What’s Groomed in Jackson Hole/Teton Valley?
See real-time grooming in the Jackson Hole/Teton Valley region. Find all the latest grooming & fresh groomed tracks. Plan your next Nordic Adventure with ease.
WILD NATURE
by Cathy Shill, founder of The Hole Hiking Experience
https://www.holehike.com/
With the most tour locations, we adapt the day to current conditions. Join the naturalists with The Hole Hiking Experience on the trail to discover winter, wildlife and the beauty of Jackson Hole.
“Snowflakes are one of nature’s most fragile things, but just look what they can do when the stick together.” -Vesta Kelly
It’s the darkest time of the year in the northern hemisphere. Winter starts this week with the Solstice on December 21, 2023. The latitude in Jackson is 43 degrees north so short days with sunrise at 7:53 AM and sunset at 4:50 PM. It’s the time of the year when nature is quiet. Many species hibernate and all conserve energy in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. We don’t notice additional light until about late January. As winter begins, it is important to have snow so wildlife can use the insulating properties of the snowpack. With 6-8 inches, snow insulates the ground to protect organisms from frigid winter temperatures.
I am sure a snow dance or two is happening in our valley. Snow is thin for this time of the year, and we do start to get anxious for the start of the ski season. Jackson winters are affected by temperatures and currents in the Pacific Ocean. This winter, La Nino dominates which means warm water in the Pacific and usually a drier winter in the Tetons. We are currently at 84% of average mountain snowfall. Winter is just beginning and after 35 years of touring, I know that snow can be thin in December as it begins to accumulate.
Lots of changes to come in 2024. Wolverines will become protected under the Endangered Species Act. Wolves will roam the mountains of Colorado bringing nature back towards balance. Grizzly bears will be brought from the north to increase genetic diversity in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. (https://wyofile.com/montana-to-start-trucking-grizzlies-into-yellowstone-region-to-improve-delisting-prospects/ I hope decisions are made to support diversity and the animals.
As winter begins, it can be a reflective time. I wish for all beings to be safe and may my actions support nature and life’s diversity. Enjoy this dark time of the year and let it snow.
www.holehike.com | 307.690.4453
SheJumps x Teton Nordic Ski School Women’s Nordic Series
Join SheJumps and the ladies of Teton Nordic Ski School for a fun & social Nordic Ski Series in the Teton Valley! Each session will start with a tip of the day, which you can work on throughout the session as you meet other participants and future ski partners. After the tip of the day, we will likely break into small groups based on ski style and speed. Each session will be 1.5 to 2 hours long.
Series Schedule:
– Wednesday January 31th @ 6:00 PM | Location: Sherman Park/Victor Park under the lights!
– Friday February 9th @ 5:00 PM | Location: Teton Reserve Nordic Trail
– Thursday February 22nd @ 6:30 PM | Location: Teton Canyon ( park at New Sheep Bridge Trailhead winter parking ) Full moon ski with tailgate celebration after!
– Thursday March 14th @ 5:30 PM | Location: Alta Track(50 Alta School Rd., Alta, WY)
Nordic Alliance Shares the Glide
From the JH News & Guide
On Saturday morning, JH Nordic Alliance founder Nancy Leon, Scott Horn and Scott Sanchez clipped into Nordic skis with six members of Coombs Outdoors’ Camina Conmigo group.
Founded by Miriam Morillon, Camina Conmigo — Spanish for “walk with me” — is designed for Jackson’s Latino community to learn more about, enjoy and connect with the outdoors through trained guides.
Horn and mates were training the group of six at Trail Creek Ranch as guides so they can then go back to their friends and families and teach them about Nordic skiing.
Trip Report: Great Fat Biking up the Gros Ventre
Thought I’d share some photos from fat biking up the Gros Ventre over the weekend. The road is closed to vehicles at the Slide Lake campground, except people living up there can still drive, so the road is firm packed and in excellent condition for fat biking. We rode up past Crystal Creek for a picnic and back. The sun is low on the horizon, but still offers some warmth in the midday. No snowmobiles yet, blissfully quiet up there. Walking is an option also, but don’t bring your skis, it’s not ready yet. We spotted a small band of big horn sheep fairly close to the trailhead. – Tim Y
Thanks for the update, Tim! It sounds like the upper GV is perfect for fat biking right now. In fact, these low snow conditions are pretty ideal for fat biking. CD trail could be nice too! Or Pine Creek pass! Or Cliff Creek…many good rides to choose from! Just click on the “fat bike icon” on the JHNordic.com/Trails/ page to see all 57 fat bike trail options.
