Grand Targhee is the definition of a hidden gem. Perched on the western slope of the Tetons, it quietly collects more than 500 inches of snow every year—without the crowds or ego that its famous neighbor, Jackson Hole, attracts. The vibe is different here: relaxed, genuine, and all about the snow. It’s a place where locals ski bell to bell, kids rip powder lines beside their parents, and everyone smiles because they know they’ve found the good stuff.
Quick Stats
- Location: Alta, Wyoming (near Driggs, Idaho)
- Elevation: 7,851 ft base / 9,862 ft summit
- Vertical Drop: 2,270 ft
- Skiable Terrain: 2,602 acres
- Annual Snowfall: ~500 inches
- Number of Runs: 97
- Lifts: 6 (including 5 chairlifts and 1 magic carpet)
- Vibe Check: Deep snow, no crowds, and pure Teton magic
The Vibe
Grand Targhee feels like the ski world’s best-kept secret—a laid-back community of powder lovers surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. The terrain is playful and full of variety, from gentle groomers to deep tree lines and open bowls. There’s no glitz, no mega-infrastructure—just snow and space. Après means beer on the deck, live music, and swapping stories about the day’s face shots. It’s family-friendly, refreshingly affordable, and built around what really matters: skiing.
Must-Ride Runs
🟢 Greens
- Shoshone Trail – wide and mellow, great for first-timers to get their bearings.
- Lost Groomer – gentle turns and mountain views in every direction.
🟦 Blues
- Crazy Horse – classic Targhee run: rolling terrain, trees, and powder pockets.
- Chief Joseph Bowl – fast, flowy cruiser that skis like a dream after fresh snow.
- Sticks & Stones – intermediate glade that’s pure fun from top to bottom.
♦ Blacks
- Pat’s Face – expert run with sustained pitch and soft snow days after storms.
- Chief Joseph Bowl Headwall – steep, natural lines with rewarding turns.
- The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly – triple-black glades that live up to the name.
Après + Town Stays
Après at Targhee is mellow, local, and full of character. The focus is on good food, cold drinks, and live music—not velvet ropes.
- Trap Bar & Grill – slopeside hub for live bands, burgers, and beers.
- Snorkels Café – breakfast burritos and espresso before first chair.
- Forage Bistro & Lounge – refined comfort food in nearby Driggs.
- Teton Thai – spicy curries and mountain hospitality; a local favorite.
- Citizen 33 Brewery – craft beer and hearty fare in downtown Driggs.
- Teton Teepee Lodge – rustic, affordable lodge with ski-in convenience.
- Teton Valley Resort – cabins and glamping options perfect for families.
Travel Tips
Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)—about 1.5 hours away—or Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA), roughly a 90-minute drive. The Targhee Shuttle runs from Driggs daily, and parking at the resort is free and easy. The best powder typically hits from mid-January through March, but early-season storms can surprise you. If you want deep snow and zero crowds, aim for a weekday visit.
Fun Facts
- Grand Targhee sits on the western side of the Tetons, which trap storms and deliver consistent powder.
- The resort is often called “The Ghee” by locals.
- It averages over 500 inches of snow annually—among the most in the Rockies.
- You can see the Grand Teton from almost every lift.
- It’s one of the few major resorts where lift tickets stay under $150, even on weekends.
Why It Made Our Top 50 List
Grand Targhee made the list because it’s what skiing used to be: pure, uncrowded, and full of heart. The snow is bottomless, the people are kind, and the vibe is authentic. It’s not about being seen—it’s about the turns you’ll still be thinking about months later.