Since the 1999-2000 season, JHMR has allowed skiers and snowboarders to exit the ski area boundary via gates along the perimeter. Not only is this practice unprecedented for ski resorts in the US, but it allows access to thousands of acres of backcountry skiing. Experience our world class terrain with European style off-piste access by hiring a Backcountry Guide to show you the way and teach you how to travel safely in the backcountry.

We offer personalized guiding services for advanced skiers and riders who wish to discover untracked slopes, secret runs, and the best snow conditions Jackson Hole has to offer. The experience is one that can be made up of touring, hiking, snow science, mountaineering, and downhill riding. All of which you and your guide can personalize to meet your needs. 

We pride our selves on safe skiing and traveling skills, education, long runs, and the desire to keep skiing. Our guides make up some of the worlds strongest backcountry skiers and educators. Together we have skied and climbed all over the world, from pioneering first descents in Alaska to the steeps of the Grand Teton. If you decide to ski out of bounds you will learn to use an avalanche transceiver and how to safely travel in a group, while turning in the best snow of the day. Our staff is skilled at the art of guiding and teaching. If you wish to learn more, consider attending one of the Backcountry Camps .

A Typical Backcountry Guided Day                     Our Guides               Equipment Needs

Clients will start their day with any early lift to our mid mountain station via the Gondola. Once the mountain is cleared to open, the beacon practice is fulfilled,  the days route plan is reviewed, clients and guide will make their way to the top of the mountain where our Backcountry Gates border the ski area boundary. From here the Backcountry experience begins. Depending on the clients’ desires, the snow stability, and weather, the days make up can consist of a variety of options. An average backcountry day consists of skiing over 12,000 vertical feet, some hiking/ skinning, and some tools to further ones backcountry awareness. Clients will carry their own gear, provided by the guide, also have equipment that allows for cold temps and sun exposure. The daily schedule consists of 8:30 gondola and back in bounds by no later then 4pm.

We also offer guided trips to Teton Pass if you are really looking to get away from the resort. Teton Pass is renowned for being some of the most accessible backcountry skiing in America, and with an abundance of moderate slopes it is great terrain for the intermediate powder skier. Whether you explore our in-bounds terrain, take a tour from the top of the Rendezvous Mountain or Teton Pass, our highly qualified guide staff will provide a safe, fun, and educational experience. Maximize your Jackson Hole Mountain Resort visit and hire a Backcountry Guide.

Reservations recommended. 

Backcountry Guide Semi-Private
In order to meet the needs of skiers and riders who want to get out and experience Jackson Hole’s best lift-accessed backcountry skiing with the security and training that the Alpine Guides offer, JH Mountain Sports School’s guides will now be signing up clients on a semi-private basis. Groups will meet at the back dock of the Tram, ride up to Corbet’s Cabin, review safety protocols and avalanche avoidance and response before venturing into JH’s vast backcountry terrain to the south of the resort. Whether you’re into a high alpine experience like climbing Cody Peak, or hiking over a few drainages to get to more untracked lines, the semi-private is an affordable way to check out what the guides have to offer. You’ll have the chance to learn some new routes, check out the snowpack, search for beacons, and practice safe group travel.

The product is competitively priced to meet the needs of individuals without backcountry travel partners, and lasts for six hours (three if only one signs up). The price of $200 per person or $260 with a lift ticket includes beacon, shovel and pack. Guests are responsible for their own food and drink, and should be able to ski black diamond terrain with relative ease. Backcountry offerings necessarily entail some element of risk, and all participants must sign a waiver.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Am I good enough to ski the backcountry at Jackson Hole?
Can you ski in variable snow conditions?  Can you ski trees?  How's your traversing ability? If you can do these things, you are good enough to go backcountry.

2. Can I bring my children?
They need to be older then ten years old and able to ski all mountain conditions, plus be accompanied by an adult.

3. Do I need touring equipment?
Not necessary, but equipment can add to your experience and options.

4. What is the terrain like?
We offer a wide variety of terrain, including bowls, ramps, chutes, and alpine peaks.

5. What shape do I need to be in to do this?
The better shape you are in the more you will get out of it. If you can do a 30 min stationary bike or 2 mile run you are in shape to go backcountry. Doing some form of aerobic exercise 3 times a week is recommended to improve your experience.

6. Can I practice somewhere with a transceiver?
Beacon Basin, at the base of Rendeazvous Bowl is a designated area where you can search for pre-buried signals.

Reservations & Cancellation Policy
Reservations are suggested for private lessons. A credit card is required to secure the booking. Reservations must be cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled lesson time. If notification of a cancellation is received after the 24 hour mark has passed, you will be responsible for the instructor's time. We will put the instructor on priority to be re-booked; however, any instructor time which was unable to be re-booked will be charged to your credit card.
Please call 1-800-450-0477 or 307-739-2663 or e-mail mountainsports@jacksonhole.com for more information.

When going into the backcountry, always be prepared.
Always check the Bridger-Teton National Forest Backcountry Avalanche Hazard & Weather Forecast .
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort neither encourages nor discourages backcountry touring. Skiers/snowboarders crossing out of the JHMR boundaries do so at their own risk. Read the posted signs at the designated access gates before proceeding.