Town Ski Area Series: Snow King Mountain Resort

The Town Ski Area Series showcases small ski areas in Wyoming and Montana that offer as much as value as great skiing. (Leo Wolfson)

When you talk Wyoming skiing and snowboarding, no conversation can take place without mentioning the legendary Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. But just down the road, holding peaceful watch over the town of Jackson is Snow King Mountain Resort, a hidden gem with a wide variety of terrain to explore.

Snow King is the ultimate “Town Hill,” even referred to as such by many Jackson locals. Dating back to 1939, the mountain celebrated its 80th season this year. Snow King is self-owned and operated, servicing three lifts, more than 1,500 feet of vertical and 32 runs over 400 acres.

The terrain varies from drainage bowls to steep tree chutes, all overlooking the town of Jackson and Grand Tetons. A short hike out of bounds will likely bring you to untouched powder along with some rather rowdy terrain to boot. If partaking in any of this sidecountry come prepared with a partner, beacon and probe as the region is notorious for its avalanche danger.

For those a little less wild, the mountain also boasts many groomed and beginner trails. The short and steep nature of the hill makes it a perfect host for many high school and college alpine races throughout the year, such as the USCSA Championships this March.

Located in a high-adventure, active community that is Jackson, it’s no surprise the mountain hosts a strong touring community, who hike the hill and earn their turns on the mountain, many as a way to start their day. To celebrate their 80th season, Snow King partnered with outerwear company Stio to reward those who earn their turns, hiking up and skiing down the mountain sans chair lift, in the “uphill challenge.” Josh Woodbury led the pack with 171,055 feet climbed over the season.

One other great feature about Snow King is that the mountain offers night skiing, the only ski area in Wyoming to do so and one of the few in the West.

If you put Snow King in any other location it would likely be considered the best mountain of that entire region, but due to its location, is dwarfed by Jackson Hole when it comes to its size and crowds. If you don’t mind leg-burning steeps, legendary trees and next to no lift lines, consider adding Snow King to your next downhill adventure.