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.
Ending the Year with Gratitude
As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the impact the Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance has made sharing information on Jackson Hole and Teton Valley winter trails. Thank you for turning to JH Nordic to inform your adventures on winter trails, whether on cross-country skis, skate skis, fat bike, snowshoes, dog-walking, trail running.
In 2023, JH Nordic provided our community and visitors with:
• 140 Daily Trail Reports (Dec – April, monthly on the off-season)- web, email, radio • 108 winter GPS trail maps and info • Real-time Grooming updates • Our blog (useful topics, local profiles, top trails, Recreate Responsibly) • All local Winter Trail Events • Annual Free Event at Turpin Meadow Ranch – 600 attendees in 2023
We couldn’t have done it without the expertise of our 45+ local JH Nordic Alliance Partners!
Thank you and please continue to support us, make a donation here: https://loom.ly/zegxWp0
Here’s to more trails explored and knowledge shared in the coming year!
Reason #7 to Attend the Winter Trails Event of the Season
You’ll have the opportunity to explore the serene backcountry of Bridger Teton National Forest through professionally-led tours. Hole Hiking Experience will be leading snowshoe tours, while Taylor Philips and Tenley Thompson from JH Ecotour Adventures will be leading guided backcountry Nordic tours. This is an incredible chance to spend time in the peaceful backcountry with knowledgeable professionals who have a deep understanding of the environment and ecosystem.
Sign the Waiver for the Annual Free Event!
There are less than 2 weeks until Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance’s 6th Annual Free Ski, Fat Bike, & Snowshoe Day! Join us on January 7th at Turpin Meadow Ranch, where there will be free classic and skate ski gear demos, ski lessons, Turpin Meadow trail use, Backcountry Nordic ski tours, Snowshoe tours, Kids Corral, and a free Town-to-Turpin van shuttle.
Planning on attending? Don’t forget to sign the waiver! Scan or click the QR code to the left to complete the waiver prior to the event. We look forward to seeing you there!
Trip Reports from GTNP, Skier Tracked Trails are Good
This was a perfect weekend to enjoy the year end in GTNP! With well established, skiable classic ski tracks (and sometime 2 sets of side by side social tracks!) from Taggart trailhead north to Jenny Lake next to the road. There is no groomed trail just yet, so leave your skate skis at home until snowfall allows for grooming.
And Lori I. shared the following: Went on a short tour to Lucas Fabian on the west side of the Cottonwood Creek, returning on the bike path. Bike path was in good shape with two diagonal stride tracks. Just a couple spots on the west side of Cottonwood Creek where you have to use caution. We took our skis off and walked across the frozen section of creek, which is what it looks like most people are doing. Bike path is in excellent shape. I didn’t see any spots where walkers / snowshoers had been. All their footprints were up on the road.
Note: a reminder that due to low snowfall so far this winter, grooming has not commenced in GTNP on the Teton Park Road between Taggart and Signal. Dogs must be on leash and only on the road- not on side trails to protect wildlife.
Trip Report: Teton Canyon
Friday, December 29th was a perfect day in Teton Canyon on both classic and skate skis. Double classic track set the full distance (3.5 miles one way) to the Jeddah Smith Wilderness boundary. Snow remained cold, soft packed on the trail in spite of a sunny, balmy day. A couple of younger skiers were even in t-shirts! There was much to be inspired by with hoar frost sparkling on trees, bushes, and old buckrail fences. And views of the Grand’s west side on a blue bird day was stunning! There was a happy ribbon of snow for Nordic skiers, fat bikers, families, dogs on the last Friday of the year.
Winter Trails Update From TVTATP
The trails have been feeling a bit dehydrated lately and we have been getting a lot of questions. Here’s some answers regarding the TVTAP grooming program:
What’s up with the new snowcat? When will it start grooming trail?
We want to begin grooming and skiing on machine tilled trails as much as you do. The snowcat is an aggressive grooming tool that requires a bit of snow (6” minimum base depth) to effectively groom without causing damage to the trail or machine. Unfortunately, Teton Canyon and Southern Valley have marginally enough snow to operate the snowcat without tilling up gravel and dirt. The last thing we want to do is churn up dirt and rocks, which won’t go away till it’s buried by more snows. Fortunately, our grooming program is setup with plenty of lightweight snowmobile grooming equipment that does a great job in low-snow conditions.
