Your Guide to Cody Peak

I have a photo of Cody Peak framed on the wall of my office. Whenever I need some inspiration I take a moment and ponder the mountain. It is so iconically Jackson and the terrain on it will challenge every fiber of your being. If you have ever skied off of the tram or Sublette chair at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort you have most likely notice the jagged peak to the South. Cody Peak is an extreme skier’s dream. With access just outside of the ski area boundary and a short boot pack, average joes can access terrain that is seen in extreme skiing movies. The peak is not for the faint of heart and I would recommend only for expert skier with extensive backcountry experience. There have been countless avalanches on Cody Peak as well as avalanche-related deaths on the peak. It is out of bounds, therefore you will need to have appropriate avalanche training and gear in order to ski the peak.

Cody Peak has numerous aesthetically pleasing lines. From the open powder field known as the Powder 8s to the extremely steep Pucker Face and narrow couloirs and chutes with names like “Once is Enough”, Cody has tons of skiable terrain. To reach Cody you leave the resort through the upper gate in Rendezvous Bowl and follow a mellow trail along the ridge to the bottom of the boot pack.

The Hike

The Cody Peak boot pack is the scariest boot pack in the Jackson Hole sidecountry area. Depending on how much snow there is the first part of the boot pack can be more like a rock scramble.. with ski boots on. It’s a heart pounding experience. Plastic soles with no tread on icy rock is not a good combination. This, coupled with the fact that the peak is avalanches-prone means that it isn’t a good choice for early season skiing. The peak is best skied with a lot of snow, when the boot pack is more than likely to be filled in – with the exception of a few spots where you will need to scramble over rock outcroppings. Additionally, the peak is very susceptible to wind. If it is blowing more than 15MPH you most likely will not want to hike Cody, where you will be pummeled by wind during your entire hike.

Once you are above the scramble the hike becomes very mellow. You will hike down the ridge and around the back side of Cody Peak. Once you get to the top of the ridge you will have to make your decision on what you want to ski.

The Lines

There are 6 lines that you can ski off of the bootpack on Cody Peak. The first line that you will approach is called Pucker Face. It is an extremely steep face with a cliff ban in the middle. From the top all you can see is a roll over, right where the cliff ban is. It’s rather nerve wracking, not particularly knowing where the cliffs are. This face is also very prone to avalanches, so if you are the first one to ski it make sure you do a proper risk assessment.

The next line that you will reach is a bowl called No Shadows. It’s popular entrance is on the skier’s right of the bowl. Next up the ridge is Four Shadows, another steep bowl which is typically plagued by a large cornice on the top. The best way to enter Four Shadows is at the highest part of the bowl on the right hand side. Four Shadows and No Shadows are north facing, which means that they are good options during a drought when all of the southern aspects are baked or frozen. Up past Four Shadows is a north facing chute. Central is a hair raising, narrow no-fall chute with a mandatory air at the bottom. If you can ski it you most likely are a pro skier or should consider changing your career.

From the top of Four Shadows there is a bootpack traverse over to the south side of the peak. The first couloir that you reach is called “Once Is Enough.” With a sketchy entrance, this steep no-fall couloir is one of the most well known lines in the Tetons. You can see the line from the road, it’s the line in the notch of Cody Peak when viewed from the South. It’s a popular line to ski in the spring when the sun warms the snow and creates edgeable corn. If you look into Once and decide that it’s a little much for you, head up the peak further (to the East) and take a look at “Twice Is Nice.” As you can gather from the name of the line, it’s a more mellow option to Once with a nice hanging powder field that narrows into a choke. This steep line is equally fun during the springtime. These lines drop you into No Name Canyon. If you are looking to extend your day, keep right at the exit of both of the couloirs and take the traverse over to No Name.

Last, but not least, are the Powder 8s. This open powder field can be access by either skiing the North facing lines on Cody (Pucker Face, No Shadows, Four Shadows or Central), and then traversing over to the bottom of the bootpack, or by hiking the bottom of the bowl at the base of Cody Peak. The Powder 8 bootpack is relatively short and steep.. I mean, sweet. From the top of the Powder 8s you can ski the powder field or traverse over to No Name Peak or drop into No Name Canyon. The Powder 8’s are popular to lap.

