The ski trip — much like the sport itself — very often produces sticker shock.
Although season passes from Ikon, Epic and Mountain Collective have softened the blow for those who plan to rack up days on the snow, there’s still the eye-popping cost of ski and boot rentals, the investment in proper ski gear (avoiding frozen toes and fingers is essential), not to mention accommodations, three squares a day and airfare.
All of the above in Jackson Hole, Wyo., a charming Western town that pays homage to its cowboy roots, requires a decent dip into the vacation savings fund, to be sure. But it is possible to experience this coveted ski destination on a budget. You just have to know which corners to cut and where to find the savings. We’re going to let you in on all the secrets below for exploring Jackson Hole, the 80-mile-long valley, and Jackson, the town situated in the valley.
First up, the pass
There’s one main ski mountain here, and it’s operated by Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. If you are an Ikon cardholder, you’re in luck because the resort is on the Ikon pass. The standard pass, which gets you up to seven days on the mountain — reservations required — costs $1309 for the 2023-24 season. Ikon pass members traveling with non-members get a small discount on vouchers for friends and family. At 25%, it’s not terribly generous, but it’s better than nothing. The Ikon pass is no longer available for purchase this season, however, so if you’re looking to save on skiing in Jackson Hole, you could opt for a discounted half-day pass for as low as $169, available on the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort website.
Another option is purchasing beginner-only lift access. For $50, it’s a steal, especially for those who maybe aren’t as advanced as this steep mountain necessitates or for those who are simply more keen on the aprés action. Bear in mind, this offer won’t get you access to most of the runs, but depending on your ability and/or interest level, it may serve as a fine introduction to this lauded mountain.
Next, a hotel — probably outside of Teton Village
Hotels with ski-in/ski-out access in Teton Village, the resort town surrounding Jackson Hole Resort, have prices to match their privileged set up. While Four Seasons Jackson Hole is definitely a draw for expense account types, and Hotel Terra lures canoodling couples who love a rooftop hot tub, Jackson, about a 25-minute car ride away, has a number of wallet-friendly options.
The Anvil Hotel is a cozy, American West spot in town where rooms are outfitted with custom Woolrich blankets on iron-framed beds and start at about $161 a night. Meanwhile, the retro-inspired Virginian Lodge has fire pits, a lively saloon and cool vibes all around, all at less than $200 a night. Jackson also has plenty of Airbnb or VRBO options if you want a space with a kitchen for some self-service meals or just more room to spread out your gear at the end of the day. Rates will vary based on availability and demand. A weekday stay is typically going to be less expensive on average than a weekend or a holiday stay.
If you’re adamant about staying in Teton Village for quick and easy mountain access and are open to spending a little more on your accommodation, Gravity Haus is an option. The three-star hotel with clean rooms and an outdoor pool and hot tub is just yards from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s main base.
Aprés that’s easy on the wallet
Corbet’s Cabin at the top of the aerial tram, a cable car that goes from the mountain’s base to the very top of Jackson Hole Resort, is a must even if you’re not planning to ski down the 4,139 vertical feet (expert terrain only up here). You can buy a separate round-trip tram ticket ($37) for the 360-degree views of the Tetons. The waffles sold up top are non-negotiable. Seating is first come, first served and often communal.
In Teton Village, the Mangy Moose’s reputation precedes it. The restaurant and saloon get busy for aprés ski when the live music starts, and in addition to the (free) entertainment, you’re here for the enormous plate of nachos. The nachos’ pulled pork topping is extra in all meanings of the word, but this plate is unimpeachable.
For slightly fancier yet not at all pretentious fare, head to Il Villaggio Osteria at Hotel Terra. The grab-and-go breakfast and lunch space, just off the main full-service restaurant, transforms into a hip and happening aprés wine bar in the afternoon. Snack on cheese and charcuterie and sip from an impressive by-the-glass selection.
In town, any local and visitor-in-the-know will tell you to go to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Drinks are priced handsomely ($6 beers and less than $10 for a hair-on-your-chest gin and tonic) at this establishment where actual horse saddles serve as bar seats. It gets hectic and crowded as the evening goes on, but for a happy hour spot, it doesn’t disappoint.
If you’re staying in downtown Jackson, beeline to Persephone Bakery first thing in the morning for a coffee and authentic French pastry fix and perhaps ham and cheese on a baguette for later.
Somewhere along the way, before you leave Jackson for home, be sure to stop for a sloshie. This frozen concoction is made with sugar, ice, and booze, and it’s become a beloved staple in the Wyoming town.
Get a bus pass
On a recent trip, before discovering the public bus option, I begrudgingly shelled out $95 for a ride from the airport to Teton Village. How I wish I would have known to skip the expensive car rental and the pricey Uber rides and buy a $10 ticket to ride the START bus. The new airport shuttle accepts cash upon boarding or you can pay ahead in the Transit app.
The downside is that if your final destination is Teton Village, you’ll have to transfer in Jackson to the Teton Village Shuttle as the airport shuttle only makes four downtown stops and does not continue on to the village.
