Ski Report for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming
Daily Ski Conditions for Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is off to a thrilling start this season as it celebrates its 60th anniversary with solid early snow and limited but quality terrain open. The resort opened on December 4th with three lifts running—the Teewinot, Après Vous, and the Sweetwater Gondola to mid-mountain—providing access largely to beginner and intermediate runs on the north side. As of now, all 13 lifts remain closed except these initial three, with hopes for more terrain and lifts to open imminently depending on conditions.
Snow depths reflect a promising base for December: around 65 inches at the summit and 34 inches mid-mountain, created through a combination of natural snowfall and extensive snowmaking. Recent storms have dumped 20 to 30 inches at higher elevations in the last week, growing the snowpack significantly—at 9,000 feet, depths have increased from about 18-23 inches early this month to roughly 42-47 inches now. New snowfall in the last 24 to 48 hours includes about 4 to 6 inches, though mixed precipitation with rain has affected lower elevations occasionally, making conditions variable. Temperatures during the day hover in the low 30s Fahrenheit at the base, dipping below freezing at higher elevations, with some brief warm spells pushing snow levels upward; however, expect cold and crisp conditions typical for mid-December as you ascend.
As for the number of open trails, early season terrain is limited to areas served by the open lifts, mainly focused on beginner and intermediate runs, while advanced and expert terrain remain largely closed due to snow coverage and safety precautions. Ski Patrol and resort staff are advising visitors to stick to open, marked trails to avoid hazards common during early season. Piste conditions vary, from groomed snow on open runs to some patches of early-season firmness; off-piste conditions remain less predictable with occasional wind crust and slushy spots due to temperature swings. The mountain’s massive 4,139-foot vertical drop and over 130 trails, with half classified as expert, still await full opening as more snow settles.
The current weather near the resort is mostly cold with fluctuating cloud cover, occasional light snow, and variable winds mostly from the southwest at moderate speeds. Expect daytime highs around 30-32°F at the base, with colder temps higher up. The five-day forecast calls for mostly dry and partly sunny weather with occasional light snow showers scattered through the period, including small accumulations on some days, maintaining or slightly boosting base conditions. Temperatures will generally remain in the 20s to low 30s at resort elevations, with some warmer spells pushing into the low 40s at lower valley levels, but nights will stay below freezing to preserve snow quality.
Season total snowfall is already well on its way to historic levels seen in previous decades, with 350+ inches of snow recorded in past peak winters, signaling strong powder potential once conditions allow full mountain access. This season, visitors can anticipate plenty of opportunities for deep powder skiing and iconic Jackson Hole terrain, especially as additional lifts and in-bound acres open.
Special notices for visitors include strict management of mountain capacity with advance reservations required for Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective holders to ensure a great experience. Safety measures are emphasized during these early opening weeks due to the incomplete terrain and natural hazards. The resort also celebrates with events like a $60 lift ticket day on December 19th and family-friendly activities throughout December. Meanwhile, the famed Aerial Tram is available for sightseers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering spectacular views and access to Corbet’s Cabin for a taste of its renowned Top of the World Waffles.
All in all, Jackson Hole is serving up an exciting mix of early season snow, celebrated heritage, and cautious optimism. Whether you’re a powder hound chomping at the bit or a cautious cruiser easing into the season, the Tetons are ready to welcome you onto this epic mountain playground. Just be prepared for early season conditions—variable snow, limited terrain, and the necessity to ski smart and safe to make the most of your visit. The mountain is gearing up for an unforgettable winter that’s already starting to deliver the legendary “cold smoke” powder Jackson Hole is famous for.
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