Grand Teton Mountains

There is far more to Wyoming than Wild West history, shoot-outs and empty land. There are mountains (seven ranges), and there is snow (more than 400-600 inches). Where snow falls on mountains, there are also snowboarders. And skiers. And ski resorts. There are many opportunities to test riding ability in the “Equality State”.

THE HILLS

Grand Targhee is considered the heart of Grand Teton National Park. With more than 2000 acres of skiable, lift serviced terrain and an average annual snowfall of 500 inches, Grand Targhee has long been a favorite winter destination. Powder hounds will love the great opportunity found in Snowcat skiing on the 100 acres of Peaked Mountain. Trick riders will love the varied landscape. Grand Targhee is one huge natural terrain park. Jumps, glades and natural half pipes abound.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the largest and best known resort in the state. It has been a skiers haven since the 1800s, and has remained, for the most part, as it has always been. Wooden boardwalks lead the way toward some of the most challenging slopes in the United States. The 100 trails, the longest of which is 38,000 feet (11,582 meters) and the longest continual run anywhere in the country, have gained considerable attention for their more than 400 annual inches of flakes. That, and the fact that The Hole claims to offer more acres per skier than any other resort in the USA have gone a long way to securing the reputation as the top resort in the state. Maybe the regular appearances in Warren Miller's annual ski film and festival plays a hand in that popularity as well. "The Gateway to Yellowstone" boasts a world class ski and snowboard school, founded by Olympic gold medallist and U.S. Hall of famer Pepi Stiegler. And as an added bonus, for those who haven't had their fill of the fresh by the time the lifts close, a day pass to JHMR also includes use of the many cross-country trails at the Jackson Hole Nordic Center.

The Snow King Resort may be the smallest resort in the state, but it offers great value in its five day, three mountain pass. This is not only a fantastic value, it provides an excellent way to experience Wyoming winter fun. The "Ski All 3" package allows riders to choose which resort to ride on a day to day basis. Included in the price is accommodation and breakfast at Snow King Resort, lift tickets and transportation to and from Snow King, Grand Targhee or Jackson Hole resorts. Riders can discover what the resorts offer, or follow the falling snow. Wyoming's first ski resort offers great night skiing (the only resort in the state to offer it) and just over 18 miles (about 30 kilometers) of cross country as well. Like its larger counterpart, Snow King also offers an excellent ski school for ages four and up.

Snowshoeing to the Backcountry

The resorts are one thing, the Wyoming backcountry is another. The valley known as Jackson Hole is on the southern edge of Grand Teton National Park. It is in this valley that Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King can be found. Grand Targhee is in the heart of the Tetons. These are ideal locations for big snowfalls, and the surrounding mountain ranges make for some superb backcountry adventures.

Snowshoeing is by far the purest, cleanest, most adventurous approach. Modern, lightweight snowshoes are available for rent in most towns in the area, but visitors may have to drive a little further to find avalanche gear. If possible, bringing essential items can be an asset. The only other thing required is a way to get out there. It is advised that visitors consult local weather stations for impending changes in the forecast and to see what roads are open.

With a good pair of snowshoes, any mountain becomes a potential free for all, as long as the legs can manage. Which is something to consider prior to planning a trip. It is no fun to get to the mountain and only be able to hike half way up one or two times and then have to call it a day. Visitors should know their hiking abilities as well as their riding abilities. It is important to note that snowshoeing is not like hiking. It is often more difficult to climb straight up than it is to zigzag across the mountain face. Strategy becomes more and more helpful the higher one gets, and can really save the legs for the ride down. That said, there is nothing like the thrill of having a mountain, clean air and fresh powder all to one's self.

	Snowmobiling Fun

Snowcat skiing is a reasonably affordable method for reaching the freshest untracked slopes, and is much more enjoyable than snowshoeing up a mountain with riding gear, avalanche gear, food, water and any extra "just in case" goodies one might want to bring. It can also take riders much further up the mountain. Guided tours are a fun and safe way to experience the freedom of the great wide open. The same can be said for snowmobiles, which can also be rented in Jackson Hole. Snomobiling brings additional fun to the mix, as snowmobiles are fun in themselves. Caution is advised, however, because these are powerful machines. Operating them requires the same common sense and awareness as a car. Not only that, there are no guides. A compass, a good map and map reading skills are an asset.

Hopeful visitors to Wyoming must be at least 12 years of age to operate a snowmobile, and anyone under the age of 17 requires adult supervision. On the plus side, rentals include a snowsuit, helmet and good boots, for those who don't have their own.

Dropping In

Heli Skiing is also gaining popularity here. It is certainly the most expensive form of backcountry riding, but it is also arguably the most fun. The cost is a deterrent for many, so it is rare that the slopes reserved for heli adventures are very busy. This means those willing to pay the extra money have the entire mountain, and all its snow, to themselves. To counter the higher cost, heli companies typically offer a guarantee on how much riding one can get in. Unlike snowmobiling, heli-skiing comes with a guide. Heli guides lead a team, usually no more than five riders, and are trained to find the best ridable snow on the highest peaks in the area. Supplies, and often meals are provided by heli tour companies, so prospective riders can be sure the gear is in top working condition. Not all companies offer the same comforts, so it is a good idea to ask what is included in the price. For example, some guarantee a minimum number of runs in a day where others guarantee total vertical feet ridden.

There is also winter fun for those who don't care for downhill riding. Cross country skiing is always popular, and there are many trails through which visitors can explore and enjoy the winter atmosphere of Wyoming. The mountainous terrain does create some steeper trails more suited to aggressive skiers, but there is plenty of opportunity for the more relaxed cross-country adventure. Supplies for cross country, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snow tubing and ice skating can be rented in many towns near the ski resorts.

For interest, also check out these WorldWeb travel guide articles:

Skiing and Snowboarding in Canada

Skiing and Snowboarding in the USA

	Ski Cross Country

CLIMATE

Weather patterns are erratic and unpredictable. The higher altitudes (Grand Targhee is 8000 feet above sea level) also create much colder temperatures than many places in the United States, so clothing is important. Winter is generally a little longer here, and can last into May. That said, temperatures rarely drop much below 0º. The coldest temperature ever recorded was a frosty -66º Fahrenheit in 1933, but those days are incredibly rare. Still, layering is the way to go. It is warmer, and allows for the adding or removing of clothing according to changes in the weather throughout the day. The idea is to stay warm and dry, and modern sport clothing goes a long way as far as keeping the snow out while not trapping perspiration in. High tech fabrics are part of the package, but design is also important. Waterproofing, breathability and venting should be considered prior to purchasing expensive winter attire.