Snow King Summit Trail

Dogs Leashed

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Established in 1939, Snow King Resort is the oldest ski hill in Wyoming. This is surprising, as the "local hill" also has some very steep top to bottom ski runs, some sections exceeding 45 degrees. The standard trail to the top, Summit Trail, mostly follows a steep resort road. Although bland sounding, the road mostly stays in the shade and offers stunning views of the town of Jackson, Jackson Hole Valley, and the Tetons. To descend, go back the way you came or pay to take the gondola down.

The Summit Trail begins to the right of the gondola. Locate the steep road that seems to ascend straight up the lower slope, and take the singletrack that quickly breaks left. The trail will cross under the gondola into some trees, where the trail grade eases for a switchback. Out of the trees, the trail continues to climb, switchbacking up the steep north face of Snow King. When there are intersecting roads, take the steeper one. Finally after many long switchbacks, the road ascends the ridge to the top of the gondola.

The views are spectacular for the entire hike. Looking north, the town of Jackson lies below with Jackson Hole valley extending out north. You can see Flat Creek meander its way into town from the valley. The mighty Snake River cuts below the Tetons, running around Snow King to the west. The Gros Ventre Mountains rise less aggressively in the east, displaying a sharp contrast to the Tetons across the valley.