Off The Beaten Path: Winter Activities In Jackson Hole

The Jackson Hole skiing area is often considered one of the best skiing destinations in the nation. The advanced trails, backcountry thrills and multitude of winter activities make it the perfect place for ski bums and vacationers to hang. Besides the obvious ski trails and mountain resorts, the Jackson Hole skiing area has a lot to offer thrill seekers.

Here are a few options for those ski enthusiasts looking for adventure off the beaten path:

Cross-Country Skiing

The Jackson Hole area offers many groomed and un-groomed trails for all cross-country expert levels. In Jackson Hole, skiing cross-country is more than just a recreational activity, however. It is an amazing opportunity to take in the splendor and beauty of Yellowstone National Park and its surrounding area.

Winter snows bring changes to the landscape and animals migrating or preparing to hibernate are often seen when cross-country skiing in remote areas. Remember, it is healthier for the animals if skiers observe through binoculars or high-powered lenses rather than trying to physically get as close as possible!

Heli-Skiing

Jackson Hole skiing also offers extreme thrill-seekers the opportunity to participate in a relatively new form of skiing called heli-skiing. Expert skiers or snowboarders can experience an amazing helicopter tour as they are lifted high above the valley floor to the untouched snow-fields of the Rocky Mountains. Skiing this pristine snow is often the highlight of any trip to the area. Heli-ski trips are typically exclusive and include a guide trained to find the best snow on the highest peaks and no more than five or six skiers.

Snowcat Skiing

One of the most unusual activities that Jackson Hole skiing offers is called snowcat skiing. For those groups who seek the thrill of heli-skiing but cannot afford its price tag, snowcat skiing is a great alternative. A snowcat is a tracked, truck-like vehicle that can literally climb snowy mountains. Trips usually take up to ten skiers and can cover up to 20,000 vertical feet in a day! It is the perfect way to push your skiing limits without emptying your pocketbook.

Dog Sledding

For some who visit Jackson Hole, skiing is not the only draw. The thrill of riding behind a pack of sled dogs as they twist and turn their way through snowy mountain trails is enough for even expert skiers to put their skis away for an afternoon! Jackson Hole is home to some of the most experienced sled drivers in the world. Several companies offer one-hour, half-day, full-day and even overnight trips to fantastic overlooks or hot springs pools.

Snowmobiling

For many in Jackson Hole, skiing takes a backseat to the thrill and excitement of snowmobiling through the amazing landscapes the area has to offer. Many companies offer guided tours into spectacular Granite Hot Springs, wildlife tours in the Gros Ventre area and even 2-3 day overnight trips. Floating on fresh powder, forging a trail where nobody has been before - these are the thrills that keep people coming back for more!

Jackson Hole offers even more winter activities like snowshoeing, mountain climbing, telemarking, sleigh rides and wildlife tours. It is truly a destination for everyone - families, retirees, extreme athletes and weekend skiers.