Top 3 Reasons to Plan a Winter Vacation in Teton Valley

If you’re planning a winter getaway, Teton Valley is the place to be! In addition to jaw-dropping scenic mountain views, we’ve got extensive winter trail systems, world-class ski resorts, and unique fun festivals and events that make southeast Idaho the hot spot for a very cool getaway. 

Winter Sports Galore

With jaw-dropping views of the Grand Tetons to the east and the Big Hole Mountains to the west, Victor and Driggs offer every winter sport you can imagine with a side of stunning scenery for unforgettable memories. 

Nordic Skiing, Snowshoeing and Fat Bikes: Teton Valley Trails and Pathways maintains hundreds of miles of groomed Nordic ski trails in Teton Canyon, Alta, Pioneer Park in Victor, Teton Springs Resort, and the Driggs Nordic Track that can be used for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing and fat biking – all of which are free for public use. 

Grand Targhee Resort: Located on the western slope of the Grand Teton Range just northeast of Driggs is Grand Targhee Resort, home of 2022 Olympic silver medalist Jaelin Kauf. This popular resort offers Nordic skiing, fat biking, cat skiing, guided backcountry tours and plenty of après ski as well. Think hot toddies and cocoa, or tacos and local brews, while watching the action on the slopes as you sit near a warm fire. 

Snowmobiling: If you love cutting through fresh powder and spending the day exploring mountain ranges on snowmobiles, this is the place to be! For snowmobile rentals, check out Teton Valley Adventures, located in Driggs. They offer tours ranging from locally in the Big Hole Mountains to Mesa Falls (where you can see fish spawning and moose in the forests), to Yellowstone National Park. If you’ve visiting Teton Valley in the past during the summer, seeing it from a snowmobile is a totally different experience and one you should definitely try. 

If you’re bringing in your own machines, or want to rent them and go out on your own, be sure to check in with the Caribou-Targhee National Forest Service office on the south end of Driggs for permits, maps, and local advise on the best places to go. 

Winter activities

If you’re looking for a more low-key and classic winter experience, there’s nothing better than a sleigh ride! Check out Linn Canyon Ranch and take in the spectacular views of the Teton Mountains as you dash through snow-covered fields. After your sleigh ride, warm up by the fire with a cup of cocoa back at the ranch. They also offer dinners on many evenings at the ranch. Be sure to call ahead for reservations at they book up early.  

Another great way to spend a winter day here in Teton Valley is touring our local shops and restaurants. Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Provisions in Driggs or Butter in Victor, then stroll Driggs main street to visit our many shops. One more great place to visit is MD Nursery, just south of Driggs, which features a large gift shop area filled with fun things for all ages and tastes and a mini coffee shop with treats for kids and adults. 

Winter Festivals & Special Events 

Snowscapes Festival: January in Driggs brings the world-famous Snowscapes Ice and Snow sculpting event. Artists from around the world join locals as they transform large blocks of snow into sculptures creating around each year’s theme. Visitors can watch the sculptors work all week long, then participate in the voting and celebrations culminating in a Snow Ball at the end of the week. You can find details, dates, and lots of photos from past festivals at downtowndriggs.org/snowscapes or on Facebook at facebook.com/DriggsSnowScapes.

The Grand Showdown – Teton Valley Skijouring: A unique event that features teams consisting of a horse and rider pulling a skier or snowboarder, skijouring is quickly gaining popularity in the West as an exciting and fun sport that you just have to see. Held in Driggs, the Grand Showdown features teams that travel in from across the nation to compete in this highly competitive sport. The next event will be held on Feb 24-25 in 2024 and you can find more information at tetonskijor.org.

World Championship Jackson Hole Snowmobile Hill Climb: In nearby Jackson, Snow King Mountain Resort cohosts the World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb with the Jackson Hole Snow Devils. This annual event draws nearly 10,000 spectators watching snowmobilers racing up a steep, narrow course to the summit of Snow King, which rises 1,500 vertical feet above the town of Jackson. Concession stands crowd the base of the mountain and snowmobile companies turn out to showcase the latest snowmobile gear. More info and photos can be seen at snowdevils.org.

American Dog Derby: North of Teton Valley, you can make a stop in Ashton to check out the American Dog Derby. Starting in 1917, this is the oldest dog sled race in the US and is held each year on the third weekend of February. More info can be found at americandogderby.com.

The best places to stay in winter in Teton Valley

The best vacation starts with a great home base, so when you plan your winter trip to Teton Valley, keep these activities in mind and check out our website to see the beautiful winter vacation rentals we offer. There are lots of lodges where you can stay in Driggs and Victor, but the best way to make your trip unforgettable is to set up your own basecamp with the privacy and amenities you want, creating an excellent place to call home for the week (or weekend!)