Where to Cross Country Ski in Jackson Hole

While Jackson Hole is generally associated with deep powder runs and steep terrain, cross country or Nordic skiing is another popular winter activity and alternative to downhill skiing. Cross country skiing provides a low impact workout and access to the pristine winter ecology of Jackson Hole.

There’s an extensive trail system within Teton County and the upkeep that these trails receive is quite impressive. Most are groomed twice a week. To enhance your experience, try a half-day or full-day excursion with an experienced guide. Guided tours are available for any skill level; beginners are welcome! This is a wonderful way to discover new trails while learning about the local environment from a professional naturalist.

This winter, spend a peaceful day sailing over alpine meadows, watching wildlife, and enjoying the snowy solitude. Below are a few of our favorite spots for enjoying cross country skiing.

3 Places for Cross Country Skiing

1. Game Creek, popular with mountain bikers in the summer months, has 3.3 miles of groomed trail south of Jackson. Besides the fantastic views and wildlife sightings Game Creek has to offer, on these uncrowded trails, you will rarely have to step out of the tracks for an oncoming skier. Game Creek is freshly groomed on Tuesday and Thursday for your Nordic pleasure.

2. Grand Teton National Park’s Nordic trail system offers gorgeous Teton views in any direction. You can ski the flats on the park road, take your skis off trail to Taggert Lake, or enjoy moderate terrain on the Moose-Wilson Road. The views and wildlife in the park are unparalleled, so grab a leash and your four-legged best friend can come too.

3. If you’re looking for more of a challenge to earn some serious bragging rights at the bar, then you should head over to East Jackson and jump on the Cache Creek trail system. The groomed 4.6 mile trail has a total gain/loss of 850 feet. Burn some calories on the hike up and enjoy the well deserved cruise down to the parking lot. A more intermediate to advanced trail by Cache is the Hagen Trail. You can ski both for a total of 11.6 miles roundtrip.

For more great ideas on winter activities for non-skiers, check out this blog post.