So there you have it. I have skied all of the lines on Cody Peak except for Central and Once. The terrain is heart pumping and exhilarating. It is really amazing to have such challenging terrain just steps outside of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort boundary. If you are a serious backcountry skier I definitely recommend fitting a hike up Cody Peak into your trip!

Hiking Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is known for their steep ski trails and relentless vertical during the winter season. However, during the summer season you can hike 4,139 vertical feet    uphill to the summit of the famed ski resort. If you think that their double black trails look intimidating during the winter, wait until you see the terrain during the summer! Some trails look completely unskiable. For example, Alta 1 is a sheer rock face, the Expert Chutes are huge craggy outcroppings and Toilet Bowl looks like it’s better fit for a rock climber than a skier. But don’t worry, there is a trail system and access road that allows you to hike among these double black diamond trails. No climbing harness necessary.

We begin at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Teton Village, Wyoming. There are a few trails that can take you to the summit. Currently, the bottom half of the Summit Trail is closed while JHMR is preparing to install a new chairlift. The alternate route is up the Wildflower Trail, a meandering trail that has beautiful vistas, park benches and of course, wildflowers when they are in season. The trail starts in the base area just to the right of the red Bridger Gondola. After about 3 miles, the Wildflower Trail meets up with the Summit Trail, which is essentially the access road for JHMR. The road switchbacks up the mountain and is the main trail used to access the summit. The total mileage of from the Wildflower Trail to the summit via the Summit Trail is approximately 6.6 miles long (one way).

If you prefer a single track trail I would suggest hiking up to the top of the Gondola and taking the Cirque Trail to the summit. There will be signage on the Summit Trail on how to access the top of the Gondola (approximately a mile after joining the Summit Trail from the Wildflower Trail). A local favorite is hiking down from the top of the tram to the top of the Gondola via the Cirque Trail or Summit Trail for drinks on the Deck. The Deck doesn’t open until 4PM so nothing is open at the top of the Gondola until then.

The Cirque Trail is steep and becomes a little bit of a scramble after you pass the top of the Sublette Chairlift. For the skiers who know Jackson Hole, the trail follows the East Ridge Traverse trail. For those with a slight fear of heights or prefer something more mellow, I would advise sticking to the Summit Trail. The summit trail passes the top of the Thunder Chair and then traverses into the bottom of Rendezvous Bowl and up to the top of the Sublette Chair, where it has one long traverse across the bowl and then zigs back up to the top of the tram.

At the top of the tram you can enjoy a delicious waffle at Corbet’s Cabin, snap a few photos and then decide whether you would like to take the tram down or hike down. Hikers can take the tram down for free. Conversely, some people prefer to take the tram up the mountain and then hike down to the base. Downhill only hikers must pay for a ticket for the tram. Unfortunately (for me), dogs aren’t allowed on the tram. However, dogs are allowed on the mountain, which isn’t the case for any of the trails in the neighboring Grand Teton National Park. For a trail map and a list of all of the trail descriptions visit Jackson Hole’s website. As always, bring bear spray, food and plenty of water on your hike.

Granite Canyon Hike

There are many gorgeous canyons to hike through in the Teton Range – Cascade Canyon, Paintbrush Canyon and Death Canyon to name a few. Granite Canyon creates the north border of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, one of the local ski areas. The canyon leads you from the valley floor up 2,000 feet to the open fields behind the ski resort and then to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain should you choose to continue that way up the trail.

The trail is typically hiked from the top of the Tram down to the base of the ski resort. You can purchase a ticket for the tram at the base of the mountain for $26. For a $6 off coupon follow this link. The hike, while all downhill, is rather long (12.75 miles long to be exact) so I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone who isn’t in good physical shape or has small children. Also, I wouldn’t suggest that you do this hike if you are flying in from sea level and it is your first day in Jackson. The summit elevation of the Rendezvous Mountain (top of the tram) is 10,450 feet and that can be a challenge if you aren’t yet acclimated.

From the top of the tram you head south towards Cody Peak until you see a trail sign on the right hand side indicating the direction to Marion Lake and Granite Canyon. Almost immediately you enter Grand Teton National Park. From there you lose elevation quickly via a series of long switchbacks.

