7.2 miles

Fox Creek

Teton Valley

Fee: $0.00

Access:

From Jackson, take Hwy 22 west over Teton Pass to Victor, ID. Drive north on ID Hwy 33 to 5000 N. (Fox Creek Road). Turn right (east) and drive across the flat valley into Fox Creek Canyon until the road snowplowing ends. Please be courteous to leave room for other vehicles.

Description:

Fox Creek is a beautiful, wild valley that extends east from Teton Valley into the heart of the western Tetons, culminating at Fox Creek Pass. The trail is typically an "out-and-back" route, allowing for a relatively short outing or a full-day adventure to the head of the valley. While Fox Creek shares similarities with Moose Creek, it offers more challenges due to route finding and traversing steep side slopes.

Parking: Parking locations vary depending on snow cover, but it can begin near the summer trailhead or quarry gate, or as much as a mile down the forest service road.

Skiing Experience: This trail is ideal for experienced backcountry cross-country skiers and adventurers looking for a wild and less-frequented winter route. Fox Creek provides the opportunity to break trail and explore the untouched beauty of the valley.

Directions:

Beginnings: Commence your skiing adventure on the snow-covered road. Depending on snow conditions, your starting point may be near the summer trailhead or as far as a mile down the forest service road. Continue up the quarry road into the quarry base area. Keep an eye out for Fox Creek, located on the right and marked by a low dam. Cross the creek above the dam and pond, which should be snow-covered. Ski tracks may or may not be available to follow, depending on recent snowfall. It's important to be prepared to break your trail, as Fox Creek is not frequently traveled during winter, offering solitude and tranquility.

Uphill Stretch: The trail proceeds east along the south slope, winding through mixed conifer and aspen forests, running parallel to the creek. Periodically, the trail will descend to creek level and cross the creek. At approximately 1 mile above the quarry base, the trail crosses a wooden bridge to the north side and gradually ascends the slope. While traversing open meadows and moderately steep slopes, you'll find yourself approximately 400 feet above the valley floor. Caution is necessary when crossing these slopes due to avalanche risks from above and exposure above steep downhill sections. If you lack metal edges and strong downhill skiing skills, it's advisable to turn back at this point.

Views: Beyond the open steep slope crossing, the trail returns to the valley floor at creek level.At around 4 miles into the route, the valley begins to widen, providing panoramic views of the upper valley.

Extended Exploration: Depending on your time, preparedness, snow conditions, and skill level, you can venture up toward the head of the valley, offering a more challenging and longer exploration. Before heading out, be sure to check the snow and avalanche conditions, have a plan, bring food, water, warm layers.

Winter Conditions: Fox Creek is not groomed, may have a skier track from previous skiers, and may require breaking your own trail. Given its lower level of winter traffic, you can often enjoy the entire valley in solitude.