Winter is full of life in Jackson Hole and Teton Valley! Winter trails are popular for locals and tourists alike to gain a full experience of the landscape draped in white. Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance promotes that we all Winter Responsibly to help preserve our snowy resource, minimize unintended harm when the snow melts out, and help users who are enjoying different modes of travel share the trails so everyone can maximize the joys of being outside. Winter Trail Etiquette and Winter Responsibly is a simple set of practices: share the trail, respect the wildlife, leash dogs at trailheads, and be kind and considerate of others.
With an active community of trail-loving users, we’re committed to making the winter trails a place where everyone can enjoy time recreating with minimal impact on the local environment. Here are a few small tactics that can make winter recreation more enjoyable for everyone.
Nordic Skiers
- If you are skiing on a groomed track, stay on the groomed track.
- Follow designated trails and adhere to posted signs and markers at all trailheads.
- Look for trail etiquette posters when you arrive.
- In general, maintain a position on the far right of trails, unless passing. This helps ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
- Give space for other skiers and maintain a reasonable speed, especially in crowded areas, like the Taggart Lake to Signal Mountain groomed area in Grand Teton National Park.
If you are just getting started with Nordic skiing, check out this resource to find everything you’ll need to get started.
Snowshoers
- Avoid traveling on top of groomed ski tracks and opt for trail edges.
- Use marked snowshoe trails in high-use areas.
- Snowshoers yield to skiers, especially when on narrow pathways. If necessary, step aside to let faster users pass.
- Be conscious of sensitive wildlife habitats and consider changing routes to avoid disturbing animals.
Looking for snowshoe adventures in Grand Teton National Park? This blog article highlights top places to get started with snowshoeing.
Fat Bikers
- Ride on designated fat bike trails, which are sometimes also groomed ski trails.
- On shared trails, fat bikers yield to all other trail users.
- Consider walking through congested areas.
- Look up local trail conditions before any adventures. Follow trail status updates and closures.
- Use tires that are 3.8″ or wider. It may be necessary to drastically reduce tire air pressure to minimize ruts and increase traction.
- Ride when the trail is firm. If you are leaving ruts 1″ or deeper, the trail is soft and riding it negatively impacts the groomed trail for all users.
- If on a shared ski trail, stay to the side (unless otherwise posted). Avoid riding on or over the classic skier track.
- Consider turning around or riding an alternate route if wildlife is present.
Explore all 57 trails that are fat bike friendly.
Here are a few top fat bike trails to enjoy in Jackson Hole and Teton Valley.
Winter Trail Etiquette: Is your dog coming along?
If recreating with your dog, please remember to keep them on a leash at trailheads and when local regulations indicate dogs must be on a leash. Clean up after your pup and pack out any waste. Be sure to always check the local trailheads for conditions, wildlife warnings, and other pertinent information.
Maintaining winter trail etiquette not only demonstrates consideration for others but also fosters camaraderie within the winter trail community. It plays a pivotal role in preserving the natural environment and trail systems while contributing to the safety and overall enjoyment of everyone engaged in winter activities. Thank you for your kindness while using the winter trail systems and for helping our team foster a community where everyone can thrive while spending time in our wild and beautiful backyard.
