Two premier ski resorts that share kudos for offering the best ski vacations for families can be found in Teton County Wyoming. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is tucked in the eastern shadows of the Grand Teton Mountains while Grand Targhee is nestled on the western slope of the Teton Range. Teton Springs Lodge & Spa, an award-winning property, also shares residency in Teton County, but this award-winning resort, which attracts families from across the country, happens to be in the State of Idaho, basically straddling the Idaho-Wyoming border. It’s difficult to find natural beauty as extraordinary as it is here. Simply traveling to Teton Springs from the Jackson Hole Airport is an eye-popping scenic wonder. Be prepared for many stops along the way to absorb the unencumbered magnificence of this entire region.
Teton Springs Lodge in Victor, Idaho, almost guarantees the best ski vacation for families with its proximity to both these Wyoming destination ski resorts, but in particular, Grand Targhee. This area, beating out most competitors in the entire country for an average snowfall often topping 500 inches each winter, is the real deal, in so many aspects. It boasts a family friendly vibe not often found at the larger mega ski resorts that guests often find a tad disenchanting. And, Targhee’s stats alone don’t tell the important story, especially if compared to the king-sized destinations on a criterion based on number of chair lifts, accommodations or retail opportunities etc. Grand Targhee, the powder Mecca, has even a better story, one that has to be experienced to truly appreciate.
In addition to legitimate bragging rights relative to the consistent snow that graces Targhee’s slopes, it’s the quality of their snow that propels them to the top of the list. With a base area of 8,000 feet and top summit of 10,200, the snow is dry and light, day after day, snowstorm after snowstorm. Targhee also grooms a healthy number of their slopes, and again, there’s no need to sharpen those skis for this snow. It’s like cruising through butter; Mother Nature makes it easy. Given the mellow, unassuming qualities frequently attributed to Targhee, skiers and snowboarders are often astonished at the big mountain experience at Targhee. Its vast, wide-open terrain and slopes are primarily above tree line making this the ultimate cruising mountain. On a clear day, one can see forever from the scenic overlook at the summit. Numerous mountain ranges and Yellowstone National Park can be seen in the distance.
Teton Springs Lodge guests this winter are even more excited than ever to visit Teton Valley as Grand Targhee celebrates half a century of providing families memorable winter adventures. While Targhee is located just inside the Wyoming border, access to this mountain is solely through Idaho. It’s an unimportant technicality to those traveling thru the area. And, it’s especially trivial to the Idaho residents spread across the diverse Teton Valley communities as they delight in their daily ritual of gazing at the unobstructed views of the Grand Tetons.
This golden anniversary is especially poignant for the local residents as it was Teton Valley families that bonded together back in the 1960’s, proud and practical people, determined to establish a recreation area in their beloved Teton Mountains. They needed an economic engine, something besides farming and ranching, to sustain their family’s future and even more importantly, to create a multi-use playground they could enjoy together as a community. Grand Targhee is a lasting legacy to the spirit, determination and vision of these residents. Targhee is their pride and joy.
Throughout the 2019-20 ski season, Targhee will celebrate this now nationally recognized destination resort. Teton Springs Resort guests will join in the festivities and enjoy everything this humble ski area still holds dear; unparalleled snow, terrain that suits everyone’s needs and amenities and activities for all ages. Teton Springs guests have a variety of affordable ski and snowboard packages to choose from, and after a delightful day on the slopes, will return to their elegant rooms for a well-needed rest. Dreaming of fresh powder again tomorrow.