Planning an upcoming trip to Jackson this winter? Are you the outlier of a group that will be spending most of their time downhill skiing? Maybe you’d like to spend time outdoors but prefer keeping your feet on the ground and giving those legs a rest.
We have outlined a perfect itinerary for exploring winter trails in the Tetons on Nordic skis, snowshoes, fat bike or by foot. Plus, who says you can’t have an adventure off the ski lifts?
We have also considered that some visitors will have cars while others won’t. That’s perfectly fine because we have planned a variety of itineraries so that you can make the most of your trip to the winter wonderland of Jackson Hole.
Go ahead and get creative with your time and customize your perfect 2 days of adventuring along winter trails in the Tetons.
***Make sure to arrange ski rentals if needed. Among several options in the valley, our local shops and Nordic Alliance partners, Skinny Skis, JD High Country Outfitters, Teton Pines Nordic, and Turpin Meadow Ranch. Some of them even offer rental delivery directly to your accommodation.***
2 Perfect Days: Nordic ski & Winter Trails in the Tetons
- Visiting with a Car:
- Day 1: Jackson breakfast, Grand Teton National Park, Happy Hour, Cowboy Bar
- Day 2: Breakfast on the Go, Teton Canyon, Driggs Lunch, Grand Targhee, Victor Dinner, (Alternative Activity) Turpin Meadow Ranch or Astoria Hotsprings
- Visiting without a Car:
- Day 1: Morning Walk, Breakfast, Warm-up Ski, Shooting Star, Apres at JHMR,
- Day 2: Breakfast on the Go, GTNP Tour, Lunch & Shopping, Dinner + Silver Dollar Bar (Alternative Activity) Fat Bike Tour
Visiting with a Car 🚙
While not necessary, having access to a car during your trip to the Tetons can expand your options for activities. Whether you are renting a vehicle or driving your own, ensure that your vehicle has AWD/4WD and/or snow tires, as our roads are covered with snow for most of the winter season. Drive safely and watch out for wildlife!
Day 1: Les Tétons 🏔️
Breakfast:
The morning after travel days, allow yourself to move a little slower. Perhaps treat yourself to as nice breakfast. If staying in Wilson, try Nora’s or Persephone West Bank. If you’re staying in town, try the original Persephone or their neighbor Cafe Genevieve.
Pro tip: Grab an extra pastry for a little treat during your ski time.
To the Park:
We might be biased, but winter is the best season to spend time in Grand Teton National Park. After passing through the park gates, head to the Taggart Trailhead for parking. From there, we recommend starting on Teton Park Road, which is groomed for the season thanks to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. Trails here are open to Nordic skiers, snowshoers, and walkers. Along the Teton Park Road, there are several side adventures to choose from, including the Lucas-Fabian Cabins, Taggart Trailhead to Jenny Lake, and the nearby Taggart Lake Loop.
Dogs are allowed on leash on the Teton Park Road, including the Taggart to Jenny Lake via the Teton Park Road trail. Make sure to double-check our trails pages if you’re bringing a furry friend. Recreate Responsibly tip: And if the doggo is coming with you, please be sure to bring a poop baggie, just in case. We really encourage Leave No Trace trail etiquette.
Happy Hour:
After a long exploration on skinny skis, you may find yourself in the paradox of being too late for lunch and too early for dinner. Lo and behold, this is likely an ideal time to settle into a restaurant for happy hour, a certified tip to slip into a restaurant of your choice before it fills up, perhaps saving a few dollars in return.
Cowboy to Covers:
If you’re up for it after dinner, head to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for a nightcap and perhaps a line dance. Alternatively, you can head straight to bed and slip under your covers to prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2: Exploring the Idaho Side 🥔 of the Tetons
Breakfast on the go:
Start your day by grabbing a quick breakfast to go at Pearl St. Bagels or Provisions in Wilson. Once you’re fueled up, drive up and over Teton Pass (the steepest mountain pass in the U.S.), making sure your vehicle is equipped with 4WD and/or snow tires. As you cross into Idaho, prepare for a ski in Teton Canyon.
Out & Back – Teton Canyon:
When you’re in Idaho, start your day with a delightful ski-up Teton Canyon. To reach the trail from Driggs ID, drive east on Ski Hill Road towards Grand Targhee Ski Resort. Take a right onto Teton Canyon Road, and you’ll find the parking area at the trailhead. On this groomed out-and-back trail up Teton Canyon, you can choose the distance that suits you best. This trail offers breathtaking views of the Grand, Middle, and South Tetons from their western side. As an alternative skiing location near Driggs, check out Alta Track. We recommend making a donation to local non-profit Teton Valley Trails & Pathways (TVTAP) who provide grooming for both these outstanding trails, and are funded by your donation.
On to Driggs:
If you’re feeling ready for lunch, make your way back towards the town of Driggs. It has become quite a secret foodie destination, offering a variety of local and authentic cuisines to choose from. Some popular options include Teton Thai, Provisions, Rise, Forage, King Sushi, and Citizen 33. For a delicious sandwich, we recommend stopping by Figgie’s Deli, which recently won the title of Best Sandwich in Teton Valley. Don’t forget to grab a cookie – they’re big and make for a tasty trail snack.
