General Weather – Breezy with scattered precipitation
Mountain Weather is forecasting potential moisture, warmer temperatures, and breezy conditions the next few days. For a detailed daily forecast check out mountainweather.com.
What’s Groomed Today?
Every Day
- Turpin Meadow Ranch
- Trail Creek Nordic
- Teton Pines Nordic
- Shooting Star Nordic – season pass required
Sunday
Be sure to check the real-time grooming situation of your chosen trail by clicking the links above as trail grooming is dependent on conditions. Thank you groomers!
Trip Report: Brooks Lake via Barber’s Point Road
Some adventures start with a spark of spontaneity, and this was one of them. On Thursday, my husband and I decided to ski into Brooks Lake Lodge via Barber’s Point Road. When we left our home in Moran, the sky was draped in gray clouds, hardly the most motivating sight. But as we crested Togwotee Pass, the clouds suddenly pulled back like a curtain revealing a mostly sunny day. It was a welcome reminder that even when things seem gloomy, a little perspective shift (and in this case a scenic drive) can change everything. If you ever find yourself feeling stuck in the dreary weather, a quick trip to the east side of the continental divide might just be the antidote.
We parked at the summit of Togwotee Pass, where a couple of snowmobile trailers sat quietly in the lot. But to our delight, the trails were mostly ours to enjoy. Breaking trail along much of Barber’s Point Road added a touch of effort to the journey, but it only made the experience feel more immersive: just us, the rhythmic glide of our skis, and tracks left by a snowshoe hare. The conditions were generally kind, though we did have to pause and reapply express wax to keep the sticky snow at bay, a small inconvenience for an otherwise delightful day.
Our out-and-back route covered 10.6 miles, winding through winter landscapes of tree limbs heavy with snow, decorated with small icicles and mountain views of the Absarokas and the Wind River Range. And then, the ultimate reward: a warm, delicious meal at Brooks Lake Lodge. There’s something deeply satisfying about arriving somewhere under your own power, feeling strong and alive with every mile. As we skied back, full and content, I couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky we are to move our bodies, to freely explore, and to fully experience our public lands.
Snow Snakes
Snow snakes are a fascinating winter phenomenon of bonded snow that forms into long, rope-like shapes that drape over fences, tree branches, or other surfaces. These formations occur when temperature fluctuations cause snow and ice to partially melt and then refreeze, creating cohesive, elongated structures. Gravity plays a role in pulling the snow downward, shaping it into twisting or stretching forms. The presence of bonded ice crystals in the snowpack further strengthens these formations, allowing them to maintain their distinctive, snake-like appearance. When conditions are just right, snow snakes can grow several feet long and a many inches in diameter, adding a mystical quality to winter landscapes when they appear. Keep your eyes out for them on your next winter trail adventure!
A baby snow serpant in the wild up Teton Canyon, spotted and shared by Kathy G.
Events
Now Through March 9
The Best of Jackson Hole ballot is officially open and JH Nordic is nominated as the Best Family Friendly Activity under the Adventure & The Great Outdoors Category. Cast your vote now!
“Wild Hearts for Wild Places: Turning Adventure into Action”
Tuesday, February 25 6-7:30PM
The Teton Leadership Center and CWC invite the community to Teton County Library Ordway Auditorium for a free event exploring how outdoor professionals and enthusiasts can channel their passion for nature and adventure into meaningful careers and environmental advocacy.
Tuesday, February 25
Join the Peak Performance Instructors for the Skate Ski Nordic Nights series on Tuesdays, 4:30-6:00pm at Stilson. Drop-ins are welcome. Feb 25 and Mar 4. Cost is $50/session. Register here.
