Winter in the Tetons

While skiing in Jackson Hole is certainly the biggest and most well known draw to the area in the winter, there is still plenty to do for the non skier as well. Cross county skiing can be a great way to tour parts of the snow covered Grand Teton National park. The inner park road is closed from the Taggart lake trailhead to Signal mountain. It is maintained for both traditional and skate cross country skiing. Leaving from Taggart lake is popular and can be busy at times. Taking the longer drive up and around to Signal mountain can reward skiers with excellent views of the Tetons and often an almost solitary experience. Many of the popular trails around Colter bay are also accessible by skis or snowshoes. No formal grooming happens here but the trails often have a packed base from travel, be prepared to re break the trail after a big snow storm.

Those looking for a more relaxed activity can take a guided sleigh ride on the National Elk refuge. The tour leaves from the Visitors Center on the north side of town where a bus takes you on a short ride to refuge where you are transferred to a horse drawn sleigh. The tour lasts about an hour and affords excellent views of the Tetons and often allows you to get much closer to the herds of elk than you might otherwise be able to. The Elk refuge is home to several thousand elk every winter and is an important part of their natural migrations routes through the area. The open nature of the refuge means it can be more windy and cold than if you are in town so be sure to dress warmly. You can access the backside of the refuge by taking Broadway Ave all the way east and following the road to the north onto the refugee. Often times Big horn sheep can be seen on the hillside of Miller butte.

Astoria hot springs south of town is another great winter activity and relaxing way to wrap up your day. Natural mineral hot springs are directed into man made pools on the banks of the Snake river. Please check their website as reservations may be required.