Listen up, powder hounds – I'm about to spill the beans on Jackson Hole's most coveted snow sanctuaries. But first, a confession: I've face-planted in more Wyoming powder than I care to admit. The good news? Each of these spectacular wipeouts happened in some of the most breathtaking terrain North America has to offer.
Warning: Reading this article may cause severe powder fever and an irresistible urge to call in "sick" to work.
Why These Spots Are Special
What makes Jackson Hole truly exceptional isn’t just the average 459 inches of annual snowfall or the 4,139 feet of vertical drop – it’s the expansive 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, featuring a unique combination of accessible backcountry terrain, world-class resort runs, and the kind of powder that makes you forget about your morning meetings back home.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Iconic for a Reason
Corbet's Couloir: The Legend
This isn’t just another black diamond run – it’s the run that separates the dreamers from the doers. Local's tip: before peeking over the edge of Corbet's Couloir, many skiers stop at Corbet's Cabin to enjoy its popular waffles (peanut butter and smoked bacon is our favorite...yes, really).
As one of the most photographed ski runs in North America, and home to the King and Queen’s Ski Competition, Corbet’s offers an exclusive experience that only about 2% of resort visitors attempt. Once you’ve conquered that heart-racing initial drop, you’ll find yourself floating through powder that feels like it was groomed by angels.
Rendezvous Bowl: The Perfect Start
Begin your day at the top of the tram at 10,450 feet, surrounded by the majestic Teton peaks. On a fresh powder morning, Rendezvous Bowl transforms into your private playground. Ready for a splurge? Hire a private ski guide through the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and get first tracks – there’s nothing like having this bowl to yourself as the sun rises over the mountain.
Tower Three Chute: The Hidden Gem
This local secret requires perfect timing and a bit of strategy. Hire a private guide or buy a local a beer. Either can help you nail the conditions – typically best during mid-morning when the light reveals the chute's natural beauty. The narrow entrance opens into an expansive powder field that's often overlooked by the crowds heading to more famous runs.
Beyond the Resort: Teton Pass Adventures
Glory Bowl: The Backcountry Classic
This 1,650-foot bootpack leads to some of the most pristine backcountry terrain in North America. With 500+ inches of annual snowfall, Glory Bowl offers the kind of once in a lifetime powder experience that makes the hike work it. Consider going with a local guide on your first trip and investing in avalanche safety training is essential. Find backcountry ski guides here.
Rock Springs Bowl: The Guided Adventure
Just beyond the resort boundaries lies one of Jackson's most rewarding backcountry experiences. Accessible through JHMR's private guide service, Rock Springs Bowl offers a blend of adventure without the hike. Your expert guide will lead you through powder fields while sharing stories of the area's rich skiing heritage. The sweeping views of the Tetons provide the perfect backdrop for those must-have social media moments.
The Local's Loop: Snow King & Grand Targhee
Snow King: The Local’s Favorite
Known affectionately as the “Town Hill,” Snow King holds a special place in Jackson’s heart – and for good reason. This historic mountain, established in 1939, sits right in downtown Jackson, offering an exceptional ski experience just steps from the town’s finest hotels and restaurants. Snow King Mountain Resort also offers a variety of winter things to do for the entire family including Snow Tubing and the Cowboy Coaster.
Exhibition Run: Serious Steeps
Exhibition Run stands out as Snow King's crown jewel. With some of North America's steepest in-bounds pitches (up to 32 degrees), this run delivers an exhilarating experience that rivals anything you'll find out west.
Jackson Hole’s Only Night Skiing
As the sun sets, Snow King transforms into a winter playground with its exceptional night skiing operation. From 4-7pm daily, over 100 acres of expertly lit terrain invites you to carve turns while overlooking the twinkling lights of downtown Jackson.
Grand Targhee: Powder Galore
Just an hour’s drive from Jackson through Teton Valley, Grand Targhee Resort is your secret weapon for finding untouched powder stashes. Known for its staggering 500+ inches of annual snowfall – among the highest in North America – Targhee offers an altogether different experience from JHMR. The resort’s western location on the Tetons’ opposite side acts as a natural snow fence, catching storms that dump pristine powder across its 2,602 acres of terrain.
Families love Targhee for its laid-back vibe, uncrowded slopes, and excellent ski school programs, making it perfect for mixed-ability groups or powder-hunting parents who want their kids in good hands.
- Lost Groomer: Where 500+ inches of annual snowfall creates a powder paradise
- North Woods: Nature’s terrain park, perfect for those seeking solitude
- The Nasty Gash: An expert-only experience that earns you serious bragging rights
Jackson Hole Heli-skiing
Experience the Thrill
For those seeking the ultimate skiing adventure, heli-skiing in Jackson Hole is an experience like no other. Explore untouched powder fields and advanced terrain that few ever see.
High Mountain Heli-Skiing, provides exceptional heli-skiing experiences. With guided tours and equipment rentals, they ensure you have everything you need for an unforgettable day without the crowds.
Heli-skiing in Jackson Hole is not just about skiing; it’s about the adventure, the breathtaking views, and the stories you’ll tell for years to come. If you’re an advanced skier looking for the next big thrill, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Essential Jackson Hole Skiing Planning Tips
When to Visit
Jackson Hole's legendary powder season hits its stride from January through March, when Pacific storm systems roll through the Tetons dropping an average of 150 inches of snow each month. January brings consistent cold temperatures that keep snow light and fluffy, while February often sees the biggest storm cycles of the season. March offers a perfect combination of powder days and bluebird skies, with occasional storms dropping surprise foot-plus accumulations on spring breakers.
Check out our guide to getting to Jackson this winter for detailed information about flights, ground transportation, and road conditions during peak powder season.
Safety First
For Jackson Hole backcountry adventures, it’s essential to have a full understanding of avalanche safety before you go. We recommend working with Teton Backcountry Guides who provide top-tier equipment and expertise. They'll ensure your safety while leading you to the best untouched powder stashes.
Ready to Experience Jackson Hole's Powder Paradise?
Click below to connect with our luxury travel concierge team. They'll create a customized itinerary that combines these powder stashes with five-star accommodations, private guides, and exclusive mountain experiences.
Note: All snowfall statistics and terrain data are based on historical averages from resort records and the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center. Conditions vary by season and should be verified before travel.
P.S. Thanks for reading through, here's where the goods are. The local's favorite runs:
- Alta Chutes (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Steep, deep powder
- Spacewalk (Teton Pass) - Technical cliff drops
- Moran Face (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Challenging expert line
- Powder Reserve (Grand Targhee Resort) - Untouched tree skiing
- Tower Three (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Sustained steep pitch
- The Hobacks (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Powder for days
- Paint Brush (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Long cruising run
- S&S Couloir (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Experts-only terrain
- Thunder Woods (Jackson Hole Mountain Resort) - Protected powder stash
- Mary's Back (Grand Targhee Resort) - Fresh tracks almost guaranteed
