[RESORT REVIEW] Snow King Resort Jackson Hole WY

The polar vortex has come and gone, and with it the reminder that winter is only fun when you get out and chase that powder (as opposed to getting stuck inside…there is nothing worse than being forced to watch the snow fall without any sign of adventure in sight!). One of our very favorite ski towns is Jackson Hole, Wyoming where the elk and moose roam free and the mountains are intensely steep and deep.

The powder is fresh, the people incredibly hospitable and the food scene is something out of San Francisco – surprisingly innovative and delicious. But there is one place in particular that is a must visit whether you fly in for a backcountry adventure weekend or if you’re looking for a luxurious spa week — or, best case scenario, both. That’s where the Snow King Resort comes in.

Nestled at the edge of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the base of Snow King Mountain, Snow King Resort Hotel is a home away from home in historic downtown Jackson and your gateway to two of America’s most beloved national parks. Grand Teton National Park lies just 20 minutes north, with Yellowstone another 30 to 40 minutes further.

A renovated bedroom at the Snow King Resort with stunning views of the Tetons
A renovated bedroom at the Snow King Resort with stunning views of the Tetons

The iconic 204-room Snow King Hotel in Jackson Hole, Wyoming just completed a major $17 million renovation of its rooms, meetings space, exterior, public space, spa and salon. The revamp also included the launch of a new restaurant, Hayden’s Post, and the addition of a year-round Activity Center, state-of-the-art Business Center and Fitness Room. This was the first major renovation in the property’s 36-year history.

The renovation has been a huge project since December 2012 and while the resort always had great service and a great location (with it’s own local ski slope!), the new updates have resulted in a truly stunning experience. Crisp bedding, luxurious mattresses, New Generation pillows and soothing finishes make for a sumptuous tucking in, and the full-service business center is matched only by the professional staff.

The recently revamped Haydens Post is a basecamp and gathering place for locals and travelers alike
The recently revamped Haydens Post is the heart of the Snow King, a basecamp and gathering place for locals and travelers alike

Inspired by local traditions of ranching and game hunting, the new Hayden’s Post restaurant at Snow King offers a sophisticated yet approachable menu of Mountain West regional cuisine served in a lively atmosphere with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Evoking a sense of authenticity, Hayden’s Post Executive Chef Scott Blackerby is dedicated to keeping his menu as locally-sourced as possible, with seasonal updates to maximize the bounty of ingredients available at farmer’s markets, via local purveyors and artisans in Jackson Hole, as well as the greater Western U.S. region.

New guest amenities now include a year-round Activity Center fully-staffed and managed by partner Hoback Sports and offering ski, snowboard, mountain bike and other rentals, as well as information on nearby trails, hikes and the plethora of outdoor activities offered immediately surrounding the hotel and in the Jackson Hole area. The ‘Town Hill” slopes directly behind Snow King make it a serious winter wonderland complete with an outdoor hockey rink.

There’s also the ice climbing ‘playground’ where you can swing your tools and warm up before heading out into the backcountry for an epic M 13 or for any newbies to make the transition to ice and get comfortable with your crampons with some super fun top roping – remember, there’s plenty to do in Jackson Hole off-slope and you’ll definitely need to book a spa treatment for the next day…muscles you never knew existed will start crying in the best, I can climb mountains sort of way.

Book a flight this weekend while the snow is fresh and the slopes inviting – it’s worth it!
Snow King Mountain just celebrated it's 75th birthday!
Snow King Mountain just celebrated it’s 75th birthday!