Cross Country Skiing
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Jackson Hole: A Nordic Skiing Paradise
Despite its global reputation as a steep skier's mecca, Jackson Hole harbors a strong Nordic skiing community with many miles of high-quality trails, gear rental shops, and even instructors. Nordic skiing is an ideal outing for those seeking a break from alpine skiing or a quiet, immersive natural experience with a bit of exercise. The most comprehensive Nordic skiing resource for the valley is Jackson Hole Nordic. Locals and visitors alike can find relevant information, from rentals to instruction options to grooming schedules, on their website.
Top Nordic Skiing Locations
Teton Pines Nordic Center
Teton Pines Nordic Center offers nearly 10 miles of groomed trails on their summer golf course. For first-time Nordic skiers, the center also provides instruction and rentals.
Shooting Star Nordic Track
Shooting Star Nordic Track provides approximately 9 miles of trails featuring varied terrain.
Grand Teton National Park
In nearby Grand Teton National Park, you can ski on a flat trail under the towering Cathedral Group of the Teton Range. This location is particularly stunning and offers a unique skiing experience.
Grand Targhee Resort
If you're at Grand Targhee, you'll find excellent Nordic trails along with instruction and gear rentals. There are also many equipment rental companies in downtown Jackson, such as Skinny Skis and Teton Mountaineering. Generally, Nordic ski rentals are more affordable than alpine, usually costing around $40 or less.
Important Considerations for Independent Skiers
There are a few things to keep in mind if you venture out on your own. Should you encounter any wildlife, maintain a significant distance or turn around. Winter is highly stressful for wildlife, and human encounters can be deadly stressors. On certain trails like Cache Creek and Game Creek, dogs are required to be on leashes to protect wintering wildlife.
Guided Cross-Country Ski Tours
A guided cross-country ski tour is an excellent choice if you wish to combine Nordic skiing with a more enriching experience. Companies like Jackson Hole EcoTour Adventures offer tours that include winter wildlife watching. Other guided excursions are available through organizations like The Hole Hiking Experience, which provides skiing and naturalist-led tours with insights into the local flora and fauna of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. A half-day guided cross-country ski trip with Hole Hiking starts at around $180 per person.