TC/J Parks & Rec Free Cross Country Classic and Skate Ski lessons at JH Nordic Alliance Free Annual Event -Turpin Meadow Ranch!
Trail Creek
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/20
It’s Trying!
The forecast has become friendlier with scattered snow showers for the rest of the week and then a three inch forecast between Saturday morning and Sunday evening.
In spite of the recent dearth of snow, some morning skiers have been finding some pretty nice skiing. Current temps in the upper 20’s allowed for the Ginzu knives to easily shave the snow surface, keeping our hard working base skiing for yet another day. Multiple passes happened on the close field, Armin’s, and Moose Loop with pretty much every other recently groomed trail receiving a single Ginzu pass.
As mentioned previously, watch out for hazards, carefully pick your route, and you can have a great ski. Of hazardous note, an ice flow has developed at the top of Suicide (middle photo); it doesn’t go very far but do be careful; check it out, it’s pretty cool!
Groomer’s choice for today is either the Close Field or Armin’s.
Teton Co./Jackson Parks & Rec
Last Update: 12/11
Staff went up Game Creek on Saturday. Weekend storm was a bust. Snowmobile and pull behind took a real beating so we pulled out before getting into the sunny areas. We need 3-4” of wet snow or more fluffy snow to keep grooming.
For the most up-to-date grooming info visit: http://www.tetonparksandrec.org/1353/Grooming-Report
Cache Creek Singletrack
Groomed by Friends of Pathways
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/10
We groomed the Cache Creek road to Noker Mine and upper Hagen from bridge 5 to 2. The lower trails are still a little thin on snow, especially under the trees, but are still compact enough to use for now. We will keep snowshoeing around and packing things in until there is enough snow to take the roller through.
Teton Pines Nordic
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/20
We just completed an afternoon groom (roller). The snow texture is good and the skate skiing is great–except for a few thin areas. The cold temps have stuck around and kept the track in good shape. We have not had any freeze/thaw cycles out here yet. If you are in Jackson it might seem tough to believe, but it’s much colder out here and the snow hasn’t gone anywhere😀
We received around 1/2″ of new snow this morning which freshened things up a bit. We plan to reset the classic track tomorrow and roll the skate track(possibly ginzu groomer tomorrow).
Shooting Star
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/18
It looks to be another week of sunny skies and dry weather. Temperatures will remain above average, which could cause new bare areas to form. Early season conditions continue, with select terrain available (see attached map) . Also, note that skiers may encounter more small scavenger animals than normal ( fox, raccoons, skunk, etc.) as the lack of snow and exposed areas make finding natural food easier for them. These animals will likely be less common once heavier snows return. Next update will be Friday 12/22. Please see the following trail notes:
- Trail conditions are early season. Please ski with caution as the snow profile is extremely thin.
- Walking is not allowed and will be extremely detrimental to the track with the very low snowpack.
- No classic tracks will be set, and sporadic bare/brushy/exposed areas may be present.
- Grooming frequencies will be as needed to preserve the track.
- Sled Hill is Closed. Needs ample snow (2FT).
- Temporary closures of the Nordic Course may be needed until additional snow accumulates if severe melt occurs.
- Small game/scavenger animals may be present throughout the whole course. Use extra caution when skiing with dogs.
Again, we’ll do our best to keep the trails skiable and open during this warmer weather. Enjoy the sunny conditions!
Turpin Meadow Ranch
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/17
We are open for activities and lunch, lodging and nightly dinner opens on Wednesday, December 20. Trail conditions are thin but the track is firm and fast. There is no classic track at this time but anyone who has come up for a tour has been rewarded with good views and great food.
TMR is open to all for skiing, lunch, Nordic lessons, and tours! Call the office (307) 543-2000 or visit our website to book your adventure and/or meal! Check out our live webcam for current conditions.
Summer Homes Loop, Riverside Loop, Way 40 and Willows Loop groomed 12/19.
Please help support trail grooming in GTNP by donating to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation. It’s easy and encouraged. All you need to do is visit: GTNPF.org/donate/ and leave the comment “Nordic” in the designation section. There is the opportunity to leave a one time gift or reoccurring monthly donations in any amount.
