Daily Trail Report for 1.31.26.
Less snow doesn’t necessarily mean less winter fun, especially (as we all know) on Nordic skis, snowshoes and fat bikes! Hit the trails this weekend, enjoy the sunshine, and let movement & fresh air lift your spirits. Whether racing, exploring, or just getting outside, this winter is still full of adventure if you look for it.
At a Glance
- Grooming updates
- Races today at Trail Creek and Grand Targhee – busy parking
- Nordic distracts from snowless winter
- Solid ski tips for enjoying the challenges we face
General Weather – Bluebird-ish
Winter bugs are going around and a health practitioner recently told me “if there are shadows on the ground, yours should be one of them.” Beat the winter crud: get outside and get some movement. See the full forecast at Mountain Weather.
What’s Groomed Today?
Planned Saturday Grooming
Daily grooming
All four of these Nordic Centers so far are maintaining enough snow for consistent grooming and terrific track skiing. 🙂
Check the grooming page – see what else gets groomed today
Grooming in both valleys is once again a balance of preserving snow, preserving the earth underneath and keeping the tracks in great shape for skiers. Some tracks are getting extra grooms and some are again on hold until there is more snow. Hooray for the groomers for working such magic!
We do our best to bring you the full story every morning, and the most current trail conditions can always be viewed online at: www.jhnordic.com/grooming/
Groomer Updates
Shooting Star Nordic
Conditions will remain calm and sunny as we complete the meteorological version of dry January. Snow coverage remains thin and some newer bare areas may begin to form over the next week as temperatures will warm above freezing during the afternoon hours. Overall skiing should be enjoyable.
Trail Notes
- All trails will be open and groomed except for the Ranch Section
- Sled hill remains closed until more snow accumulates
- No classic tracks set due to thin coverage
- Grooming frequencies will vary to preserve snow coverage
- Early season conditions persist (bare, rough, inconsistent surfaces/firmness)
- Walking, snowshoeing, biking are NOT allowed
Grand Targhee
We picked up 3 inches of fresh snow in the last 24 hours, grooming is dialed, and the Teton Ridge Classic course is skiing really well. Targhee and TVTAP will be back out grooming again Friday night from 1:00–5:00 AM to set things up for race day. These will be the best classic tracks of the year. Don’t miss out, even if you’re not racing today conditions should remain excellent tomorrow.
Trail Creek Nordic
The Close Field will be closed today for the Wyoming Highschool Nordic Competition; however you are still welcome to ski in the woods via the end of the Old Pass Road.
Groomer’s choice for today is to cheer the racers.
Making friends with Winter as is
In a recent Mountainside column, author Molly Absolon reflects on how Nordic skiing has become a bright spot during a snow-lean winter offering a simple way to stay active, grounded, and connected to the outdoors. Even when conditions aren’t ideal, gliding on skis provides movement, perspective, and joy, proof that this winter still has plenty to offer. It’s a timely reminder that getting out on the trails can lift spirits and help us make the most of the season we’re in.
Making friends with hilly high-elevation
Erich Wilbrecht’s insights on racing the Teton Ridge Classic go beyond a single course, offering practical guidance for Nordic skiing throughout the Tetons. Whether or not you’re skiing the Teton Ridge Classic today give this article a read to learn about managing altitude, uphills, kick, pacing, hydration, and most importantly, perspective. These tips may help you stay strong, efficient, and relaxed in demanding high-elevation terrain. Every time you’re out on your skis is an opportunity to learn, build fitness, and enjoy the process.
Events & Info
Women’s Nordic Series
The Teton Women’s Nordic Series is back with some new fun twists!
Join SheJumps and Teton Nordic Ski School for a fun and social Nordic ski series. Register on Eventbrite.
Remaining dates: Feb 27 and Mar 11.
Skinny Skis Moose Chase 2/14
The 30th (mostly) Annual Skinny Skis Moose Chase Nordic Ski Race will be held at Trail Creek Nordic Training Facility in Wilson, WY, on February 14, 2026.
This premier Nordic race includes distances for all ages and ability levels, with a 20K, 10K, 5K, 2.5k and a free 1K. This is a skate, or freestyle, Nordic skiing event. There is no specific classic division and no classic tracks.
Or join us for a 1k Relay (1/2k lap with two people). Costumes encouraged!