After about 2 miles of downhill switchbacks (with one small uphill one thrown in)   you will reach a number of open fields. At the trail junction take a right to head towards Granite Canyon. You get a good view of the back side of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and some of the surrounding mountains. In June to early July the field is filled with gorgeous wildflowers. When we hiked it last weekend there were some flowers but most had already bloomed and died. However, there was some active wildlife – we saw a deer grazing in the field as well as a momma ruffed grouse with her babies.

At the next trail junction you will take a right to get into Granite Canyon. I must be honest, it isn’t the most spectacular canyon in the park since you rarely get a view of the valley and the mountains surrounding the canyon aren’t particularly spectacular. Of course it is pretty though, and unique in it’s own way. The things that the canyon has going for it is that it is rarely traveled so if you are looking to get away from the crowds it’s a good hike and it is very convenient since there is easy access via the tram. We hiked up the canyon (I’m not a big fan of downhills) and the pitch once you hit the fields back down to the valley is very mellow. We were able to cruise at a pace of almost 3 miles per hour. Which we probably wouldn’t have been able to sustain if we were in any of the other canyons.

The trail through the canyon does follow a stream which has some beautiful cascades. Also, if you are an avid skier you get a good look at some of the backcountry lines off of the side of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Once you reach the bottom of the canyon you follow the Valley Trail back to the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

As always, bring your bear spray and plenty of food and water as well as some warm layers and a rain jacket. Plan to make a day of this hike so you aren’t rushed and have time to take in the scenery and serenity of the backcountry.

Gaper Fools Day in Jackson Hole

Every year April Fools Day brings an onslaught of harmless pranks and tomfoolery across the US. In the “peter pan” town of Jackson Hole, where every resident refuses to grow up, it is only natural that its residents take April Fools Day to a whole other level. At Jackson Hole Mountain Resort the locals descend on to the hill in bright neon onesies, jeans, rear entry boots and snow blades. While we appreciate the skiers who visit our valley, sometime their attire is downright hilarious. Some people feel like if you go skiing once a year, why invest in a good ski jacket and pants? Why not just use an one piece that you bought in the 90s, or a pair stretch pants from the 80s? So in turn, us locals dress up like those visitors. While this day may seem like a jab to our visitors, it really presents an opportunity to escape the rad bro get ups and just have some good old fashion (literally) fun.

The term gaper is derived from the gap present between the goggles and hat or helmet. Unfortunately, this feature is indicative of an individual who rarely skis or who is learning how to ski. It may seem a bit pretentious, but Gaper Day is all about having fun. You get to ski in a pizza, mess around in the lift line and laugh at yourself and others, a lot. The best way to witness this spectacle is to head to the “Thunder Bumps” on the Thunder trail located under the Thunder chairlift. By mid day there will be a party at the top of the trail, people eject out of their skis and drink beers while watching fellow gapers do tricks off of a small jump. To get a taste of what you’re in for check this video out (fast forward to 2:30 if you want to see people skiing off of the jump). Ultimately, gaper day is about having a good time.

After the mountain closes, head to the base in front of the tram. The ridiculousness continues off the hill and into the evening.

As with anything in the ski industry, there is no shortage of alcohol involved, so make sure you partake responsibly. Skiing intoxicated can be quite dangerous. Thanks to the amount of hotels, restaurants and bars who own property in the area the liquor laws extend to the base area. You can walk around with an open container from anywhere, the liquor store, a bar, your backpack, etc. without getting in trouble. Though I will caution you, make sure that if you do drink, DO NOT DRIVE. Take the START Bus. The police are aware of gaper day and they tend to increase their presence on the road. Above all, go have a good time and dress appropriately!

Jackson Hole’s All Blue Casper

This winter Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has introduced a new “all blue” section of the mountain. Casper has always been a popular area of the mountain for the intermediate skier to visit, however, the triple chair that took you to the top of the area was painstakingly slow. Also, the seat of the chair did not have any cushion so your feet would often fall asleep on the ride up.

