Travel Diary :: Ski + Explore in Jackson Hole, WY

Hi friends!

Sharing another Winter memory (aka when I was still out on the open road!) with you today, this time to the BEAUTIFUL Jackson Hole, Wyoming!

This was my first time visiting this incredible area, and to do so in Winter made for such a unique experience. I’m sure by now you all know how much I LOVE cold weather adventures, and this charming little ski town provided them in abundance! Keep reading for some of my favorites memories.

Of course, a major attraction to this area for me was the skiing! Located a quick 12 mile drive from town, Jackson Hole [an Ikon Pass resort!] is a world class mountain that brings skiers and riders from around the globe. Catering to those of all levels - from beginner and intermediate terrain to the experts drawn by the iconic chute, Corbet’s Couloir, it really is a destination for all.

With 133 trails spanning 2,500 acres of in bounds terrain, and averaging over 400 inches of snow per year, it’s easy to see the appeal in Jackson Hole! If you make the trip here, you can’t leave without experiencing the aerial tram at least once. Bringing you up to the tippy top of Rendezvous Peak (situated at 10,450 feet) in just 9 minutes, the views alone make it worth the wait in line. Of course, the views aren’t what draw people up here. For thrill seekers, a chance to take on the legendary Corbet’s Couloir is the real test - especially on a powder day (click to watch some crazy footage of this spot, It blew me away!!). For those looking for something a tad more mellow, the Rendezvous Bowl provides a fun way down , not to mention incredible views along with it. It has to be said, no trip up the aerial tram would be complete without a pitstop to grab waffles at Corbet’s Cabin! Where else can you snack on waffles while on top of a mountain?! In the summer months, the tram acts as a drop off for hikers. Although it isn’t currently running this season, I’m definitely planning a warm weather trip to experience this!

Throughout our time in Jackson, we stayed in Anvil Hotel, a cozy + modern lodging destination right in the center of town. Mere steps away were ample shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries… the location alone makes for a perfect setup! I also had the chance to stay at their adjoining hostel (located downstairs from the lobby area), Cache House, which is an incredibly affordable and comfy option for those looking to spend more time exploring than resting. I have to admit, as far as hostels go, this one is AMAZING. The shared spaces, bathroom areas, and bunks are clean and modern - keeping in line with the same design aesthetic of the hotel rooms.

In town, you can’t miss out on visiting the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar (established in 1937, it’s a landmark JH location!), peaking into the many galleries + shops, and sampling all the yummy treats at Persephone Bakery.

Another major reason the area is so popular is its proximity to Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and the National Elk Refuge!

While I didn’t have time to fit Yellowstone in my Winter itinerary, this park is a favorite of mine in the summer (it was actually one of the national parks I visited on my first ever cross-country road trip!). However, given that we were so close to both Grand Teton and the Elk Refuge, I couldn’t pass either of those up!

The park roads in the Tetons are mostly closed off in the Winter, but the ones open provide ample pathways to the beautiful surrounding landscapes. We decided to hike to Taggart Lake, an easy two mile trail featuring sweeping views of the Teton peaks. Just remember to bring your snowshoes or micro spikes! The trails definitely get slippery and the snow is DEEP.

For those looking for outdoor fun, minus the trek, horse-drawn tours of the nearby Elk Refuge provide an ideal family friendly outing! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the refuge, town, and history of the region, making it a great way to get better acquainted with the area.

Hope this guide of winter escapism has you excited for cold weather adventures! Please remember to travel responsibly when visiting these little mountain communities. We all have to do our part to keep them safe + healthy, and keep the trails clean for all future generations to enjoy.

xo

J.

**Pin for future trips!