Ski Patrol

WE RECOMMEND THAT BACKCOUNTRY TRAVELERS HAVE THE APPROPRIATE EQUIPMENT, KNOWLEDGE, A PARTNER, AND A PLAN. IF YOU DON'T KNOW, DON'T GO.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has seven backcountry access gates which provide recreational access to areas outside the ski area operational boundary. Three of the gates access terrain to the South of the ski area, on the National Forest, and the other four access Grand Teton National Park. Much of this terrain has cliffs and steep avalanche prone slopes. None of the ski patrol services available within the ski area are evident outside the boundary. The primary responsibility for rescue in these areas is the backcountry traveler themselves. Additional rescue support is provided by Teton County Search and Rescue (when the rescue is on the Bridger-Teton National Forest) and Grand Teton National Park. The ski patrol trains with these other agencies, and will often assist with these rescues, although our primary duty is to the in-bounds areas.

We erect and maintain directional signs and identify and mark hazards where appropriate. Please observe all area closures. It may not be evident why an area is closed, but terrain can be closed for a variety of reasons.

The Jackson Hole Patrol Dogs are the hardest working canines in the valley. Day in and day out they work alongside ski patrol practicing search and rescue techniques. More than just members of the patrol, these dogs are family members of the patrollers who take care of them. Their individual personalities run wild until playtime is over and work begins.