This past summer Jackson Hole Mountain Resort replaced the triple with a high speed quad, and boy the new chair is fast! Some skiers complain that the don’t have time to chat on the lift because by the time you get into a conversation you are already unloading. While the speed is great for getting a lot of runs in, it also dumps a lot more skiers onto the hill. Unfortunately, Jackson Hole didn’t think about the amount of traffic that would be frequenting the area.

It can be crowded on the hill, but this past summer they created a new trail that comes down the face of Casper, underneath the lift. They also mellowed out the terrain and did some summer grooming, which makes Casper the perfect place for the beginner skier to try to advance their skills. It is the step up after learning how to ski on Teewinot, the beginner lift.

Casper also has a lodge where you can grab a bite to eat or sit on the deck in the spring and drink margaritas. It is convenient for the beginner or intermediate skier who wants to take a few runs and then take a break, without having to head all the way down to the base.

As much as Casper can be a great place to advance your ski or snowboard skills, be aware of others. The trails are wide but crowded. Always look over your shoulder before deciding to cut across the trail. Also, at the bottom it gets congested where all of the trails funnel into one and there are people trying to cut across the trail to get to the Casper Lodge. Getting injured by colliding with another skier or rider isn’t fun, trust me. The way to avoid this is to always be aware of your surroundings and ski in control.

In addition, for those who enjoy skiing really fast, I don’t recommend that you ski Casper. Ski patrol has been adamant in keeping Casper a learning area and they will not tolerate advanced skiers zipping by learners. They have made appearances with radar guns and will pull you over and give you a ticket (a small fine) if they catch you “speeding.”

Casper is a great addition to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. It adds a buffer between Teewinot and Apres Vous ski areas for new skiers and riders. The high speed quad will take your breath away and the wide open trails are great for taking smooth turns down. Also, all of the trails at Casper, besides the Moran Woods, are groomed. If you want to see if you are up to tackling ungroomed glades the Moran Woods can be a lot of fun. Jackson Hole is trying to soften their intimidating “all expert” mountain image and I think that the new “all blue” Casper is definitely a step towards that.

So You Want to Propose in Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The beauty of the majestic Tetons attracts couples from around the world. For some, they come to Jackson Hole to make a life altering decision and to proposition their significant other. This past weekend my life altered dramatically when my boyfriend of four years got down before me on one knee in front of tourists and locals alike.

It started out like any other weekend: “Let’s go for a hike off of the top of tram! I have been up there during the winter but I have yet to see it during the summer.” This past Saturday the weather was touch and go. It would go from clear skies and sunshine to looming clouds and rain in literally minutes. Even though Sunday’s forecast was clear and sunny my boyfriend insisted that we go up the tram – “We can get waffles!” he said. I had a sneaky suspicion that he might pop the question. We had been discussing it over the past few months and we determined that we were in a good stage of our life right now to take the next step. I told a girlfriend over breakfast that morning that I wouldn’t been surprised if he asked me at the top of the tram – it would be the perfect place. We met in New Hampshire at a ski resort (Attitash) and after about a year of dating I told Jared that I wanted to move out to Jackson Hole for the winter. The rest is history. Our relationship started on a mountain, a ski resort at that, it only made sense we should take the next step on a mountain.

As we rode up the Tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Jared played it cool. Little did I know at the time my hand had grazed across the ring box in his pocket while we rode up to the top of Rendezvous Mountain. Jared said he was hungry and wanted a waffle so we went into Corbet’s Cabin and ordered a brown sugar and butter waffle. He disappeared to use the restroom. After we got our waffle he told me that he wanted to get away from people and that we should walk down the hill a little bit to eat the waffle. Though I found it an odd request, I complied. As we headed down the mountain I spied two bouquets of flowers and a bottle of champagne as well as his backpack set next to a rock. As we neared the rock I said “I think that I know what’s going on here.” And then he proposed. It was surreal. His proposal was short and sweet and the next thing I knew I had a ring slipped on my finger and we heard shouting and applause. Some people got tipped off by the tram operator and were watching us from the tram dock. Others spied from above taking photos of the whole thing. Meanwhile, a girl from a hiking party ran up and asked if we wanted our photo taken. I was in a daze, did this really just happen? It was perfect, I couldn’t have imagined a better proposal! Girls, well control freak girls like me I should say, dream about how they get engaged. However, never once did I dream that I would get engaged at the summit of Jackson Hole. It was so, us. I have to say, it’s good to let your significant other plan your proposal, they may surprise you!

