Grand Targhee

​Grand Targhee fans claim to ski on the sunny side of the Tetons, where the lift lines are short and the powder is plentiful. Located about an hour away from downtown Jackson with a weather dependent drive, this resort sees much less skier traffic than its larger neighbor, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Skiing at Grand Targhee can be the perfect day escape from Jackson Hole’s steeps and holiday crowds. Anticipate terrain with wide open faces, excellent groomers, and sparse trees.

Because of the mountain’s orientation, huge storms from the West Coast pummel the slopes with powder and give the resort its nickname “Grand Foggy.” The powder can be so deep some days the resort should have a required height to load the lifts so no child gets left behind on the mountain. If it’s not snowing, the flawless corduroy and bluebird vistas towards the backside of the Grand Teton are unforgettable. This is a family mountain and the majority of the 1,500 skiable acres are friendly to all ability levels.

Don’t expect to see Kjus jackets in the lift lines or fur boots in the lodges, the locals here pride themselves on being down to earth. All of the on mountain dining is located at the base of the resort, just steps away from your ride to the top, Dreamcatcher Lift. The Targhee Trading Post provides snacks, hand warmers, and other quick necessities. The Branding Iron offers chic dining options, while Trap Bar has more basic fare and a mild après ski scene.

If you’re staying around Grand Targhee, you’ll have to go to Driggs, ID and Victor, ID for your after ski thrills. The towns are basic and have limited shopping so don’t forget any essentials at home. Most people make Grand Targhee a day trip from Jackson Hole, so before you head back over Teton Pass be sure to stop in Victor, ID for dinner. Locals have been raving about the unique dining experience at Scratch, a relatively new restaurant that makes all of its cuisine from scratch as you order it. If you’re in need of pizza and local brews, the Wildlife Brewery has the best of both in the entire area. Although the nightlife around Grand Targhee is limited, the Knotty Pine is a hotspot for live music in the winter.