With the Teton Range towering to the West, the Gros Ventre Mountains to the East, and the winding Snake River Range to the South, our small mountain town of Jackson, Wyoming displays some of America's most stunning mountain scenery. Most know the valley as an iconic Alpine skiing destination, but it also serves as a Nordic skiers' paradise. With a yearly average of 400 inches of annual snowfall (https://www.jacksonhole.com/blog/teton-flow), Jackson’s network of groomed trails cater to everyone from first-time skiers to seasoned athletes. From the Cache Creek trails just minutes from town square to the peaceful landscapes of Grand Teton National Park, this area has over 200 miles of maintained Nordic tracks (https://visitjacksonhole.com/activities/cross-country-skiing). Whether you're gliding through snow-draped forests, traversing open meadows, or taking in breathtaking mountain views, Jackson’s Nordic skiing scene combines world-class terrain with the wild beauty of the West.
If you're starting your day near downtown Jackson, head east up Cache Creek Drive to access the trailhead parking lot for groomed and skier-tracked trails. The Cache Creek trail system offers 9.4 miles of groomed Nordic tracks starting at 6,200 feet elevation. The main trail follows the creek before branching into several loops, perfect for those wanting to find some wildlife. The trails are groomed Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday typically starting by 9 AM during the winter season but you can also check out the local Nordic Alliance Grooming Report. If you're looking for a gentle warm-up, begin at the turn onto Cache Creek Road before connecting to Putt-Putt or exploring more challenging Sink or Swim and Game Creek loops. The earlier the better with these tracks and due to its proximity to town, these trails can get crowded and icy so make sure to be aware of those around you.
“Hagen Trail -.” JHNordic, jhnordic.com/trails/hagen-trail-/. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.
Grand Teton National Park offers two primary Nordic skiing areas. The snow-covered Teton Park Road stretches for a 15-mile round trip, groomed daily during the winter season from December 1st through mid-March. Follow the signs to park at the Taggart Lake trailhead where you can access the Teton Park Road, providing unobstructed views of the Teton Range and frequent wildlife sightings. Both classic and skate ski tracks are maintained and available for use. The first 3 miles are relatively flat, making it perfect for beginners, while the section beyond Bradley Lake junction offers more challenging terrain. Grooming can be delayed after heavy snowfall so most recommend to wait a day for it to be completed and avoid skiing in late afternoon due to tracks getting too icy.
From the same parking area, you can also access the Taggart Lake Trail, a 3-mile loop perfect for intermediate skiers. The trail climbs around 400 feet in elevation through a pine forest before reaching the frozen alpine lake, proving to be one of Grand Teton’s most rewarding Nordic trails. As you travel up, you will cross over several streams and groves of pines and aspens. Be on the lookout for orange diamond trail markers, the route can be hard to follow after fresh snow. The morning hours are optimal with firm and fresh snow before the sun affects the tracks, but watching the sun set over the Tetons while having a picnic at the lake can also be a perfect way to end the day.
“Bradley and Taggart Lakes -.” JHNordic, jhnordic.com/trails/bradley-and-taggart-lakes/. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.
If you are looking for a more private experience, the Turpin Meadow Ranch offers over 12 miles of groomed Nordic trails. The historic ranch, established in 1906, now functions as a full-service Nordic center from December through March. The trails range from the flat 1.8 mile Buffalo Valley Loop to the challenging 3.1 mile Antelope Butte climb with 500 feet elevation gain. If you're a first- timer, try starting with the 1.2-mile flat Meadow Loop with mountain views to warm up. If you're a visitor trying to get after it, aim to get out there early, skiing the upper trails in the morning when snow is firm, saving lower elevation runs for the afternoon for prime skiing terrain. The historic ranch offers a full-service experience with equipment rentals, lessons, and an on-site restaurant. Day passes run $25/day, and the ranch hosts regular events like full moon skiing and Wednesday wine socials.
Trail Creek Nordic Center, just right outside of downtown Wilson, has 10 miles of trails ranging from peaceful forest loops to challenging climbs with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. They keep their trails well-marked and balanced for all skill levels while also offering a 1.2-mile lit loop for night skiing. Beginners can start on the gentle 2-mile Valley View Loop, while intermediate skiers tackle the challenging 3-mile Timber Loop for Teton views. The terrain naturally divides into lower trails winding along Trail Creek and upper mountain trails for more technical skiing. For advanced skiers, the upper mountain combines steep climbs, downhills, and exposed ridgeline skiing with stunning mountain panoramas.
Shooting Star Nordic Track, located in Teton Village, transforms a golf course into 4.3 miles of groomed winter trails. This members-only facility offers wide-open spaces with rolling hills and no sudden climbs or steep descents. The flat terrain makes this ideal for beginners and fitness skaters, with both classic and skate skiing tracks groomed daily by 8 AM. The main loop follows the golf course perimeter, winding past snow-covered water features and aspen trees. Three connector trails cut across the course, letting skiers create shorter loops ranging from 1 to 3 miles. The western side provides unobstructed views of the Tetons, while the eastern edge borders a wetland area frequented by moose and elk great for wildlife watching. Due to how exposed the trails are, the tracks can close during high winds and heavy snowfall so be sure to check out the Shooting Star website before heading out.
Teton Pines Nordic Center, located 4 miles west of Jackson on Moose-Wilson Road, offers 10 miles of expertly groomed trails across a golf course setting similar to Shooting Star, but with more varied terrain. The track has a mix of open meadows and sheltered forest sections, with enough hills to keep advanced skiers interested while remaining approachable for beginners. What sets Teton Pines apart is its intermediate terrain and consistent grooming - many locals prefer it to Shooting Star for regular training. As a members-only facility, it provides an exceptional Nordic experience for those who have joined the club. The center's location, protected from valley winds by trees, often means better snow conditions than others with more exposed venues. The trail system also divides into distinct sections that cater to each skill level. The main 3.5-mile outer loop connects to various inner trails allowing skiers to choose their distance and difficulty. For a warmup, start on the East Meadow Loop moving towards the North Woods trail for tight tree runs or the South Ridge climb.
JHNordic. “Teton Pines Nordic Center Is Groomed Today and Open for the Season.” Jackson Hole Nordic Alliance, 15 May 2020, jhnordic.com/teton-pines-nordic-center-is-groomed-today-and-open-for-the-season/.
While each venue has its own character, they all share the spectacular Teton backdrop and reliable snow conditions from December through March. Whether you're seeking technical challenges, scenic cruising, or night skiing, Jackson's Nordic trail systems offer world-class options for every skill level and interest. Each location maintains daily grooming schedules, typically completed by 9 AM. Trail conditions can change rapidly with weather, so check venue websites or call ahead before setting out. Multi-day visitors should consider the Grand Pass for $150, which provides access to most Nordic areas around Jackson for the season or can purchase daily passes that range from $15-$25 a day. When looking for rentals, Skinny Skis in downtown Jackson, Trail Creek, and Turpin Meadow Ranch all offer complete packages including skis, boots, and poles but make sure to book in advance during the holidays. Remember, safety is crucial during this season, check daily avalanche reports at www.jhavalanche.org, particularly for backcountry areas, dress in layers as temperatures can swing 30 degrees in a day, carry water and snacks, and download trail maps before heading out as cell service can vary. Most importantly, take time to stop and appreciate the views—you're skiing in some of the most spectacular terrain North America has to offer.