After a brief photo shoot we sat down on the rock and toasted to our new life together as fiances. We drank the champagne until our hands got too cold and we had to run for the tram. Once we arrived in the base area we went to Cascade to get a drink and call our loved ones and share the news.

I promise that this won’t turn into a sappy wedding blog, but the reason I am writing this post is because my fiance works at a hotel in Teton Village. There was a guest who wanted to propose to his girlfriend but didn’t know where to do it. He had told the front desk that he saw a photo on Jackson Hole’s Facebook page of a couple that had just got engaged at the top of the tram. The front desk had Jared come talk to the guy and give him some tips for his proposal. I figure people may have a location in mind when they come to Jackson or they may intend on scouting out some locations once they get here. Below are some suggestions on where you may propose to your prospective fiance:

Schwabacker’s Landing in Grand Teton National Park – This location has beautiful views of the Tetons but it also incorporates a water element (the Snake River) which makes for stunning photos and scenery.

Moulton Barn in Grand Teton National Park – There are two iconic barns located just off of Antelope Flats Road. Buffalo  frequent the area and the historical barns are rustic and charming.

Jackson Lake Lodge in Grand Teton National Park – the lawn at the Jackson Lake Lodge overlooks (you guessed it) Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. Moose are seen often hanging out in the brush between the lodge and the water. Perk to this location – you don’t have to go far for a celebratory drink and you can even have your friends and/or family waiting in the bar for you to announce your engagement.

Top of the Tram – Don’t feel like you are a copy cat, I’m sure that Jared isn’t the first, nor the last to do it. And wow, it’s beautiful up there. Just make sure that you bring a jacket – it gets cold up there!

The Snake River Dike – If you park on the east side of the Snake River off of Highway 22 just before Moose-Wilson Road there is a beautiful walk along the dike of the snake river. The views are phenomenal and the walk may help you calm your nerves!

There are a plethora of other options that I don’t even begin to describe here – I went for the natural route. Either way, Jackson Hole is the perfect place to get engaged. Why wouldn’t you want to have a excuse to revisit the area? After Jared proposed he told me that he couldn’t wait to bring our children back to this spot where he got down on one knee. It was the sweetest thing ever and I can’t wait to come back to Jackson (if we ever leave) and do just that.

Mountainfest, PPP & Gaper Day 2012

This weekend is going to be packed with live music, incredible athletes and tons of neon and rear entry boots. Why do I say that? Because this weekend Jackson Hole Mountain Resort hosts their Mountainfest, the Jackson Hole Ski Club puts on their Pole Peddle Paddle event, and the Jackson locals dress up as gapers.

Mountain Festival occurs every spring at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Each year the resort brings in a new performer for a live concert in the main parking lot. Previous artists include Katchafire and Grace Potter. This year’s performer is G Love and Special Sauce. They are known for their unique, “sloppy”, and “laid back” blues sound that encompasses classic R&B. Ski all day or watch the Pole, Pedal, Paddle (PPP) and then enjoy music under the tram (Lazy Eyes) starting at 3pm followed by Elk Attack, opening for G. Love and Special Sauce at 5:30pm on the main stage in the parking lot. There will also be a fireworks display following the concert. There will be plenty of START buses on hand, as well cops looking to hand out DUIs, so just a friendly reminder, if you drink, whatever you do, don’t drive.

You may be wondering what the Pole, Pedal, Paddle (PPP) is. This annual event, started 37 years ago, encompasses an alpine and nordic ski race, boating section and bike race and allows the well rounded athletes of Jackson Hole to shine. You may complete the race as an individual or as a team. Many take the race seriously, but there are awards in a family class and fun class. In the family class the team members must be immediately related. The fun class is not judged on time, but rather on how much fun the team seems to be having. In the past, one team made a barge with a grill, DJ and dance floor and took it down the boating section. The race is entertaining to watch and will have an award ceremony at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort at 4pm.

On Sunday, come ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and watch the locals dress up as gapers and play around on April (Gaper) Fools Day. What is a gaper you may ask? Visit my post on the closing of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort from last year to find out. Just expect a lot of neon, one pieces, skate skis, fanny packs, headbands and of course, tom foolery. It is one of the most fun days at the ski resort, where it isn’t about the skiing, but rather entertaining each other. For a show, make sure to ride the Thunder lift and check out the Thunder bump run, where the locals will be trying to one up each other with daffy’s and spread eagles. So dust that one piece off, break out your neon headband and join all the locals on the slopes on April 1. This weekend is bound to be action packed and full of good times. See you on the hill!

St. Patty’s Day in Jackson Hole

Like the majority of Americans, I am a mutt: a combination of multiple ethnicities that leaves me questioning why my last name is Russian when I have more German blood in me. However, one day of the year, the miniscule (or large) Irish part of everyone in the US shines. Boston born and bred, I was under the assumption growing up that St. Patty’s Day was a large holiday, such as the Fourth of July, only bigger. The celebrations are so large that when I studied abroad I went to Dublin for St. Patty’s Day expecting an even larger party. To my dismay, there was hardly a celebration at all, just a family friendly parade through the downtown. When I moved to Jackson I had no idea how big the celebration would be. Would I be in for a surprise!

There is no doubt that Jackson Hole knows how to party, and Saint Patrick’s Day is no exception. The party starts in Teton Village. After a day on the slopes head down to the base area where the local band One Ton Pig will be kicking off the festivities at 3pm under the tram. Make sure you wear your green so that you can get $6 Irish Car Bombs in Wool & Whiskey.

If you are looking for something to do that it is family friendly, head over to Snow King Resort. Snow King’s annual pond skim starts at noon on Saturday. There will be food and a cash bar. The pond skim is always a great time – dress up in your greens or get creative with a costume if you want to participate. Prepare to get wet if you stand near the pond – some contestants aim to spray the crowd with icy water as they attempt to ski or snowboard across the pond.

If you are in town, make sure that you head over to the Snake River Brew Pub. Starting at 11:30am the Brew Pub will be offering liter steins which you may purchase and use for the remainder of your time at the Brew Pub. There will be authentic Irish cuisine and what St. Patty’s Day is complete without green beer? No Car Bombs here – the Brew Pub only serves wine and beer.  At 10pm DJ Vert One will drop some beats so make sure to wear your (green) party pants.

Wherever in Jackson you may be, Saturday night is bound to be a lively night. Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band is playing at the Town Square Tavern starting at 8pm, Cherry Royale is playing at the Stagecoach in Wilson starting at 10pm ($10 cover) and as always, happy hour at the Cadillac Grille is from 4 to 6 and 10 to midnight. The Cadillac is closing for good on April 1, 2012, so make sure you make it to one last happy hour before then! So start getting your greens together and get ready to celebrate this Saint Patty’s Day with us in the Hole this Saturday.

Spring Après Ski at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

As temperatures have begun to approach 50 degrees and the sunshine remains bright late into the day, après ski at Jackson Hole evolves. No longer forced to move into a bar to keep warm after you come off the slopes, during the weekends the area under the tram becomes a full on Spring Break party.

This weekend marks the beginning of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s Music Under the Tram series. Every Saturday (starting this Saturday, March 10) until closing weekend, there will be a live band at the base of the tram dock. The band, which changes each week, starts at 3:30pm. Nick Wilson’s has built a snow bar so that you may have easy access to those well earned beers while dancing in your ski boots. Local’s tip: the base area is actually on overlapping private properties. All of the properties have their own liquor licenses so you may bring your own beer and save some cash. There are two liquor stores at the ski resort: there is one in the basement of the Mangy Moose called the Mangy Moose Cellars & Grocery and the second is the Teton Village Market, located across the main parking lot with an attached gas station. To save the most money, buy your booze in town, the liquor stores in Teton Village mark up the goods.

While waiting for the day to wind down and the music to start up at the base, head over to Casper Restaurant. This on-mountain restaurant has a deck as well as many outdoor picnic tables, arranged to perfect your goggle tan. The deck gets plenty of sun and the view of the rest of the mountain is rather easy on the eyes. Casper has a semi-full bar with a few beers on tap and your basic hard alcohols. They have a variety of specialty drinks that hit the spot. The Bloody Mary is a local favorite. New this year, Casper offers a variety of Jello shots. From Rum and Coke, Washington Apple to Lemon Meringue and Key Lime Pie these Jello shots are a work of art! The shots are 1 for $2 or 3 for $5. Clearly buying in bulk is the way to go. Just make sure that you don’t drink too much, it is an on-mountain restaurant after all, so you must ski down after imbibing.

