While many of us dream of clipping into our skis for early-season skiing in Jackson Hole, this November, you can still see the roots and rocks beneath your feet. A forecast predicts another 3 inches of snow this weekend in Jackson, with a few more inches expected into Thanksgiving week, and we’re all ready for it. Until then, we patiently wait for the snow to fall, fill in nicely, and for temperatures to drop, creating a stable snowpack.
When the snow starts to arrive, it will naturally fill in on trails at a higher elevation sooner. 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 the Jackson Hole area. For early-season adventures, we advise looking for trails above 8,000 ft.
Sign-up for the Daily Trail Report
Be sure to sign up for our Trail Reports to get the most up-to-date information on grooming in the area, you can even select what days you’d like to receive our daily grooming newsletter update.
Here are some of our favorite early-season spots – save these for when the snow falls:
Early Season Trail Highlights:
Mt. Elly: This Teton Pass-South trail offers spectacular mountain vistas. You’ll find views of Mt. Glory to the north and central Jackson Hole to the east. Starting at an elevation of 8,500 ft, it’s often one of the first trails to receive and hold early-season snow. This makes Mt. Elly an excellent option after the first few snowfalls. The trail is skied as an “out-and-back” on skinny cross-country skis. Depending on avalanche conditions, you may choose to stay along the ridge to avoid crossing avalanche-prone slopes.
Grand Targhee Nordic Trails: Four loops of intermediate to advanced groomed trails await Nordic skiers and fat bikers. Opening day is set for Friday, November 22, 2024, at 9 AM (weather permitting), running through April 20, 2025.
(Off Togwotee Pass) Brooks Lake: A beautiful ski through the Bridger-Teton National Forest with stunning views of the Pinnacles
(Off Togwotee Pass) Rosie’s Ridge: Wide Teton views off the western ridge, following a Forest service road perfect for both skiing and fat biking
Yellowstone Ski Festival: A beloved Thanksgiving tradition drawing competitive athletes, novice skiers, and families from around the world. Enjoy 35-50K of groomed trails, opening the week before Thanksgiving.
Trail Creek: The Trail Creek Nordic Training Facility’s higher elevation means it’s often among the first trails to open once weather permits.
Teton Canyon: This Alta, Wyoming gem offers outstanding views of the Grand, Middle, and South Tetons from the western side. Groomed by Teton Valley Trails and Pathways (TVTAP) – be sure to sign up for our Trail Reports. Daily Trail Reports are your source to for the most up-to-date grooming information!
Getting Outside While We Wait in Jackson Hole
While we wait for the snow to arrive, it’s still important to get outside. Here are some great options to get your daily dose of Vitamin D:
- Take a walk along the Snake River Dike or up Cache Creek
- Explore GTNP up to Taggart Lake (friendly reminder: dogs are only allowed on paved and groomed trails, leashed)
- Join Wyoming Stargazing for free public events on clear Thursdays at Rendezvous Park
- Sign up for the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day (November 28, 9 am) at Wilson Boat Ramp
- Not technically outside but you’ll still need a beanie. Catch the Jackson Hole Moose Hockey season opener on Friday, November 15th at Snow King Events Center
Still feeling anxious to get your skis on in Jackson Hole? Put your energy towards working on ski fit training and take time to make sure all your gear is in order. You don’t want any setbacks when you reach for your gear on the first day and find something missing. Visit our favorite local gear vendors to get equipped for the season ahead in Jackson Hole!
