Winter in Jackson Hole has a way of transforming the entire valley. The mountains turn a deeper shade of blue, fresh snow softens the landscape, and the pace of life settles into something a little more magical. Whether you’re planning a ski vacation, a holiday trip, or simply exploring what life here feels like in the colder months, winter is one of the most inspiring times to experience Jackson Hole and Teton Valley.
From choosing where to stay to finding the best après spots, here’s your complete guide to making the most of winter in the Tetons.
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Where to Stay
Jackson
Staying in town gives you the best of both worlds — a cozy mountain-town atmosphere with easy access to restaurants, shops, galleries, and the iconic Town Square. You’ll be close to everything, including Snow King Mountain for quick ski laps or night skiing, and only a 20 minute drive to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. For visitors who want to blend outdoor adventure with walkability and convenience, this is a great home base. Check out hotels around the Town Square like The Cloudveil if you’re looking for a higher end stay, or the Mountain Modern for walkability at a bit of a more reasonable price. For a more Airbnb style experience, check out rentals at the base of Snow King Resort through Outpost.
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Teton Village
If skiing is your priority, Teton Village puts you right at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Stepping out your door and walking to the gondola or tram is a luxury that makes winter days flow effortlessly. After the lifts close, the village comes alive with après restaurants, live music, and a relaxed energy that makes winter feel even more special. There are plenty of hotels and condo stays dotted throughout the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, all within walking distance of the slopes.
Teton Valley (Victor + Driggs, Idaho)
Just over the pass, Teton Valley offers a quieter, more laid-back feel while still being close to world-class skiing at Grand Targhee. Many visitors fall in love with this side of the Tetons for its open spaces and beautiful views of the range. It can also be a more affordable option for longer stays or families looking for more room to spread out. Many single family short term rental opportunities exist on this side of the Tetons, with room for the whole family.
What to Do
Winter in Jackson Hole is about far more than skiing, though the skiing is pretty incredible.
Skiing & Snowboarding
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Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers some of the best terrain in the country, from steep powder-filled runs, to mini-terrain parks, and beginner friendly slopes under the lifts.
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Snow King Mountain, the town hill, is perfect for quick morning turns or night skiing under the lights.
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Grand Targhee Resort is beloved for its consistent snowfall and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a mix of rolling terrain and steeps.
Winter Wildlife Experiences
Some of Jackson Hole’s most iconic wildlife moments happen in winter.
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Sleigh rides in the National Elk Refuge bring you close to one of the largest elk herds in the world. A popular winter activity, this one is a can’t miss!
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Moose linger near river corridors, and you might get a sighting driving back and fourth from the airport.
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Bighorn sheep gather along the buttes near the valley’s edge. Drive down the National Elk Refuge road to get a glimpse, but remember to give wildlife their space!
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Guided winter tours are a wonderful way to experience the landscape while learning about the animals that call this place home, and are available during the winter season and the summer.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
For a quieter way to enjoy winter, Jackson Hole has miles of groomed trails and peaceful forested routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
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Teton Pines offers beautifully maintained loops. Although located in a private golf course, non-members can buy passes at the Teton Pines Nordic Center to use the 10 miles of groomed trails.
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Cache Creek provides a calm, easy-to-access trail right from town. Ski or snowshoe up a gentle slope a few miles, and cruise right back to your vehicle.
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Turpin Meadow Ranch gives you skiing, rentals, and a warm lodge all in one place. About an hour's drive from Jackson, you’ll get plenty of stunning views along the way.
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Grand Teton National Park has great wildlife winter viewing and beautiful views of the Tetons along the closed park road.
Relaxation & Hot Springs
After a day in the snow, there’s nothing quite like a soak at Astoria Hot Springs. With mountain views and warm mineral pools, it’s a favorite winter ritual for locals and visitors alike.
Where to Eat & Après
One of the best parts of winter in Jackson Hole is fueling up for a cold day ahead or coming inside at the end of the adventure and relaxing with a hot drink and some food.
Coffee & Breakfast
Start your morning with a pastry and latte from Persephone, a warm breakfast sandwich at Picnic, or a cup of Snake River Roasting coffee before heading to the mountain.
Lunch & Dinner
From casual meals with friends to celebratory dinners, a few local favorites include:
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Snake River Grill — a long-time Jackson favorite.
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FIGS — Mediterranean dishes tucked inside Hotel Jackson.
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Coe Tavern — creative, seasonal plates inspired by mountain cuisine.
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Hand Fire Pizza — a relaxed, family-friendly option inside a historic theater.
Après-Ski
Après in Jackson can be as lively or as mellow as you want it to be.
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The Mangy Moose in Teton Village is iconic — loud, fun, and full of ski-day stories.
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The Handle Bar offers slope-side views and an elevated feel.
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Stagecoach Bar in Wilson is a beloved local hangout, especially on Sunday evenings.
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Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, right by Town Square, is a must-visit for live music and a true Western setting (yes, you really do sit on saddles at the bar).
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Holiday & Winter Events
The holiday season brings a special kind of energy to the valley.
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Torchlight parades take place on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, lighting up the slopes at both JHMR and Snow King.
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WinterFest offers family-friendly events throughout the village.
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Local art walks, winter markets, and community gatherings fill the calendar all season long.
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Check out Jackson Hole Traveler for the most current season events.
Why People Stay for More Than a Vacation
Many people come to Jackson Hole for skiing — but it’s the lifestyle that makes them want to stay. Winter here is about more than powder days. It’s the quiet mornings when the mountains glow pink, the wildlife moving across snowy fields, the warmth of gathering with friends after a storm, and the deep connection people feel to this valley.
If winter has you imagining what life here could look like beyond a getaway, our team at Mountain Standard Realty is here to help you find a home base for every season. Connect with an agent today.
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