Grooming Has Yet to Begin in Grand Teton National Park.
Grand Targhee
Grooming: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
Last Updated: 12/17
GTR is grooming Rick’s Basin area trails on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday. Skate skiing is good. no classic track set just yet.Variable conditions exist, please ski with caution.
GTR is no longer grooming for fat biking or snowshoeing, however fat biking is permitted on the groomed Nordic trails.
Please support TVTAP winter trail grooming on your favorite TV winter trails by purchasing a TVTAP Trail sticker Please remember to manage your dogs and respect dog and wildlife closures. Buy a dog trail sticker, too!
Teton Canyon
Grooming Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday
Last Updated: 12/20
Wednesday: Plan to reset the skate track this morning. Classic is in decent shape from Monday groom. Skiing remains good during this extended period of unseasonably warm, dry, weather. Caution at cattle guards.
Trail Etiquette: Please keep your dogs leashed in the parking lot and be sure to clean up after them!
Southern Valley Nordic
Grooming Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday
Last Updated: 12/19
Monday evening: I reset the skate track on all Campground and Yeti trail loops. Didn’t think I could improve the classic track much so left it as is. It’s in okay condition. Enjoy the glide! Mike P
Tuesday morning: Groomed Happy Hour, Powerline/BPA road Mike Harris to Sherman Springs and Sherman Springs Access. Enjoy the ride!
Please note the USFS dog closure policy Dec 1st – April 15th at this venue.
Teton Reserve Nordic
Grooming Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Last Updated: 12/2
It snowed and we are excited to begin grooming soon. Stay tuned to the grooming report for updates as we get trails open. Please respect the Teton Reserve golf course and only ski on the groomed trail. We will announce when the trail is open, soon. Stay tuned…
Sherman Park
Grooming Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Last Updated: 12/16
Left the classic track but took a few laps on the skate track to try and freshen it up.
Driggs School Loops
Grooming Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Last Updated: 12/2
It snowed and we are excited to begin grooming. Stay tuned to the grooming report for updates as we get trails open.
Alta Nordic Track
Grooming Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
Last Updated: 12/18
Ginzued the Library Loop and Stadium on Monday night. Still thin but skiable and kind of smooth. Come on snow!
JH Ski & Snowboard Club Nordic Masters Ski Clinics
Thursdays, Dec 14 – Feb 22
Teton Pines and Trail Creek
11am – 12:30pm
5 classic clinics and 5 skate clinics at Teton Pines Nordic Center and Trail Creek Nordic Trails.
Join these clinics to work on your Cross-country classic and/or skate ski technique, balance, stamina, efficiency, performance , and fun.
Betty Woolsey Classic Race
Saturday, December 23rd
Trail Creek Nordic Center
This event commemorates Betty Woolsey, a ski racing Olympian and the founder of Trail Creek Ranch. During her lifetime, Betty Woolsey pioneered backcountry skiing on Teton Pass, opened Trail Creek to JHSC for Nordic skiing in 1967, and helped the JHSC Nordic and biathlon programs get off the ground.
This community event offers distances for every age and ability; 10 AM start time with a mass start classic format.
Racers can choose from 0.5k, 3k, 5k, and 10k options.
Christmas Brunch with Santa
Saturday, December 23rd
Turpin Meadow Ranch
Head over to Turpin Meadow Ranch 11:30am – 2:30pm for brunch and pictures with Santa! Reservations are required. Call 307-543-2000 to reserve your spot today!
Teton Ridge Classic
Saturday, January 6th
Mike Harris Trail System
Classic cross country ski races -distances: 15 km and 7 km courses.
For the last 2 decades, the Teton ridge Classic (TRC) has been one of the premier classic Nordic ski races in the Greater Teton region. The Teton Ridge Classic will take place just south of Victor, Idaho on the Mike Harris trail system.
Save the Date
JH Nordic Alliance 6th Annual Free Ski, Fat Bike, & Snowshoe Day
Sunday, January 7th, 2024
Turpin Meadow Ranch
Free Classic and skate ski gear demos, ski lessons, trail use, Backcountry Nordic ski tours, Snowshoe tours, Kids Corral, Town-to-Turpin free van shuttle -Family friendly.
Mark your calendar so you don’t miss out on all the wonderful events coming up! Explore the highlighted events below or find more events on our website at https://jhnordic.com/events/
