Get into the Backcountry

Jackson Hole is internationally renowned for its backcountry skiing and snowboarding. With access available from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Pass and Grand Teton National Park, getting into the backcountry is easier than ever. But be warned: It’s also easier than ever to find yourself in trouble. Teton County Search and Rescue volunteers and Grand Teton park rangers are dispatched several times a year to extract the unaware or unprepared from the Teton backcountry. Injuries and fatalities caused by avalanches and falls off of cliffs also occur far too frequently, even with the most experienced skiers and snowboarders.

HIGH MOUNTAIN HELI-SKIING

UNTRACKED, UNTOUCHED, UNBELIEVABLE! Since 1974, High Mountain Heli-Skiing has been offering our guests the ultimate deep-powder heli-skiing experience in Jackson Hole. Vast open bowls, steep chutes, enchanted forests and glades can all be yours to explore. Let the guides with 50 years of experience show you the adventure.

heliskijackson.com | 307-733-3274

All backcountry users, regardless of their chosen mode of travel—alpine or Nordic skis, snowboard, snowshoes or ice axe and crampons (for ice climbers)— need to be prepared for and educated about every possible condition and scenario. An avalanche course is highly recommended. Start at a local shop like Skinny Skis, Teton Mountaineering or Wilson Backcountry Sports to find out what information and gear is required for a successful backcountry experience. Or contact a local guide company, such as Exum Mountain Guides or Jackson Hole Mountain Guides, about available courses and trips.

Whether you head into the backcountry with or without a guide, always check the avalanche conditions first at jhavalanche.org.

Take to the Ice

Free Outdoor Rinks

Winter Wonderland on the Town Square Free hot chocolate and skate rentals ($15) are available in the Stage Stop building from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday and noon to 9 p.m. on weekends.

Powderhorn Park Rink Family skate time: noon to 8:30 p.m. daily

Rodeo Grounds Rink Family skate time: 2 to 4 p.m. daily

Owen Bircher Park Rink Family skate time: noon to 2 p.m. daily

Teton Village Ice Rink at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Open daily from 3 to 9 p.m. Skate rentals ($15) are available in the warming hut next to the rink.

INDOOR SKATING AT SNOW KING SPORTS & EVENTS CENTER

Public ice skating Monday to Friday, noon to 2 p.m. Adults: $8; kids: $6; rentals: $5. Jackson Hole Moose Hockey: 30-game home schedule at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights throughout the winter. Adults: $10; kids: $5 snowkingsec.com | 307-201-1633