Above 8000 feet for early cross-country skiing and fat biking is where it’s at!
The Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone area offers a wide array of cross country ski and fat biking opportunities. Undoubtedly, there is an adventure available for all skill and thrill levels. From the jaw dropping views at Teton and Towgothee Passes to the more laid-back terrain surrounding Taggart Lake. When the winter nordic ski season starts, there is no end to the wonder you can experience in our own backyard.
As the snow begins to fall at elevation, JHNordic is watching the snow line carefully to see when and where there might be enough snow base for our cross-country ski or fat bike winter excursions. In addition, we advise you to look for ski/fat bike trails above 8000 ft (or snow-line).
To begin preparing for your season, be sure to include a schedule of dynamic/balance stretching and cardio workouts to avoid excess strain on cold ligaments, which would leave you prone to injury. Be sure to bring your bear spray, as well, since bears are not quite in hibernation and could be anywhere. Find our staff picks for the early season favorite ski/fat bike trails below.
Early Season Nordic & Fat Bike Trails
Early Season Cross-country classic or BC Nordic and fat bike faves
(snow dependent for Nordic XC and BC skis) include:
Ski with spectacular views of surrounding mountains, including Mt. Glory to the north and central Jackson to the east
A beautiful ski through the Bridger-Teton National Forest with stunning views of the Pinnacles
Wide Teton views off western ridge of Togwotee, follows a Forest service road for both ski/fat bike trails
Grand Targhee Nordic and Fat Bike trails – Resort opens Nov 18
Four loops of intermediate to advanced groomed trail for nordic ski/fat bike trails
West Yellowstone Rendezvous Trails – Nordic only
35-50K of groomed trails for nordic skiing, opening the week prior to Thanksgiving
Fat bikes ride well on dirt, gravel AND snow, making these trails perfect for the early season (fat bikes -not nordic skis!)
Recreate Responsibly on Jackson Hole Winter Trails
The winter season offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing. Elk, deer, moose, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and trumpeter swans are all animals you may come across during winter recreation. Learn more about wildlife on the Bridger-Teton National Forest and what you can do to help critters survive harsh conditions.
