Skiing in Jackson Hole is more than a winter hobby, it’s a passion that’s tangible on and off the slopes in a valley blessed with over 450 annual inches of snow. It also doesn’t take long to learn that the locals aren’t always quick to share their secret powder stashes and favorite lines. Backcountry skiing offers a chance to escape the crowds (although even at Jackson Hole Mountain resort, an actual crowd is a scarcity) and explore some amazing scenery. Getting started, however, can be intimidating. Signing up for a day with High Mountain Heli Skiing offers the perfect mix of plentiful powder and thrilling adventure for skiers of moderate to expert abilities.
It’s just around the corner. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s opening Day is November 29th. Been contemplating a Jackson Hole ski vacation? Snow is starting to pile up, backcountry skiers are finding fresh tracks on Teton Pass in the midst of a white forecast and holiday preparations are in full swing. If you have been considering a Jackson Hole ski vacation, the holiday season is the perfect time to visit and there are great vacation packages and lodging deals to take advantage of now.
The venerable town hill, Snow King, is slated to open on Thanksgiving Day, November 27th for all those forgoing football for some post meal exercise and our westerly Teton neighbor, Grand Targhee Resort, will open–fingers crossed for a fresh bounty awaiting powder seekers–on November 22nd.
A Jackson Hole Traveler vacation planning tip: check the Teton Pass and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Web cams for live feeds of current conditions and weather as your travel dates approach. Preparing a game plan for your ski destinations (whether bound for Snow King, Grand Targhee, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the backcountry or a combination of all) will help you select accommodations that maximize your time on the slopes and seeing sights. The December season offers a great chance to experience the Holiday festivities in Jackson Hole, sample the legendary “Cowboy Powder” followed by a hot tub soak and make it back in time to warm up by the fire with family and some holiday cheer.
As I navigated crowds and bumped into friends during the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival Palates & Palettes galley walk I heard many fond comments floating about on the evening: “I look forward to this all year, a party on the town square, and one of the highlights of the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival.”
The Palates & Palettes gallery walk is an annual tradition during the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival in which local galleries open their doors to the public in an evening celebration of art. The atmosphere is relaxed, gallery staff and artists are on hand to talk with guests about the art on display but also just enjoy a glass of wine and toast to Fall in the Tetons. The multi-gallery open house lasts from 5pm-8pm, but be sure arrive early as popular galleries fill up quickly with food and wine going fast. Live music from local acts rounds out the popular evening. Check out the video for more details, but better yet, check it out yourself at the next Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival.
Jackson Hole Roasters is known for custom coffee roasting right on site in their quaint location in historic Jackson Hole. Owner and chief roaster, Jack, offers a number of blends including organic, fair trade, bird friendly and more that are all roasted fresh daily. Jack prides himself on maintaining an intricate knowledge of the best roasting techniques for each variety, but you can always request a special cup roasted any way you want it. You can order your favorite blends online but the experience of enjoying a fresh cup roasted by Jack is truly unique. Stop in to visit Jackson Hole Roasters newly expanded space right next door and taste the flavor for yourself.