As the dry spell continues, we will begin delicately using the snowcat to push snow into thin areas (like the approach to Yeti’s Loop) to keep the trails alive till it snows more.
Why did TVTAP halt grooming the Southern Valley singletrack trails?
The singletrack trail are in great shape. We are taking a break because the high-pressure weather is keeping the singletrack firm and fast. We groomed them rather aggressively when the snow was fresh, to firm up the base and make them rideable for fat-tire bikes. Some of the trails, like Lady Slipper, never really had enough snow to effectively groom without risking damage to the grooming equipment. If significant damage (tire ruts and footprints) occurs to the singletrack we will do our best to fix them, but there needs to be enough snow on the trail to run the singletrack groomers without risking damage to our equipment or the trail. We really just need more snow.
Will TVTAP be grooming the Centennial Trail?
Yes and no. We are planning to groom this route for the Teton Ridge Classic race scheduled for 1/6/24, but not for the remainder of the winter. We may also change our mind if we cannot open other venues because of lack of snow.
Importantly, The Centennial Trail was designed as a summer bike route with multiple steep grades and sharp turns that are appropriate for bike tires on the grippy asphalt surface. Winter recreation on this same route introduces different safety concerns. For the race, we have the ability to make this route one-way directional and mitigate several hazards with volunteers on course. These risk management tactics are not feasible for all season grooming. Additionally, the Centennial trail is outside the winter closure area for dogs. Meaning dogs are allowed but technically should be leashed. That is consistent with the summer regulations. We need help from all users to practice appropriate etiquette as use on this trail increases. TVTAP will consider expanding the winter trail system in Southern Valley if trail use increases and we need to create more opportunity, so the groomed trails remain enjoyable for all users.
The following is from Dave Bergart, Race Director & Dan Streubel, Race Director Emeritus
For all you weather watchers… the Teton Ridge Classic scheduled for Saturday, January 6, 2024 is a-go. While races are getting cancelled across the entire lower 48, there is snow with classic tracks on the race course! TRC has a very solid 8km loop thanks to mother nature, shaded skiing, and incredible grooming from TVTAP in partnership with the US Forest Service.
So that the odds are in our favor, we have a crew of volunteers heading out to work on the course this weekend. Regardless, since we have a decent base we think the 4km and 8km courses can be raced as advertised. Depending on the weather we have three great options for the 16km and will make the call closer to race day. In full transparency these options (in order of preference) include;
- We run the full 16km course as planned
- We move the finish line 1km closer
- We ski two laps of the 8km course
We have published the course maps on the TRC website. If you want to learn more about the courses we’ve also included a super nerdy video (sorry in advance for some of the videography work).
We greatly appreciate your support for the 21st year of the TRC. All proceeds from this event benefit Teton Valley Trails and Pathways – an incredible non-profit organization that makes grooming happen in Teton Valley. Please sign up at webscorer. Sign up closes Friday, January 5th at 5pm MST.
Trail Creek
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/29
Moose Are Moving In!
A cow and calf moose were happily munching away around the fields this morning, doing a good job of trimming back the shrubbery. The cow seemed very quiet and content, but the little bull calf wasn’t quite sure about being near any people. If you are lucky enough to have a Nordic ski today at Trail Creek and spot this pair, as always, give them a little room and time to adjust to winter in a Nordic ski area.
Today’s grooming mostly happened last night. The strategy was to take advantage of the warmer afternoon temps and reset some of the classic tracks. The results were mostly positive with fresh classic tracks around the Close Field and through Armin’s. They are a little shallow but mostly pretty skiable. Skate lanes were reset with the Ginzu almost everywhere as well. The hard working snow is very firm and fast, but will mostly ski nicely.
This morning’s effort was to haul fresh snow onto Grunt, covering a few rocks on our infamous climb into the woods. Be aware that it will be a bit soft for a while.
While we continue to hover very near record low snowpack for this date, both the 6-10 and 8-14 day forecasts are showing above normal precip which looks to begin around New Year’s Day. Perhaps the New Year will usher in a change in the weather.
Groomer’s choice for today is to look for the moose.
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.
