Smart Luxury

Ski, Drink, and Explore in Jackson Hole This Winter

by  Amy Marturana Winderl | Feb 4, 2020
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole, Wyoming / TenleyThompson/iStock

It’s tough to find a town in the U.S. that loves winter sports more than Jackson Hole. With pristine wilderness surrounding the valley and a steady snowfall throughout the winter months carpeting the mountains in fresh, fluffy powder, Jackson Hole has become a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders across the country.

The Jackson Hole valley can be broken up into two areas: Teton Village, known as “the village,” and the town of Jackson, known as “town.” The village is where you’ll find Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, which features 2,500 acres of inbounds trails and access to backcountry skiing that you won’t find at many ski resorts elsewhere.

If you’re looking to plan a ski trip full of exhilarating runs, delicious food, and next-level après ski, make Jackson Hole your next winter getaway destination.

Where to Stay in Jackson Hole

Continuum TGR Hotel is the newest hotel on the Teton Village block, but don’t let that fool you. Thanks to its partnership with Teton Gravity Research (TGR), an extreme sports media company founded by and for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, the hotel lets you immerse yourself in the Jackson Hole mountain lifestyle.

The lobby is wide open, with soaring ceilings and lots of natural light flooding the industrial-chic metal beams, and a clear view of the pool and massive hot tub outside— the perfect place to warm up after a long day on the slopes, cocktail in hand. Speaking of which, the craft cocktails on the menu are unique and delicious. Try the Winterland, a mix of vodka, vanilla bean, and fresh mint; or the Edelweiss, with Great Grey local gin, matcha, cucumber, lemon, and egg white fizz. If beer is more your jam, they have a few good local options. Don’t leave without trying Sierra Nevada Skiesta, a Bavarian-style lager that’s as easy and fun to drink as its name suggests. 

Guest rooms are modern and minimal, with clean lines of white, black, gray, wood, and mustard yellow. Beds are adorned with cozy wool blankets and throw pillows. Choose from a classic king or double queen, or various loft options and suites with kitchenettes if you’ve got a crew with you. (Bonus: It’s dog friendly!)

The breakfast menu is also something to behold. If you woke up hungry, opt for the Breakfast Club, a hefty egg sandwich with bacon, cheddar, avocado, tomato, and spicy mayo, stuffed between two dense slices of sourdough bread. For a lighter option, go with the housemade granola piled high with fresh berries and banana slices. The all-day menu has the perfect mix of comfort foods like truffle mac and cheese, wood fired pizza, and tacos.

Room rates range from $161 to $390 during prime skiing time (January through March). Ask about the Ski. Shred. Repeat. package, which bundles your hotel stay with lift tickets and a $30 daily breakfast credit. The hotel offers special discounts on nightly rates for Ikon or Mountain Collective pass holders (20% off) and Golden Ticket pass holders (50% off). Next winter, look out for new packages that will give you a chance to ski with an athlete and videographer, so you can really get a taste of that TGR life firsthand.

What to Do in Jackson Hole

With some of the most breathtaking runs in North America, and easy access to backcountry trails, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village is a true winter sports playground. Daily lift tickets will run you $170 per person ($153 if you buy online ahead of time) during peak season, though prices drop a bit as you get into March and early April; ski season runs from Thanksgiving through mid-April. Jackson Hole is a mecca for advanced skiers and snowboarders, but even beginners can enjoy the gorgeous slopes dusted with fresh powder. The Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Mountain Sports School employs the best instructors out there (ask for Paul, he has next-level patience). A full-day lesson plus lift access will run you $235; a half-day is $195.

After a day on the mountain, get your après ski on at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole’s new igloo bar, Fahrenheit 47 (open to both hotel and non-hotel guests). The heated structure, furnished with wood floors and cozy fur seating, serves Moët & Chandon by the glass or bottle, plus champagne cocktails and light bites. The best part: The resort serves its iconic complimentary s’mores out of a foot shack next to the bar. If you prefer something more low-key, stop into the iconic Mangy Moose, an old Jackson Hole institution, for a beer and live music.

Need a break from downhill skiing? Try your hand at Nordic skiing, or take a ride on a fat bike along the Snake River. Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance maps out all the nearby trails and suggests rental companies so you can plan your own adventure.

About 12 miles southeast of Teton Village, you’ll find the town of Jackson. Take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge ($25 for adults), or peruse some of Jackson's best art galleries — there are over two dozen right in town — that feature works form local artists. Check out Wild by Nature for incredible prints of Wyoming wildlife. While you’re in town, snap a photo underneath the arches in the town square made of shed elk antlers. If you have a few extra days, head north to Grand Teton National Park or a bit further to Yellowstone National Park to get your fill of mountain backdrops, glistening geysers, and all of the wildlife the areas has to offer. Before heading back to the village, stop at Creekside Market & Deli to pick up a sloshie; the boozy slushies that have become just as much a part of the Jackson Hole culture as skiing.

Where to Eat in Jackson Hole

It may be a small ski destination in Wyoming, but Jackson Hole has food that can stand on its own against any bigger city. Glorietta Trattoria, located in the Anvil Hotel, is loved by locals and visitors alike. The Italian trattoria is sophisticated and cozy, and serves up Italian favorites like arancini and meatballs, steak, chicken, and fish, and impressive homemade pasta dishes, like campanelle with pesto and chili flakes and a baked number with elk bolognese. Wash it all down with an impressive menu of craft cocktails, local beers, and Italian wines. If Japanese is more your style, Suda Izakaya offers small plates and shareable dishes and serves up everything from sashimi to sushi rolls to ramen, skewers, and more. It sounds surprising, but Jackson Hole locals rave about the Thai food in the area. Sister restaurants Teton Thai and Teton Tiger serve up Asian favorites like street noodles and curry dishes and get glowing reviews.

Back at the mountain, a ride on the Aerial Tram will take you to the top of Rendezvous Peak, where you’ll find Corbet's Cabin. Here, you can visit the legendary Top of the World Waffles. Choose from waffles filled with Nutella, lemon glaze, brown sugar, or peanut butter and bacon, served hot and fresh: just make sure you get there before they run out. Ride to the top of Bridger Gondola for lunch with a view at Piste Mountain Bistro. Whatever you do, definitely start your meal with the warm cheddar biscuits.

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