson for its charm and vibrant après-ski scene - and I’m so glad we did!
We chose to stay at the Elk Country Inn, and it was the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Its location made it easy to walk to downtown’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife, which was a fun way to end each day. Plus, it’s just a short drive or shuttle ride to the slopes, so we never felt far from the action.
The amenities at Elk Country Inn were honestly some of the biggest highlights of our stay. Mornings started with a complimentary breakfast that had everything we needed to fuel up for a day on the mountain. We would even grab a few pre-packaged food items to take with us on the slopes. Throughout the day, they offered free snacks, coffee, and hot chocolate in the lobby. And after long days spent on the mountain, the pool and hot tub area became the perfect place for some après-ski action. Soaking in the hot tub with a cup of hot chocolate was the perfect way to relax our muscles and recharge for the next day.
Whether you choose to stay near the large slopes in Teton Village or closer to the town's charming center, you’ll find plenty of great options in Jackson Hole. For me, Elk Country Inn was the perfect home base for what we had planned during our short stay.
Renting Gear
If you’re planning to hit the slopes while in Jackson Hole but don’t want the inconvenience of packing and checking your own gear at the airport, you’ll find no shortage of options for renting ski or snowboard gear. Shops like Teton Village Sports, Jackson Hole Sports, and JH Skis all offer high-quality equipment and expert staff to help you get fitted. However, we decided to rent from Hoback Sports, mainly because it was conveniently located near our hotel.
Hoback Sports made the rental process super easy. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and they had everything we needed, from skis and boots to helmets and poles. They also offered a variety of packages, so whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier looking for high-performance gear, they’ve got you covered.
If you’ve never skied before, a quick heads-up—the ski boots might feel a bit uncomfortable at first. They’re stiff, heavy, and definitely not designed for walking. In fact, walking around in them was a bit of a challenge for me initially, and I found myself waddling more than walking. But trust me, you’ll appreciate the snug fit and support once you’re strapped into your skis. The boots are designed to keep your feet stable and protected on the mountain, and after a while, you get used to the feel of them.
Where to Ski
When it comes to skiing in Jackson Hole, there are two main options to consider: Snow King Mountain and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Both offer unique experiences, and if you have time, I recommend trying them both (which is what we did)!
Located right in downtown Jackson, Snow King Mountain is the perfect spot for convenience and a quick warm-up day on the slopes. Known as the “Town Hill,” it’s just minutes from most accommodations, including where we stayed at Elk Country Inn. Snow King is smaller and more budget-friendly than Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, with lift tickets starting at around $65—a steal compared to the bigger resorts.
But don’t let its size fool you—this mountain packs a punch. It’s known for its steep terrain, and even the green trails can feel a bit challenging if you’re used to Midwest skiing like I am. I vividly remember tackling one of the green runs and feeling a wave of anxiety as I realized just how close to the edge of the mountain I was. At one point, I even took my skis off and walked through a section because I was worried about falling. That said, the views of Jackson below are breathtaking, and it’s an exhilarating experience that will definitely sharpen your skills.
About 20 minutes from downtown Jackson in Teton Village, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the crown jewel of skiing in this area. Known for its world-class terrain and stunning views, it’s a must-visit for any skier or snowboarder. Lift tickets here are pricier, starting around $225 per day, but the experience is worth it.
Be prepared for a challenge—Jackson Hole is famous for its steep slopes and expert terrain. Even the green runs here are significantly more difficult than what you might find in the Midwest, with sharp turns and rolling pitches. I didn’t even attempt the blues and/or blacks, but I’m sure they offer something special for advanced skiers looking to push their limits.
One of the most memorable moments of our trip was taking the iconic Big Red Tram up to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. The ride itself was spectacular, with unbelievable views of the Tetons and Snake River Valley below. At the top, we stopped into Corbet’s Cabin for one of their world-famous gourmet waffles and had the chance to meet one of the resort’s avalanche dogs!
After a few runs, we stopped for a drink at Casper Restaurant, one of the cozy lodges with incredible views nestled on the mountain. It was the perfect way to relax before heading back out on the slopes.
How to Get Around
Getting around Jackson Hole is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead - especially if you’re relying on public transportation or shuttles to get you to the slopes.
First off, whether you are staying in downtown Jackson Hole or in Teton Village, you will have to get from the airport to your hotel or rental home. Your best option is to fly directly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) if you have the capability to. For one, I have never flown into a more beautiful airport - you land right in the middle of the Tetons! And two, the airport is conveniently located just a short 15 minutes away from the town. We didn’t want to wait for a bus when we landed, so we called an Uber to get us to our hotel. The process was quick, easy, and we even saw moose in the distance during our ride!
Once you’re in town, one of the easiest ways to navigate the area is by using the START On-Demand Shuttle, which you can book directly through their app. This service is convenient and free during service hours, making it a great option for getting around downtown Jackson or nearby areas without needing a car. We literally just requested a pick up whenever we needed to get somewhere, and within a reasonable amount of time, our ride was there. The vans always had plenty of room for our ski gear, and the drivers were so kind! If you’re heading to Teton Village to ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the START Bus is your best bet. This shuttle runs regularly between downtown Jackson and Teton Village, and at just $3 each way, it’s a budget-friendly option. However, these buses fill up quickly—especially during peak morning and late afternoon hours—so be sure to arrive at the stop early to secure a seat.
