Nestled in the heart of the stunning Teton Range, Snow King Mountain Resort stands as one of Wyoming’s most beloved and accessible winter destinations. Whether you are an avid skier, a snowboarder, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat in the snow-covered wilderness, Snow King offers something for everyone. From its rich history to its exhilarating outdoor activities, the resort continues to be a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at Snow King Mountain Resort, exploring its history, the variety of activities available, the resort’s development, and what makes it stand out as a premier winter resort.
The Rich History of Snow King Mountain Resort
Snow King Mountain Resort, often referred to as “The King,” has a long history that dates back to the early 1930s. The resort’s history begins with the establishment of the first ski area in Jackson, Wyoming. Skiing in the Jackson Hole area began in 1939 when the first lift was built, long before Jackson Hole Ski Resort became the world-renowned destination it is today. The lift at Snow King was the first in the area, offering a chance for locals and visitors alike to enjoy skiing in the mountains.
The mountain itself, which rises to an elevation of 7,808 feet, has always been an important part of the region’s heritage. In its early years, Snow King was known for its steep slopes and challenging terrain. It quickly became a favorite for local skiers, and over time, it developed into the modern resort it is today.
Over the decades, Snow King has undergone several upgrades and expansions. The resort has remained a constant presence in the Jackson Hole area, offering a variety of activities and experiences for locals and visitors. From its early days as a small ski hill to its current status as one of the premier ski resorts in Wyoming, Snow King’s evolution reflects both the growth of the surrounding area and the continuing popularity of outdoor recreation.
Snow King’s Skiing and Snowboarding Experience
Today, Snow King Mountain Resort is one of the top ski and snowboard destinations in Wyoming, providing a high-quality experience for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort offers 1,571 vertical feet of skiable terrain and a variety of runs that cater to beginners, intermediate skiers, and experts alike. The resort’s unique location, just a short distance from the town of Jackson, makes it a convenient and accessible spot for both locals and tourists to hit the slopes.
Ski Trails and Terrain
Snow King Mountain features 32 trails and over 400 acres of skiable terrain. The terrain is divided into several categories to accommodate skiers and snowboarders of varying abilities. For beginners, the resort has several gentle green runs, including the popular “Snow King” run that offers a smooth and easy descent for those just starting. Intermediate skiers will enjoy the blue runs that provide more of a challenge, with longer and steeper slopes to test their skills.
For advanced skiers and snowboarders, Snow King offers steep, challenging black diamond runs, including the “Kaiser” and “Lazy J” runs, both of which are known for their steepness and technical difficulty. There is also an advanced terrain park that allows more experienced riders to test their freestyle skills.
The resort also boasts the longest lift-served run in the region, “The Summit,” which offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range and the town of Jackson. From this summit, visitors can access a range of other trails and enjoy some of the most thrilling downhill experiences in the area.
Terrain Parks and Snowboard Features
Snow King Mountain Resort is a favorite among snowboarders due to its impressive terrain parks and freestyle features. The resort features a variety of jumps, rails, and boxes that cater to riders of different skill levels. The terrain park is regularly updated with new features and obstacles, making it an exciting place for those looking to hone their freestyle skills or simply enjoy a fun day on the mountain.
Night Skiing and Snowboarding
One unique aspect of Snow King Mountain Resort is its ability to offer night skiing and snowboarding. Unlike many larger resorts, Snow King offers evening ski sessions, allowing skiers and snowboarders to extend their time on the mountain. Under the glow of floodlights, visitors can enjoy a completely different experience than what they encounter during the day. The resort typically opens its slopes for night skiing on select days, giving those staying in the area extra time to enjoy the snow after the sun sets.
Snow Conditions
Snow King is known for its reliable snow conditions, which are essential for a successful winter sports experience. The resort is equipped with modern snowmaking technology to ensure that its slopes are always covered in a fresh layer of snow, even during warmer periods of the season. This allows Snow King to maintain top-quality conditions throughout the winter months, ensuring an excellent experience for all visitors.
Other Winter Activities
Although Snow King is best known for its skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers many other exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone at Snow King Mountain Resort.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, Snow King offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness. These trails offer an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Teton Range at a slower pace, providing stunning views of the mountains and the town of Jackson below.
