I Hate Skiing—Here’s How I Spent a Winter Weekend in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

If you’re anything like me, then you too enjoy the après part of skiing more than the actual skiing itself. And even though you might like the chill of cold air and the feeling of fresh snow beneath your boots, you may also feel a bit awkward planning winter vacations to destinations known for their slopes. Or at least, that’s exactly how I felt before I left for Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Everyone I knew only had great things to say about this not-so-small-anymore small town. Jackson Hole is considered a gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park (Yellowstone alone welcomed over 4.7 million visitors in 2024), but it’s perhaps best known for fluffy powder and for runs like Corbet’s Couloir, one of the most famous and challenging chutes in North America. Let’s just say adrenaline rushes are not my thing—but I still love winter weather, and I was excited to see how I could fill my days.

Here’s how to spend a winter weekend in Jackson Hole if you don’t ski.

Explore the National Parks

You’ll get your first peek of the Tetons and the majestic landscape that surrounds Jackson Hole when your plane lands. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is the only commercial airport located within a national park (it was established in 1946 before Grand Tetons National Park expanded), and you’ll get quite an introduction to the valley as you fly over its peaks and deplane. Plus, you can grab a complimentary mimosa from a stand at the airport, courtesy of the town’s Chamber of Commerce.

Once I checked into the historic Wort Hotel, I headed down to meet my EcoTour Adventures guide to end my day as I started it: in Grand Teton National Park. After putting on a pair of binoculars and packing into a van with a removable roof, our driver showed us around the park so we could spot some wildlife. As I munched on local snacks and sipped hot cocoa, we saw bald eagles, moose, elk, and bison—some even came right up to the van. If we wanted a closer look, our guide had a high-powered scope on- and that we were free to borrow. As a bonus, he used his tracking skills and knowledge of the park to help us get a glimpse of elusive (and endangered) gray wolves.

Find Other Ways to Play in the Snow

Okay, so maybe I’m not going to send it down Corbet’s Couloir—but I do still have a bit of an adventurous streak.

Looking to get a little outside of my comfort zone, I booked a Women’s Snowmobile Clinic with Uncharted Society, an outfitter that specializes in guided power sports experiences and rentals. I loved that it was for both beginners and intermediate snowmobilers—it was my first time getting on one. It was freeing to laugh and learn the ropes with other women.

“I feel honored to get more women on the snow and share my passion for riding with them through [these] clinics,” said Lisa Granden, our guide for the day. “These clinics strengthen the community of women snowmobilers by providing a supportive space for them to connect, learn, and get out of their comfort zones, while providing the freedom to explore new terrain.”

I had started the day anxious about my nonexistent skills and the idea of being on such an intimidating machine. But, I ended my day proud of what I was able to accomplish (and also a bit exhausted). I never thought I’d be zipping through trees and down hillsides, sometimes standing entirely on one side of the sled to course correct—but I did. I never felt more capable, thanks to Granden and the other women in my group cheering me on.

Have a Wellness Day

After spending all day standing on a snowmobile, I was naturally very sore. And what’s a better way to rejuvenate than with a spa day? A massage sounded like music to my ears.

So, I headed to The Grandview Spa at Snow King Mountain Resort, which, at 9,000 square feet, is one of the largest spas in Jackson Hole. With treatment rooms, a sauna, an outdoor hot tub with mountain views (my favorite), and Wyoming’s only halotherapy salt lounge, I was in for a day of relaxation. After a Grand View Signature Massage, some time in the salt lounge, and a dip in the outdoor hot tub, I felt properly unwound and ready to take on more adventure. I then took the scenic gondola up the mountain for some stargazing at Snow King Observatory & Planetarium. I came specifically to see the Planewave telescope—I was told it even made Bill Nye (of “Science Guy” fame) let out an, “Oh wow!

Eat and Drink Your Way Around Jackson Hole

Here’s a little secret: Jackson Hole has a fantastic food and drink scene. I love that even though Jackson Hole is a “small” town, it has an incredible diversity of dining hot spots frequented by visitors and locals alike.

You’ll need to stop by the famous-for-a-reason Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, located in the middle of the town square. Start with a hearty dinner at the downstairs steakhouse before heading up to grab a saddle seat at the bar. Then, hop on the dance floor with a cowboy or two.

Local favorite Persephone Bakery is a must-try as well. I would often change my morning walking routes to make sure I could stop by for some fresh bread and pastries. Other favorites of mine included Coe Tavern, Code Red Tacos, Cowboy Coffee, and Bin22, a tapas bar tucked away behind a wine store.