One thing to keep in mind: If you’re skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort but staying in Jackson, getting back at the end of the day can be tricky if you miss the bus. There are limited options for transportation between Teton Village and downtown once the buses stop running, which could leave you stranded if you linger too long. For this reason, if you’re staying in Jackson, you might want to think twice about indulging in après-ski drinks in Teton Village unless you’re confident you’ll make it back in time.
There is also plenty to see and do by walking around on foot! Downtown Jackson is full of western charm, including small shops, cafes, and saloons that you can easily pop in and out of. We actually really enjoyed strolling around with a hot cup of coffee/hot chocolate in hand to keep us warm!
For maximum flexibility, renting a car is another option, but keep in mind that parking in Teton Village can be expensive and fills up quickly. If that’s what you decide to do, you will have plenty of options for renting a vehicle (click here to compare rental car prices) at the airport. We opted against renting a car during our trip (partly because we didn’t want to bother with winter driving in a mountainous region).
Après Ski Activities
After a day on the slopes, Jackson Hole has no shortage of ways to relax, recharge, and enjoy the evening. Whether you’re in the mood for cocktails, live music, wildlife encounters, or just a quiet moment of relaxation, Jackson Hole’s après-ski scene has something for everyone! Here are a few great après-ski activities and locations to check out:
This iconic Jackson watering hole and is filled with Old West charm. With saddle barstools, live music, and a lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a drink or dance the evening away.
A Teton Village staple, this lively spot combines rustic charm with a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Known for its hearty comfort food, creative cocktails, and live music, it’s a great place to unwind after a day on the slopes. This is one of the most popular après-ski destinations in Jackson Hole.
Just a short drive or walk from downtown, the refuge offers sleigh rides in the winter, allowing you to get up close to the thousands of elk that migrate here. This was honestly my favorite activity we did while we were there. You purchase tickets outside of the Visitor Center and then a shuttle takes you to where the horse-drawn sleighs are. It’s a bit of a bumpy ride out to the elk, and be sure to bundle up as the winds can get pretty brutal in the open field. But this was an incredible way to connect with Jackson Hole wildlife and appreciate the beauty of the Tetons.
This local brewery serves up award-winning craft beers and a cozy atmosphere. We stopped in here on our last evening, and enjoyed a few of their brews before heading back to soak in the hot tub at our hotel.
Hot Springs
Warm up and soothe your sore, post-ski muscles by visiting one of the nearby hot springs, like Granite Hot Springs. We weren’t able to do this during our short trip, but it sure sounds like the perfect way to end a long, action-packed day on the mountain. If you’re like us and aren’t up for finding a natural hot spring, the hotel hot tub is the next best thing!
Shopping Downtown Jackson Hole
Stroll through the quaint downtown area and explore a mix of unique shops and galleries. From Western wear to handmade souvenirs and art, you’ll find plenty of treasures to take home as a memory of your trip. The one thing I regretted not buying from the Jackson Hole Resort Store while I was there was a crewneck sweatshirt with the Jackson Hole Avalanche Patrol Dogs printed on it. John knew how disappointed I was about not buying it, so he ended up ordering one on the phone and giving it to me for Christmas the following year. I was so thrilled, and I still wear it all of the time!
Where to Eat
Jackson Hole’s dining scene offers a mix of cozy cafes, hearty comfort food, and lively restaurants perfect for fueling up after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, international flavors, or a sweet treat, these spots will have what you’re looking for during your trip! Here are some of the spots that we tried:
Start your morning or grab a midday pick-me-up at this beloved local coffee shop. Known for its strong brews and tasty breakfast sandwiches, it’s a great spot to warm up and recharge.
This charming bakery and café offers artisanal pastries, fresh bread, and gourmet sandwiches. Their cozy atmosphere and creative menu make it a must-visit for breakfast or brunch. We hit this spot up on our last morning before catching our flight home.
If you’re craving something hearty, head to Big Hole BBQ for mouthwatering smoked meats, tangy sauces, and generous portions. Their pulled pork and brisket are crowd favorites. Do yourself a favor and order the burnt ends - you won’t regret it!
I was sad to learn that a delicious Thai food restaurant that we ate at while we were there is now permanently closed (RIP Thai Me Up Restaurant & Brewery). However, from what I can tell from reviews, Thai Plate is a fantastic choice. This casual spot offers curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes that I can only imagine hit the spot after a cold day on the mountain!
Located in Teton Village, this iconic eatery is the perfect spot for après-ski dining. With a lively atmosphere, hearty menu options, and a fun saloon vibe, it’s a great place to kick back and enjoy dinner and/or drinks.
Final Thoughts
A trip to Jackson Hole is an experience unlike any other. With its breathtaking scenery, challenging mountain terrain, and incredible amenities, it's no wonder that Jackson Hole is considered one of the premier ski destinations in the world. Whether you're an expert skier or just starting out, there's a slope for you (trust me!). And when you're not skiing, there's plenty to see and do in Jackson Hole, from shopping and dining to exploring the natural beauty of the area. Now I think I need to plan a trip back, but maybe during the summer this time!
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