Snow King Mountain Coaster
The Snow King Mountain Coaster is one of the resort’s most unique features. This thrilling ride allows visitors to race down the mountain on a sled-like vehicle while taking in spectacular views of the valley below. The coaster runs year-round, making it a popular activity for both winter and summer visitors.
Snowmobiling and Dog Sledding
Snowmobiling is another exciting way to explore the winter wonderland of Jackson Hole. Several operators in the area offer snowmobile tours that take you deep into the backcountry, offering views of the pristine snow-covered landscape. For those looking for a more traditional experience, dog sledding tours are also available, providing a memorable way to experience the snowy wilderness.
Ice Skating and Sledding
For families with young children or those simply looking for a more laid-back experience, ice skating and sledding are available on-site. The resort features a small ice skating rink that is perfect for those looking to glide across the ice. Nearby, there are also areas designated for sledding, where visitors can enjoy a fun, family-friendly experience in the snow.
The Resort’s Accommodations
Snow King Mountain Resort offers a variety of accommodations to suit the needs of different visitors. Whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel experience or a more budget-friendly option, the resort has something for you.
Snow King Resort Hotel
For those seeking a more upscale stay, the Snow King Resort Hotel is a great option. Located at the base of the mountain, this full-service hotel provides convenient access to the slopes and all the resort’s amenities. The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, a heated outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can relax after a long day of skiing or snowboarding in the hotel’s cozy lounge or enjoy a meal at the resort’s fine dining restaurant.
Condominiums and Vacation Rentals
For those who prefer a more home-like atmosphere, Snow King also offers condominium rentals. These spacious accommodations are ideal for families or groups, providing multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and plenty of space to relax after a day on the slopes. The condos are located just minutes from the resort’s lifts, making it easy for guests to access all the winter activities.
Budget-Friendly Options
For visitors who are looking to enjoy all the mountain’s attractions without breaking the bank, Snow King offers more affordable lodging options in the nearby town of Jackson. Jackson boasts a wide range of hotels, motels, and lodges that provide easy access to the resort and the many attractions in the area.
Dining and Après-Ski Activities
After a full day on the slopes, Snow King Mountain Resort offers several dining options for visitors to enjoy. The resort’s restaurants serve everything from casual meals to fine dining, with menus featuring hearty comfort food, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional après-ski fare.
For those looking to unwind, Snow King also offers a vibrant après-ski scene. The resort’s bar and lounge areas provide a cozy place to relax with a drink and socialize with other guests. The nearby town of Jackson is home to a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants to explore once the day’s activities have come to a close.
A Year-Round Destination
While Snow King Mountain Resort is primarily known for its winter sports, the resort is a year-round destination that offers plenty of activities during the warmer months as well. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing in the Teton Range. The mountain’s trails are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of difficulty levels to suit hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
Additionally, the resort is located just a short distance from the Grand Teton National Park, one of the most stunning and scenic parks in the United States. Visitors can easily access the park for a day trip or longer, taking in its breathtaking views and unique wildlife.
Why Snow King Mountain Resort is Special
Snow King Mountain Resort offers something unique that sets it apart from many other ski resorts in the region. Its proximity to the town of Jackson makes it incredibly convenient for visitors, with just a short drive to the mountain from the town center. The resort provides a perfect balance of accessibility, variety, and natural beauty.
The mountain’s compact size and easy access make it an ideal choice for both beginners and more advanced skiers who want a relaxed and intimate ski experience. Plus, with the combination of outdoor activities, après-ski options, and the breathtaking scenery of the Teton Range, Snow King Mountain Resort has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Whether you are planning to visit for a weekend getaway or a week-long ski adventure, Snow King Mountain Resort in Jackson, Wyoming, offers an exceptional experience. From its rich history to its diverse array of activities, accommodations, and dining options, there is no shortage of things to do and see at Snow King. The resort’s close proximity to the town of Jackson, combined with its excellent snow conditions and range of outdoor experiences, makes it an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy the winter wonderland of Wyoming. Whether you are hitting the slopes, enjoying the mountain coaster, or simply relaxing with a warm drink in hand, Snow King Mountain Resort is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure.