Congratulations on planning a trip to Jackson Hole!
We hope to help you make your vacation at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) go as smoothly as possible. Here is some info to help you get oriented upon arrival.
What to pack?
If you plan on skiing or snowboarding, we suggest that you pack lots of layers, since the temperatures at Jackson Hole can vary greatly. It is not uncommon for us to get inversions, where the temperature is actually warmer on top of the mountain than down in the Valley. We suggest bringing your ski or snowboard boots and one day’s worth of outdoor clothes carry-on, so if your bags don’t arrive with you, you can still hit the slopes right away. As far as evening wear, the dress is very casual out here in the “wild west,” even blue jeans are acceptable at the finest restaurants. We suggest packing a pair of snow boots, and leaving the heels at home. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife sightings, and bathing suits for hot tub dips.
‘Focus on layering’
Brought to you by Jackson Hole Sports in the Bridger Center, Teton Village. All the products mentioned here are available in JH Sports.
1. Starting with the Base Layer.
Socks: no longer use cotton, 3 pairs of socks or big thick socks.
These days people are choosing wool, particularly Smartwool:
• Need one thin sock, helps create more circulation
• Soft Merino wool, guaranteed not to itch
• Helps regulate body temp and wetness
Long underwear –tops and bottoms
• Choose from light-weight to a mid weight fabric.
• Marmot: quick-drying base layer that breathes while it insulates to maintain ideal next-to-skin climate’
• Smartwool: Comfortable next to the skin, efficient moisture-management system, soft SmartWool fibers keep you cool or warm.
2. Mid layer – a light fleece
3. Top layer/outerwear - Softshell jacket
• New technology
• Durability
• Stretch comfort fit
• High breathability
• Wind resistance
• Water resistance
• Softer, easier to wear and more versatile with the ability to stretch for added comfort
• Can keep you drier and more comfortable that the traditional layering systems of a heavy shell jackets in the typical Jackson Hole weather
• Companies like Arcteryx are staying ahead of the game by using laminated fabrics and watertight zippers
• Major attention to detail
Fashion and trends - all of these layering systems are even better due to the ‘fit and fun’ factor
• Colors: bright and vibrant, tone on tone (Burton, Marmot, Metropolis, Spyder and Orage)
• Fur lined jackets (Marmot and Spyder)
• Prints: Plamo (plaid camouflage), asteroids etc (more snowboard oriented)
• Better fitting clothing (i.e. Orage ski pants that accentuates the positives)
• Clothing and gear have integrated technology into product:
• Jackets with mp3 and cell hook-ups (Burton and Orage)
• Helmets with mp3 and cell hook-ups (giro)
Altitude:
The base of JHMR is located a 6,311 feet, so the air is thin and dry. It takes a few days to acclimate, but you can help yourself do so more quickly by drinking lots of water, and getting plenty of rest, and beware of alcohol, it can have a stronger affect at high altitudes. With thinner air, the sun is stronger here, so be sure to pack sunscreen and sunglasses. top
When you arrive:
Flying into Jackson Hole airport, is the easiest way to get here. As you fly into the only airport located in a National Park, be sure to look out the window to catch your first glimpse of the spectacular Teton Mountain Range. The airport is 10 miles from the town of Jackson, and 22 miles from Teton Village. When you book your reservations, check to see if your lodging has a complimentary shuttle. If not, you can get a taxi for the following rates (as of Dec 05):
Airport to Teton Village: Airport to town:
1- 2 people $47 $27
3 people $61 $41
4 people $81 $51
You can also fly into Idaho Falls (2 hour drive) or into Salt Lake City (5 hour drive). There are daily shuttle services from both of these locations. Jackson Hole Airlines Schedule top
Get In and Get Skiing:
Take advantage of JHMR’s “Get in and Get Skiing” program; Simply show your boarding pass to Jackson Hole Sports in Teton Village on the day of your arrival, and you’ll receive a complimentary ski or snowboard rental along with a free half-day lift ticket for that day on us! Avoid the Morning Rush; while you’re at the mountain, consider purchasing your rentals, lessons, lift tickets, and booking activities for the next day, and the rest of your vacation. top
Where Should I Stay?
When you plan a visit to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, you can either stay right at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, in Teton Village, or you can stay in the historic town of Jackson. “Town” and “The Village” are 12 miles apart. There are advantages to staying in both locations or in between, and the decision of where to stay should be based upon your specific vacation plans. If you stay in Teton Village, you have the convenience of staying slope-side. In town, you are closer to shopping, more restaurants, movie theaters, the National Elk refuge, and other activities. As far as what type of accommodations, we have a full spectrum of options in Jackson Hole, including a hostel, small bed and breakfasts, ski homes and condos, basic motels, and luxury resorts. Lodging specials from Jackson Hole Resort Lodging / Lodging Map top
Do I need to rent a Car?
If you are staying in Teton Village, you will inevitably travel to town to do some shopping, or go to dinner, and if you are staying in town you will need to get to and from The Mountain. Jackson Hole has a public transportation system called the START Bus (Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit) that is a cheap and efficient way of traveling around the valley. A one-way trip from the town of Jackson to Teton Village is $3.00 per person, within the town limits it is Free. There are also several Cab companies in the valley, so it’s easy to find one to take you to where you want to go. A taxi ride between town and Teton Village is approximately $25 to $30 for one to two people. Most activity companies provide complimentary pick-ups, and if you’re planning on skiing or riding at Grand Targhee for the day, Alltrans runs a daily bus trip from Teton Village and Jackson.
If you plan on renting a car there are some things you should know:
1. Our abundant snow sometimes makes for stormy driving conditions.
2. Teton Village has daytime parking charges: $10 for inner lots and $5 for outer lots. Car-pooling (3 or more) is rewarded with free parking in the outer lot. It takes 5 minutes to walk from the outer lot or guests can use the Free Shuttle buses that loop from parking to the Village Center. Hotels in Teton Village will valet park (for a fee) or provide parking passes.
3. The town of Jackson has free parking.
4. The Valley is flat, so unless you are planning a trip to Grand Targhee over Teton Pass, it is not necessary to rent a 4WD vehicle Please discuss your requirements with the rental car company. Rental Car Information top
Getting what you need:
Jackson Hole is a small community, but you should have little trouble finding whatever it is you might need during your stay. We have two large grocery stores, Smiths and Albertson’s, a K-Mart, two internet cafes, a health food store, several camera shops and numerous ski and snowboard shops. There are numerous places of worship in the town of Jackson. We also have an interdenominational service at the top of the Bridger Gondola every Sunday at 11:00am. The service is outside, so dress warmly. Our hospital, St. John's Medical Center, is located two blocks from the town square. There is also a walk-in clinic in town, and a clinic in Teton Village. top
Other Activities:
Besides skiing and snowboarding, Jackson Hole has loads of winter activities to choose from, you can go snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, snow tubing, sleigh riding, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and shopping, or you can curl up by a fireplace, and do nothing at all… For more information, visit our activities web pages. You can also stop by the activities desk located in the Bridger Center, next to the Mountain Sports school desk, to book any of these activities. top Winter Activities
Driving: Downtown Jackson to Teton Village: 30 minutes
Take Broadway to Hwy 22. Follow Hwy 22 for approximately 5 miles, veer right at the stop light at the intersection of Hwys 390 and 22 and follow Hwy 390 for 7 miles to Teton Village.
Park and Ride: Park for Free at the Teton Village Transportation Center (located at the intersection of Hwys of 390 and 22). Shuttles depart to Teton Village every 20 minutes or more regularly during morning and late afternoon times.
START Bus:
Downtown Jackson to Teton Village: 40 minutes
Cost from Jackson to Teton Village: $3 each way
For schedule and Bus Stops see your Front Desk
The bus drops you off in front of the Clock Tower Building at the base of the mountain. START Schedule
Parking:
Daily Rates: $10 for Village, Cody and Crystal Springs lots
$5 for Ranch lot. (5 minute walk to lifts or free shuttle bus option)
Carpool 3 or more free parking in Ranch lot. Compliments of Chevrolet.
Leash Law – not just for dogs!
If you snowboard or telemark at JHMR you are required to possess a leash and have it attached to your equipment before you board any lifts from the base. These leashes can be purchased at Jackson Hole Sports. top
This is a personal choice, but here at JHMR we provide demo and regular rental equipment that matches the needs of most of our visitors. The conditions should dictate the equipment you use, so even if you are an equipment junkie who can’t help but buy new gear each year, consider renting “fats” on those Powder Days or taking a demo in Resort where you can try the gear usually for a fee that is waivered if you buy.
1. Powder Skis - ‘Types of fat skis’ and general overview
Types of powder skis (what is out there) –
• the really fat ones and then the not so fat ones.
