Jackson Hole, Wyoming, USA

General Feel

Jackson Hole is the USA's extreme destination. Most people have seen this resort in ski movies. It is the home base of ski movie production company, TGR (Teton Gravity Research). Jackson Hole's remoteness adds to its reputation as an extreme destination. It's terrain and locals back up this reputation.

Skiing Magazine was very impressed with Jackson,which totally deserved the approval because this ski spot literally has it all – powder, cliffs, trees, steeps, backcountry, few crowds, family terrain, a village, a town, and so much more. Jackson Hole ranked #2 overall, #1 for steeps, #2 for trees, and #1 for backcountry. This place rocks.

• Average Snowfall: 459 in
• Acres: 2500
• Runs: 116
• Lifts: 11
• Vertical: 4139 ft/1261m (Longest in North America)
• Elevation: 10450 ft/ 3185 m
• Terrain;
• Beginner – 10%
• Intermediate – 40%
• Expert – 50%

Off/Piste

Jackson is known for its deep powder. It is not very crowded except during the busy holidays, when every resort seems busy. Take a ride on the new tram from the base to the highest peak. The view peers into the picturesque Grand Teton National Park. The terrain from the top is epic. From here you can drop into the infamous Corbet's Couloir or rip down Rendezvous Bowl down toward the open gullies - the Hobacks. From the top of the Gondola, hike up to Headwall or Casper Bowl to ski some steeps with huge cliff bands.

Jackson’s terrain is famous for its open backcountry gate system, so if you have a beacon, shovel, probe, buddy, some avalanche training, and the conditions permit, be sure to head out of bounds to check out some real eye-popping terrain. There are 6 gates and over 5000 accessible backcountry acres. This place is steep. The average expert pitch is 33 degrees and Corbet's hits 45 degrees. I recommend not missing the Alta Chutes for steep lines. Ski Cheyenne Woods for nicely spaced trees. Jackson boasts over 1790 acres of gladed terrain.

You may be drooling thinking about a knee-deep powder day at Jackson Hole.

Family

This resort also caters to the little ones. Jackson Kids Ranch program includes children in the ski experience and brings the mountain down a notch so that it is fun for the whole family. Plus the town of Jackson has plenty of options for the family.

Food

As for the resort scene, overall it is great. There are plenty of good choices including the Snake River Grill, Calico's, Mangy Moose, or the Snake River Brewing Company. Cheaper food and accommodations can be found in the town of Jackson, which is a simple commute.

It is best to ski Jackson Terrain in the late season, once a solid snow base has been established. Be sure to bring your fat skis, you'll need them. The endless, epic terrain at Jackson is not a dream. It's real and you can go ski there and never come back.
Did I mention that the resort now uses 100% renewable energy? That's the cherry on top of all the other cool stuff.

Disclaimer

This article was submitted by a serious skier, Mr Derek L based in USA.