Things might get quiet in the Tetons during late fall, but the sleepy feeling doesn’t last long. Every year, as winter comes, both locals and visitors feel a strong energy and excitement. They sense the season getting closer.
You will see it on the roads and trails as adventurers begin their training. You will hear it in coffee shops and grocery stores. Friends and strangers will stop to talk about the weekend's forecast, whispering about the snow that is coming.
At the end of October, something starts to change in the air. The chill that came to the valley earlier settles in. The last colors fall from the trees in the forests.
This is Wyoming, so snow has been covering the peaks and passes since August. However, it is usually in November when the first big storm hits the valley floor. That is when the snow stays for the season. The thick, deep snow cloaks the landscape world in white until late into the spring.
Local Kelly Halpin is an outdoor adventurer and illustrator who grew up next to Grand Teton National Park; she’s climbed, hiked, and snowboarded the Teton range for most of her life. She describes how locals often welcome the year’s first snow with an annual ritual:
“I personally like to celebrate with a thermos full of hot chocolate in the backcountry. Some of my friends like to do a shot of whiskey to open the season. I'm sure everyone in Jackson has their own little way…”
Many people hope that the next season will have great conditions. Last season saw some of the highest snowfall ever at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Buckets of fluffy powder arrived unseasonably early and settled in for a long winter of prime mountain sport. As we wait for this year’s first big snowfall, we’ve gathered the best local traditions for welcoming winter to the valley.
Gearing Up
Long before dawn on October 20th, you’ll see crowds gather on Snow King Avenue, as locals line up to buy, sell, and swap last year’s gear at the annual Ski Swap.
The fundraiser hosted by the Jackson Hole Ski and Snowboard Club is a long-time annual tradition.
Locals and vendors rush to get in early. They want the best selection of alpine, nordic, freeski, and snowboarding gear and clothing. It’s a can’t miss event for any visiting winter sports enthusiasts.
Looking Skyward
The night sky always puts on show in the valley, due to the minimal light pollution and high altitude. (Jackson boasts some of the darkest skies in the country.) But with colder temperatures come even clearer views as the air thins and the clouds disappear.
On the evening of November 9th, the Wyoming Stargazing non-profit hosts a free chance to see the constellations even closer, from the lawn next to the Center for the Arts in downtown Jackson.
With a large Dobsonian telescope and astronomy teachers to help you, you will explore the stars. You’ll see planets and galaxies in amazing detail. You can almost guarantee spotting shooting stars; it’s a rare night in the Tetons when you don’t see at least one.
Light in the Darkness
Winter gets officially welcomed to the valley with the beloved annual town square lighting. The hundred year old park’s iconic elk antler arches are draped with thousands of lights as night falls this November 23.
Crowds bundled up warmly gather to enjoy music and hot drinks. They count down to the moment when the square lights up.
This turns the area into a winter wonderland. It brings a warm glow to Jackson’s downtown all season long. The festive evening ends with carollers, cookies, and the arrival of Santa and his team of sled dogs!
Opening Day
Skiers are excited for November 24. That day, the slopes will officially open. The famous red trams will start moving up the mountain from Teton Village again. Grand Targhee and Snow King open a bit earlier and later, but the first day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort feels the most special.
When the big day finally dawns, it can feel like the entire town is on holiday as everyone rushes to the slopes to make those first precious tracks. It’s an inclusive and welcoming occasion, as Halpin relates:
“I love seeing all my friends at the resort on the opening day or on Teton Pass after the first big snow. Everyone is happy and giving high fives and hugs. It's awesome to have something like a season opening that brings everyone together.”
This celebratory energy will not fade away when the sun sets on opening day. From the first snow to the season’s last, the valley will stay abuzz with adventure and packed with those who seek it.
Jackson Hole in winter is a great place for outdoor sports lovers. It has vast mountains and backcountry. The area has a small-town feel and stunning natural beauty. You can see protected wilderness for miles.