I suggest that you take advantage of the sunshine and warm weather while you can. As the snow softens, the skiing gets more leisurely, no longer having to battle long lift lines for fresh powder. It’s a nice shift and the weather provides a glimpse of the summer to come after a long winter.

Out of Bounds at Jackson Hole – Four Pines

Today was forecasted to be a beautiful bluebird powder day. So after putting in a few hours at work I gathered up all of my gear and headed to the bus stop. Managing to look as disheveled as I possibly could (poles at an outward 90 degree angle, jacket unzipped, backpack on one shoulder, skis flopping around) I managed to find a seat on the bus. The next 20 minutes were torture.. why aren’t we there yet? Finally, the doors opened and a sea of skis, snowboards and brightly clad skiers emerged from the bus.

I headed straight for the tram line where I rendezvoused with two of my friends. The line was unbearably long for a Friday (don’t people ever work around here?). After 40 minutes we were finally crammed into the red box flying uphill at an amazing clip. As we got higher the wind outside became more audible. That’s the only downside of crystal clear skies: lots of wind. When we reached the top it took every ounce of my body to walk across the wind scoured tram dock.

*Note – Please do not decide to venture out into the backcountry unless you have the right equipment (shovel, probe, beacon), training and an awareness of the snow pack and terrain. Always visit jhavalanche.org and read the avalanche report before venturing into backcountry terrain. It is not controlled for avalanches and can be extremely dangerous.*

Finally, making it to the snow I dropped my skis on the snow, tighten my boots and traversed across the top of Rendezvous Bowl. We decided to go out the upper gate and ski the bowl just out of bounds. We avoided getting cliffed out by sticking to the left hand side, close to the boundary line. There are some gnarly cliffs in the area, and if you don’t know where you are going you can easily find yourself on top of one.

After doing some sidestepping across the Rock Springs Bench we made it to the base of the first boot pack. The first boot pack is short and steep (not to be confused with sweet). We opted to save time by shouldering our skis. I got into the rhythm of putting one foot in front of the other and hoping that I wouldn’t post hole through the soft new snow. After much grunting and heavy breathing I make it to the top, only to strap on my skis and traverse over to the next boot pack.

While we were traversing we happened to see some avalanche activity on Four Pines – where we were heading. It was a north facing aspect and had let go naturally yesterday afternoon. Seeing the avalanche evidence naturally led to us discussing our plan. We wanted to ski safely and avoid triggering an avalanche – no amount of powder is worth dying for. After a brief discussion of whether to ski Green River (more mellow with an east facing aspect), we decided to press on and make conservative decisions once atop Four Pines.

After another boot pack we found ourselves at the top of Four Pines. And what a gorgeous day it was! Clear blue skies, a sea of fresh white powder waiting to be skied. The skiing was great! A little heavy, but still, nothing beats untouched powder. We followed proper protocol: skiing one at a time, waiting in safe zones. What a great day in the office! Days like today seal my fate: it’s impossible to leave such a beautiful, wonderful place! High fives were given all around and we headed back to the lift (and back to the office..).

If you are looking to venture into the backcountry and have a similar experience there are ways to do it without putting yourself in danger. Jackson Hole has a variety of experienced guides that are more than happy to take a newbie or advanced backcountry skier into the backcountry. The only requirement is that you are a Intermediate/Advanced skier and that you are in good physical shape. They don’t call it earning your turns for nothing! Here are some backcountry guides that I would recommend:

Jackson Hole Backcountry Guides – If you are looking to ski the sidecountry – the backcountry off of Jackson Hole, these guys are your best bet.

If you are looking to ski the backcountry in Grand Teton National Park or go on a longer ski tour and summit some of the peaks in the area these are the two guiding companies that I would recommend using:

Exum Guides

Jackson Hole Mountain Guides

Now be safe and go enjoy all the fresh snow that we have been getting!