• Every year skis are getting wider and wider.
• A few years ago a mid fat would have been around a 70 mm waist. These days mid fats are high 70’s to high 80’s under foot.
• The same trend as happened in fat skis/powder skis. A 94mm waist would have been extremely wide a few years back. Today 106mm-108’s are common place.
• Extra width means more surface area and accordingly more flotation. Think snowboards!
On the deepest days you want something wide under foot.
• Something like an Fischer Prohete (106 under foot),
• Atomic Sugar Daddy ( 99 under foot) will let you float effortlessly.
• for the ladies a K2 Phat Luvs (95 under foot).
One thing to keep in mind is some of us like straighter skis vs a ton of sidecut.
• The different dimensions from tip to waist to tail will dictate how turny a ski will be.
Also the stiffness will play a big role for larger skiers.
• You do not want to throw a 110 lb woman on to a 185 Rossignol B4, leave this one for the bigger skier.
Deepest days-
• softest, widest- like a Elan 999
• or a K2 Apache Chief
Variable days-
• Fat skis still work well, but maybe not the fattest ones anymore.
• Try a Salomon Gun
• or a K2 Apache Outlaw.
• A lot of locals use their fat skis every day, not as good for an intermediate. Something a bit skinnier and stiffer will help you plow through the crud. The harder the snow gets, the narrower you will want to go. Try a Rossignol B3 in (men’s and women’s) for that ultimate all mtn feel. The K2 Lotta Luv/ Recon or the Elan 777 to hold an edge on anything terrain.
Fat skis are just more fun! Your legs will work less and you will ski way better and more aggressive.
• Fat skis ski groomers extremely well.
• You can carve a beautiful turn with any fat ski.
• Ones with more sidecut like a Salomon Foil will want to turn more.
2. Boots - ‘getting the right fit’
• Most important piece of equipment you can purchase.
• The right fit means everything.
• All of your energy travels through your boots to your bindings and eventually to your skis.
Different boots fit different people.
Stiffer means more performance. 2 types of stiffness- torsional and longitudinal.
• Torsional is the side to side stiffness.
• Boots these days have gotten stiffer in this regard and softer in the longitudinal (forward and backward) because of the new shape of skis.
Some boots are wider than others:
Atomic M series of boots are wider than the T series.
• Try the M9 W or the M10 for guys if you have a high volume boot.
• The T9W and the T10 are high performance boots with the Recco receiving system built in as well as being wired for foot warmers. (We sell Hotronic foot warmers for people with habitually cold feet. )
If you have an average volume foot, maybe a bit wide in the toe box, you can try the Salomon Rush 8’s for Women or the X wave 9’s or 7’s for men.
For just a good average fit try the Rossignol Bandit series or the Intense 1.
Almost all high end boots come with a customizable heat moldable liner.
• Makes the fit that much better.
• If you want an even more accurate fit you can be molded with a full on custom liner with Intuition liners. Not only do they fit better, but they are warmer and lighter than stock liners.
Footbeds are an integral part of your fit.
• Not only will they improve your skiing, but they will support your feet. Think of how a race car seat holds the driver. A custom fit means quicker response time and more support means your feet will be happier at the end of the day.
• We can make you a custom DFP footbed in under a half hour. As an added bonus, the cork/foam mixture of the footbed will keep you a bit more insulated.
Bootfitting- Not every boot will fit exactly right. Boots are kind of like casts, but they are moldable to a certain extent. If you have some type of bony area on your feet, our Masterfit bootfitters will solve your problems. We want your gear to feel as good as ours!
3. Helmets - ‘How to fit a helmet’
• You want your fit snug, but not cutting circulation.
• Don’t buy a kids helmet too big, for savings.
• Giro, Leedom, Red, 661 helemts
• Removable ear flaps and foam inserts allow for customization and venting.
• Giro MX and Fuse have a sliding ventilation system, to quickly and accurately affect your temperature.
• Full face helmets from 661 and Giro offer more protection for advancing riders and racers.
• Giro helmets are Tune Up compatible which means you can add Music(mp3) or cellular phone options.
• All helmets have hypoallergenic liners.
• You can purchase headliners or skull caps to wear under your helmet if you are a very cold person, or if you want to customize your venting by pulling out inserts and wearing a liner.
• Helmets are super popular in Jackson for a reason. Function and fashion have meshed well in this market.
• Remember if you cracked or dented your helmet, it is time for a new one. If you are uncertain, have the pros at Jackson Hole Sports help you out.
