The 6 Best Ski Resorts in Wyoming

Wyoming’s premier ski resort, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort features 2,500 skiable acres and 133 trails, not to mention four terrain parks and plenty of backcountry acreage. This sprawling ski area is perfectly suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, with nearly 40 percent of trails designed for intermediate, and almost all the rest marked black diamond. Although less than 5 percent of Jackson Hole’s trails cater to beginners, the resort does have a ski school and private ski instruction. The resort and the neighboring town ofJacksonalso feature a thriving après-ski scene.

Thanks to its location on the west side of the Tetons, Grand Targhee Resort often sees ample snowfall created when Pacific-born storms reach the mountain peaks. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a family ski destination in Wyoming. Ten percent of marked trails were designed with beginners in mind, while a whopping 70 percent of runs cater to intermediate skiers. Grand Targhee also offers child care and learning programs for youngsters of all ages, not to mention the Kid’s Adventure Zone, terrain designed to help new skiers and boarders improve their moves.

While the out-of-towners flock to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, locals make their way to Snow King. The “Town Hill”, as it’s often referred to by those in the know, has earned a reputation as one of the best small resorts in the country. Snow King caters to powder hounds who like a challenge, with nearly 60 percent of terrain designated black diamond. But those who are newer to the slopes will find plenty of well-groomed, gentle trails on which they can find their snow legs. And should you need a break from your skis, Snow King also offers snow tubing, among a number of other winter activities.

The White Pine Ski Area, a locally owned ski resort just 10 miles from the town of Pinedale, rewards those who make the trek to central Wyoming with spectacular views. From the summit of the resort’s Fortification Mountain, which sits at 9,500 feet, skiers and boarders can look out over Bridger Teton National Forest, the Continental Divide Wind River Mountains and Fremont Lake. While there are only 25 runs, the longest of which spans a mere half mile, White Pine Ski Area also features a terrain park and a sizable Nordic Ski area. Additionally, the resort offers ski instruction, and a small après-ski scene.

Located in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest in southern Wyoming, not far from the Colorado border, Snowy Range witnesses an average of 245 inches of snow per year across its 250 skiable acres. Albeit somewhat small, Snowy Range has plenty to offer. Its terrain (which includes 33 marked trails) appeals to all skill levels, with the longest trail measuring nearly two miles. The resort also features two terrain parks for snowboarders to perfect their tricks. And for those new to the slopes, Snowy Range provides private and group lessons to help everyone make the most of their visit.