Everything You Need to Know About Winter at Snow King Mountain
The Local Hill
Snow King Mountain, Jackson’s hometown ski hill, rises just beyond the edge of downtown. For guests at The Cloudveil, the whole winter playground is just steps from our doorstep. It’s the relaxed, in-town mountain, perfect for morning turns, nighttime runs and family fun in the heart of Jackson.
This year, the winter season opens on December 4th. Whether you’re planning a ski trip or a family holiday, here’s what to know before you go.
The Heart of Downtown Jackson
Skip the drive and traffic – Snow King is about three blocks from Jackson Town Square, so you can get from your hotel room to the lifts in record time. You can be on the snow in the morning and settled in at The Bistro or fireside by evening.
The mountain also has gorgeous vistas of Jackson and the Teton Range, so even a casual afternoon here comes with a stunning backdrop.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Snow King may look steep from town, but the terrain is more varied than it appears. It covers more than 500 skiable acres, with three lifts, three Magic Carpets, and 41 named runs. Beginners get a gentle zone at the summit, and intermediates will find plenty to enjoy on the backside. Confident skiers can take on the steeper runs.
Night Skiing is the standout, and it’s the only option in Jackson Hole. After a day of exploring, spend a couple of hours carving under the lights.
Traveling without gear? Black Tie Ski Rentals brings the gear to you. Guests can arrange delivery and a personalized fitting right at The Cloudveil or visit Black Tie’s downtown Jackson storefront. Their team offers a wide selection of premium skis and snowboards, with equipment recommendations tailored to your ability level and current snow conditions. With custom fittings and the option to have everything ready before you head out, you can spend less time sorting out equipment and more time enjoying the mountain.
Family Fun
King Tubes
If you’d rather slide than ski, King Tubes is the perfect winter adventure. The tube park has three groomed lanes and a lift that carries you back uphill, so you can do it all over again.
Tickets include the tube rental, so all you need is warm layers. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall, and each participant gets their own tube. It’s a great fit for families, though adults tend to enjoy it as much as the kids.
The Cowboy Coaster
Snow King’s mountain coaster runs all year long. A lift carries you 456 feet up the mountain, then you ride back down through nearly a mile of dips, curves, and banked turns. A hand brake lets you control your own speed, which tops out at 25 mph. It’s an adrenaline rush worth saving time for.
The Scenic Gondola
For a quieter way to take in the valley, ride the gondola to the summit. The five-minute trip climbs nearly 1,600 feet, and at the top of a 360-degree view stretches across the Tetons, the National Elk Refuge, and the town of Jackson. On a clear day, you may even spot Yellowstone in the distance. On a non-ski day, it’s a lovely outing on its own. Ride up, then warm up with a hot drink at the Panorama House.
Dine at Aurora Summit Restaurant
After a day on the slopes, head to Aurora, Snow King’s newest – and most scenic – restaurant. The menu offers a refined take on the Mountain West, built around seasonal ingredients, and pairs well with a craft cocktail or a glass of wine from the curated list.
Aurora is reached by the scenic gondola, so dinner begins with stunning views. Your reservation includes gondola access, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Snow King makes it easy to say yes to the mountain. Whether you’re planning a family day, squeezing in a last-minute ski, or riding the gondola for sweeping views of the valley, it’s the leisure of a snow day without all of the planning.
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