4. When to tune your skis - ‘The what and when of tuning skis’
Do you ski everyday or on vacation, or ski in the backcountry, or do you race competitively?
If you are on vacation or ski everyday
• Sensing a change in the behavior of ski means it’s time for a tune.
• Use your ‘ski sense’.
Backcountry skiers
• Typically tune infrequently
• Yet tend to accumulate quite a bit of damage and often
Racing:
• Even with out damage done to the ski, you’ll want to tune often.
What to look for:
A base repair and tune works great to solve:
• Multiple scratches
• gouges
Edge work (sharpening or deburing) helps if the bases have:
• Burrs
• Rust
A simple wax helps solve:
• Grayish bases
• Dry looking bases
Self test/something to do yourself:
• Hold ski up to one that is brand new or a freshly full-tuned and note the difference. If it is a significant difference, its time for a tune.
Get a professional help
• If ski is broken
• Bent ski
• Cracked edges
• Gouge or ‘cove-shot’ on the basealong the edge
• If ski is acting up or misbehaving. top
YES – there are no two ways around this. Your vacation will be better for tuning up your skills upon arrival. Also you will get a guide for the mountain terrain thrown in. From beginners to experts, take a look at the half day, full day and multi-day options. JHMR is like nowhere else you have skied before, make sure you get the most out of what we have to offer.
Getting Back On Your Skis
Ever been in a sticky situation and had your skis pop off on the hardest part of run…just when you needed it most? Here’s what to do: Get both skis back together. You can flag down passing skiers or riders if any of your gear is up the hill a ways.
Getting back in your skis on a steep run can be tricky, especially in hard snow conditions. Make sure the heel pieces are in the ready position, which is most often ‘up.’ Plant your downhill pole below your ski and move the ski on top of its basket, making sure it’s perfectly level. A friend can help you here too. Line up the toe and then the heel. Press down with the heel,…and presto!..you’re in!
Now for the uphill ski: Stomp a level platform in the snow with your downhill ski, and take one step downhill, using your edge to keep from slipping. Place your uphill ski in the platform you made and put your other boot in the binding.
Finally, if you popped out on the hardest part of the run, there’s a good chance that your bindings saved you from an injury. If they released because you were out of balance, visit the Jackson Hole Mountain Sports School to ski with a Pro, who can help dial up your skills and open new terrain to you. Have fun and happy Skiing! ~70 seconds
When the snow is hard
To be the boss when the snow feels like ice, try these techniques: Begin your turn earlier, and finish the turn gradually, to control your speed throughout the turn, rather than just at the end.
Some skier make a J-shaped turn, (candid lower level skiers over their heads in double blue terrain, or out-of-uni schooler, lookin’ dorky on ice)in which all the skidding and speed control happen at the end of the turn. Instead (TM free skiing easy round turns), try to get your skis skidding at the top of the turn. Continue the skid through the turn, finishing the turn more if you need more speed control. This rounder turn shape is more aesthetic, and more effective at managing speed. (GS sized turns at Teewinot speeds, lower body zoom shot that shows leg/feet/boot/skis in action, throwing a little snow)
Sharp Edges can make a big difference. Jackson Hole Sports offers a complete tuning service, a Wintersteiger stonegrinder, and highly trained ski and board technicians. Other shops in Jackson and Teton Village also offer good tunes. A good tune is critical in gate racing, like Nastar (show race clip and Nastar course), where skiers face some of the hardest and slickest skiing on the mountain. In fact skiing through the gates also encourages the skills we mentioned earlier. So round out your turns and sharpen your edges…the ice will melt when it sees you coming! (TM in long, round, nearly racy turns on pristine corduroy. ) ~70 seconds
Skiing in flat light
Skiers sometimes refer to flat light skiing or riding as skiing in pea soup or inside the ping pong ball. These foggy visibility conditions can be tricky, intimidating, and downright dangerous, but with these simple tips, you can up the safety and the fun factor.
First, skiing familiar terrain when it’s hard to see will ensure that you don’t end up over your head.
Second, Get good goggles, with lenses made for flat light skiing.
Third, skiing or riding near trees provides contrast, and depth perception. Out in the open shadows of tracks, troughs or dropoffs can blend in.
Fourth, skiing or riding with family or friends in a tight group also gives you a visual frame of reference. If you are confident, seeing well, or know the run, you can be the ‘seeing eye’ for those behind. If you’re less sure, let others lead.
