We’re traveling to ski resorts in the western U.S. trying to decipher which will provide the best vacation experience for skiers and snowboarders like you. Along the way we’re interviewing locals, taking photos of local skiers and boarders tearing up their hometown hill, and using everything we learn from the locals to create these micro guides. This guide comes in video and written form. Both can be found below.
The video above contains lots of useful information, but, if you want to carry have this information on the hill where it will really come in handy, bookmark this guide on your phone.
Jackson Hole Micro Guide Part 1: The Hill
Whenever I show up at a hill, I never know where to go. The map doesn’t tell you enough. So, we’re created annotated maps of each hill explaining the terrain, so that you know where to go. Here’s our annotated map of Jackson Hole.
DOWNLOAD A FULL-SIZED VERSION OF THE MAP TO YOUR DESKTOP OR PHONE (1.3mb)
Here are the highlights:
For the Hardcore:
The tram is your best friend. It will carry you up 4,139 feet of steep powder-laden expert-only terrain in less than 10 minutes.
It’s glorious.
From the top of the tram you can access the infamous Corbet’s Couloir (known as the most extreme in-bounds run in North America), numerous steeps, cliffs, and bowl, and 3000+ acres of backcountry.
If excitement is what you’re looking for, you’ll never need another lift.
For the Park Rats:
Jackson Hole has one superpipe and four terrain parks, including two Burton Stash Parks. They may not all be open at all times and they vary in terrain and style, so it’s best to either ask a liftie for the lowdown or grab a map and go check them out to see which one you like best.
For the Groomer Cruisers:
It used to be that you’d spend most of your day on the Bridger Gondola, but Jackson Hole recently installed the Caspar Quad Chair, which opened up a whole new range of intermediate terrain. If you like the blue squares, you’ll want to spend your day exploring the areas around these two lifts.
For the Snowplowers:
If you’re a beginner, the areas around the Eagle’s Rest and Teewinot chairlifts are perfect for you. Basically all the runs are green circles, so you won’t accidentally end up on a steep pitch if you make a wrong turn, and you’ll never be far from the warmth of the lodge.
**Bonus Tip**
Liftopia sometimes carries lift tickets for Jackson Hole at a significant discount. Check their Jackson Hole page for cheap tickets.
Jackson Hole Micro Guide Part II: Where to Eat
The following restaurants came highly recommended by locals in Jackson Hole:
ON THE HILL / TETON VILLAGE
Osteria
A very classy and relaxed little Italian bistro with a warm atmosphere and wine bar.
3335 Village Drive, Teton Village, WY 83025
(307) 739-4100
A western saloon with electric decor, good prices, and locally sources fare.
3295 Village Drive, Teton Village, WY
(307) 733-4913
Village Cafe (known locally as ‘VC’)
Great value on the hill with espresso, pizza by the slice, soup, and sandwiches.
3275 McCollister Drive, Teton Village, WY
(307) 732-2233
IN JACKSON
Upscale
Quirky takes on traditional dishes in a upscale casual atmosphere. Extremely busy. Reservations strongly recommended.
380 S US Highway 89, Jackson, WY
(307) 733-5010
A locally-owned casual American bistro. Very popular with locals.
45 South Glenwood Street, Jackson, WY
(307) 734-8038
A western style eatery known for succulent steak and exotic game dishes.
862 West Broadway, Jackson, WY
(307) 733-3287
Casual
Sometimes referred to as Jackson’s “living room”, this brewery serves excellent locally-made brews and pub fare.
265 South Millward Street, Jackson, WY
(307) 739-2337
Eclectic decor and a passionate brewmaster make this brewpub a one-of-a-kind experience. A must see for beer lovers.
2550 Moose Wilson Road, Wilson, WY
(307) 739-0700
Pizza by the pie and by the slice. Loved by locals.
50 West Broadway, Jackson, WY
(307) 734-7465
Jackson Hole Micro Guide Part III: What to do Off the Hill
Jackson Hole is an outdoors-lovers paradise for everyone from the ultra-hardcore spam-eating dirtbag to the vacationing family with young children. Here are some of the most highly-recommended activities around Jackson categorized by the degree of discomfort or physical exertion required.
SWEATING AND CURSING
Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding
The Jackson Hole ski area offers access to over 3000 acres of backcountry, and that’s before you even get far from the mountain. Possibilities here are limitless.
Find your limits with one of Jackson Hole’s official backcountry guides.
Ice climbing
The area around Jackson has been referred to as “one of the riches ice-climbing treasures in the continental United States. With programs for everyone from beginners to serious peak baggers, Jackson Hole Mountain Guides can show you the ropes.
A GOOD DAY’S WORK
Snowmobiling
Wyoming is world-renowned among snowmobile enthusiasts. Find out why on one of the many day, half-day, and mulit-day tours offered by Togwotee Snomobile Adventures.
Dogsledding
An honoured tradition of snowbound country. Learn about, and experience, local history on a dogsled tour with the award-winning Iditarod Sled Dog Tours.
EASY AS PIE
Elk Reserve Sleigh Ride
Just outside of Jackson is the National Elk Refuge. Bundle up the family and take a wildlife viewing sleigh tour. Tickets are available from the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center in Jackson.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoing is like a walk in the park — a beautiful snowy Teton-backed park. It’s also nice and easy on the wallet. Snowshoe rentals about in Jackson. Several options can be found here.
Looking for more local recommendations for places to eat and things to do around Jackson Hole? Then I recommend you check out AFAR’s user-created suggestions for Jackson. I use them while traveling, and contribute some myself.
BEST GEAR DEALS ONLINE
I can’t snowboard and ski anymore due to previous injuries but still love the snow and resorts, thanks for mentioning other options such as snowshoeing and other sports.
That’s awful Megan! But I’m glad I could help you find some alternatives! There’s a lot to do in Wyoming.
Highly informative and useful for the independent travelers…. Video is pretty comprehensive….