Please help support trail grooming for the Cache Creek Single track trails by donating to the Friends of Pathways. Visit: friendsofpathways.org/donate/ and leave the comment “Grooming” in the campaign section.
Teton Pines Nordic
Grooming Daily
Last Update: 12/30
We are grooming early on Sunday morning with the ginzu groomer. Skate skiing should be really nice again and classic is still pretty good all things considered (10″ of total snowfall this season).
We have rentals available but please call ahead if you have large groups to make sure we have the sizes available when you want to come over and ski. It will be fairly busy on New Year’s Eve so it’s best to come and ski early(9 or 10’ish) or wait until 1pm or so.
We have wider, metal edged skis and bc boots if you are planning to ski to Phelps Lake or in the Taggart Lake area in GTNP.
Shooting Star
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/29
Early season and thin conditions will continue as dry & sunny weather is forecasted for yet another week . Friendly reminder to ski only on the trails and do not venture off paths to prevent injury and damage on the golf course. Next update will be Friday (1/5). Happy New Years and enjoy the sunshine!
- Trail conditions are early season. Please ski with caution as the snow profile is extremely thin.
- Walking is not allowed.
- 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.
Turpin Meadow Ranch
Grooming As Needed
Last Update: 12/30
All trails were reset with the ginzu early Saturday morning. The summer homes and riverside continue to be holding up the best in this dehydrated weather pattern. Everyone who has been on the trails have been enjoying them!
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.
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 TETON NATIONAL PARK — Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) shared a road status update to its Facebook page on Thursday, Dec. 21, sharing that grooming operations on Teton Park Road will be delayed until more snow falls.
Grand Targhee
Grooming: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
Last Updated: 12/23
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: 12/30
Snow Rabbit just made tracks in Teton Canyon. Focused on resetting the South Classic. Enjoy the nice weekend!
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: 12/29
Groomed yeti and campground this evening. Left the classic track on yeti. Left good portions of classic on campground but skate only in the woods portion. Enjoy!
The Snow Rabbit did some work along the Yeti approach and filled in the thin spots.
Spring like conditions exist! Be cautious of thin snowpack, icy surfaces in cold temps, rocks and limbs poking through the trails and track.
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: 12/22
We’re holding off of grooming Sherman Park until there is more new snow.
Driggs School Loops
Grooming Schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Last Updated: 12/28
Current condition update: The Driggs track is packed and being used as a shuffle ski, walking and fat tire venue. We are waiting for more snow to effectively groom. Please be cautious of “spring like” early season conditions. Lots of limbs are sticking through and post hole footprints can create hazards.
Please pick up your trash and dog pop with the supplied Mutt Mitt station.
Alta Nordic Track
Grooming Schedule: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday
Last Updated: 12/26
Library Loop & Stadium were “smoothed” out this afternoon. Classic was not set due to the snow pack being minimal. The rest of the track cannot be groomed until we see more snow.
Darby Canyon
Grooming As Needed
Last Updated: 12/19
The Teton Basin Ranger District Will begin grooming as snow conditions allow. Think Snow!
Trail Etiquette: Please keep your dogs leashed in the parking lot and be sure to clean up after them!
Rammell Mountain Road
Grooming As Needed
Last Updated: 12/19
The Teton Basin Ranger District Will begin grooming as snow conditions allow. Think Snow!
Trail Etiquette: Please keep your dogs leashed in the parking lot and be sure to clean up after them!
South Leigh Road
Grooming As Needed
Last Updated: 12/19
The Teton Basin Ranger District Will begin grooming as snow conditions allow. Think Snow!
Trail Etiquette: Please keep your dogs leashed in the parking lot and be sure to clean up after them!
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.
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.
JHSC – Johnny Curtis Memorial JNQ
Saturday, January 13th
Trail Creek Nordic Center
The Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club is hosting the first Intermountain and High Plains Junior National Qualifier and Wyoming High School race January 13-14 at Trail Creek Ranch in Wilson, WY. IMD and High Plains NRL events will be held January 13-14 and WY High School events will be held January 12-13.
Spud Chase
Saturday, January 20th
Teton Reserve Nordic Trails
9am – 1pm
The Spud Chase is back at Teton Reserve! We are going to have Adult, Junior and Kids divisions, so make sure to bring the whole family for a fun morning of Nordic skiing. The course starts at 6,150 feet.
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/