After lunch, head to Grand Targhee Resort and spend your afternoon exploring their fantastic Nordic Trail system, covering a distance of 8.8 miles. Take in the scenic beauty and enjoy the well-groomed trails.
Suppertime:
In the evening, stay in the area and enjoy dinner on the Idaho side of the Tetons. In Driggs, we recommend trying Teton Thai, King Sushi, or Forage for a meal. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the local scene by having dinner at the Knotty Pine Supper Club in Victor. If you’re lucky, you might even be there on a prime rib night! Afterward, head back to the Wyoming side for a relaxing night.
Note: Ensure the weather permits a safe passage over Teton Pass, the steepest mountain pass in the U.S.
***Alternative Day with a car:
Swap out one of those days or add a third day for a peaceful day visit or overnight staycation at Turpin Meadow Ranch away from the crowds. Head north past Grand Teton National Park and reach Turpin Meadow Ranch, set on the edge of the Teton Wilderness in the Bridger Teton National Forest. Enjoy the serene solitude while exploring their amazing Nordic trail system. Rent fat bikes or snowshoes, take a Nordic ski lesson, or go on a snowmobile tour. The charming cabins offer cozy lodging and breathtaking views of Mt Moran.
***Alternative Day with a car:
Alternatively, you can explore a relaxing activity by heading south of town to bask in the warmth of Astoria Hot Spring pools. Open year-round, Astoria extends a warm welcome to guests with multiple two-hour sessions each day, commencing at 9 am. It’s advisable to secure reservations, although walk-ins are accepted subject to space availability. Every contribution made through our hot springs directly supports the mission of the Astoria Park Conservancy.
Visiting without a Car, no problem 🚌🚕
Getting around the Jackson area without a car is perfectly doable, especially in the winter, thanks to the Start Bus. While it does restrict your options, you’ll be occupied with so many activities that you won’t even notice. In fact, it will be more enriching to be able to take in the sights and say hello to fellow passengers.
Day 1: Get the Village Experience 🍻 ⛷️
First Up:
Experience the breathtaking alpine glow that surrounds the Tetons at sunrise. Start your day with an early morning walk on Elk Refuge Road for a refreshing beginning. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Persephone and then take the Start Bus to Stilson.
Warm Up:
Get your ski legs ready with some laps on the Stilson Loop track. You can use the warming area to change into your gear or better yet, come dressed ready to ski. If you’re looking for more movement, head west on the Wilson-Centennial trail, then back past Stilson through the pedestrian tunnel, continuing along the walking path over to R-Park, over the Snake River bike/pedestrian bridge to Emily’s Pond trail along the rivers edge.
Shooting Star:
Hop back on the Start Bus and head to Teton Village, known as JHMR to the locals. In the village, you’ll find Shooting Star, a private club with a top-tier Nordic track. They offer daily passes for non-members at $45 to access the Nordic ski trails from 12 pm-5 pm only.
Aprés:
Since you’re already in the village, take the opportunity to join in on the post-skiing fun. Visit Alpenhof or The Mangy Moose in Teton Village for some relaxation and socializing. This is a great chance to reconnect with members of your group who may have chosen to downhill ski at JHMR. Take the bus back to your accommodations and get a good night’s sleep for another day of adventures.
Day 2: Town & Country
Breakfast on the go:
Begin your day with a convenient grab-and-go breakfast at Pearl Street Market, DOG Burritos, or Pearl St. Bagels. Afterward, head to the Home Ranch lot on Cache and Gill Street to be picked up for your exciting adventure.
Morning Adventure:
Join a guided tour in Grand Teton National Park to explore its natural wonders. Led by knowledgeable professional guides, you will learn about the local ecosystem. Jackson Hole Eco Tour and The Hole Hiking Experience offer educational wildlife, snowshoes tours and classic cross country ski tours, so be sure to rent your skis in advance. Both companies offer transportation and will pick you up at the Home Ranch lot on Cache and Gill Street.
Lunch + Activities:
Enjoy a meal in town at a place of your choice. Discover the town by shopping at local stores such as Stio, New West Knife Works, and MADE. Additionally, you can explore galleries or visit the community-centered JH Center for the Arts. And don’t forget to greet our friends at KHOL. 🎙️(89.1 FM), our local non-profit radio station and NPR affiliate with some innovative DJs and playlists.
Dinner:
Indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll through the town square at night and admire the illuminated antler arches. Afterward, you can enjoy some live music at the Silver Dollar Bar located in the Wort Hotel.
***Alternative Day:
Opt for wheels instead of skis and embark on a fat bike tour with Teton Mountain Bike Tours. They know the best places to ride, includes bike rentals, guided or unguided tours, with transportation to the best riding in the Bridger Teton National Forest with big Teton views.
With so many choices of trails, adventures, pre-ski, apres-ski experiences, you might have to stay longer in the Tetons!!
