What to Pack For a Jackson Hole Ski Trip in Wyoming
What to Pack For a Cold but Cozy Ski Trip in Jackson Hole
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Prior to my recent trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, I had skied one time in my life. And after I re-learned the basics in a two-hour lesson in Jackson Hole, I remembered how much I loved going down the mountain. Much like running, my beloved form of exercise, skiing requires a certain endurance and determination to succeed. The intense thrill I get as I progress with more difficult hills feels similar to a runner's high.
So, after donning my warmest gear (more on that below), taking some adventurous dips down the mountain, and enjoying my first après-ski session, I've decided on doing an annual Jackson Hole ski trip moving forward.
Ahead, read all about my experience, including tips on what to pack and where to find the best margarita.
Best Packing Tips For Jackson Hole
The winter climate in Jackson Hole averages between five degrees and 33 degrees Fahrenheit. However, during the week I was there, temperatures dropped as low as -21 degrees Fahrenheit. You might experience high winds and lots of snow, so I suggest packing a good pair of sunglasses that block out the elements and a sturdy pair of boots for traipsing around in the powder. For skiing, make sure you have (or can rent) the fundamentals: insulated pants or bib, a snow jacket, gloves or mittens, goggles, and a helmet.
In addition to alpine skiing, I also did cross-country skiing through Grand Teton National Park. This was actually a bit harder than alpine, as you're walking and gliding on flat snow, instead of relying on the momentum of a hill to get you through. Pro-tip: Make sure you have insulated gloves (my favorites are the Stio mitts) as you'll be holding onto your poles the entire time.
What to Do in Jackson Hole
If you're like me and find that skiing increases your appetite, you'll love the après-ski at Mangy Moose, the locals' favorite bar. Here I had nachos, fresh ceviche, empanadas, and an incredible margarita made with Wild Common, my new favorite tequila.
As for nightlife, the square downtown is the best place to go. You can grab some great tacos at Code Red and then get a drink and listen to the live music at Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. For both après-ski and evening fun, you can keep it casual. A lot of skiers wear their gear during après-ski and stick to jeans and a top for night events.
Whatever brings you to this icy city, find out what to include in your carry-on bag in my list of travel essentials for Jackson Hole.
A Trusted No-Cast SPF
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 ($20)
Even though it's winter, make no mistake — sunscreen will be pivotal during your Jackson Hole ski trip. As you zoom down the slopes and explore the cute town, you'll want to reapply sunscreen just as you normally would, every two to three hours. I'm a big fan of the Black-owned Black Girl Sunscreen for its no-cast capabilities and super lightweight texture. I actually brought two of these for my trip: one stayed in my hotel room for slathering on in the morning and the other one was stashed in my purse for regular reapplication.
An Insulated Tumbler
Rovr ChillR 12-ounce Insulated Lowball Tumbler ($25)
During my stay, the temperature got as low as -21 degrees Fahrenheit — the coldest temperature I've ever encountered. I carried this Rovr tumbler with me everywhere and filled it with hot tea throughout the day to ensure I stayed warm. Pro-tip: I took this to après-ski at Mangy Moose and they filled it with hot water for me on the way out.
A Keep-Me-Warm Pair of Socks
Smartwool Everyday Merino Wool Socks ($28)
Whether you plan to ski (I highly recommend Jackson Hole Mountain Resort!) or explore the town shops and eats, these Smartwool socks will make sure your toes are protected from the cold and your body stays warm. Made with merino wool, the socks are moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating. I loved wearing them while skiing, as they easily fit into my boots and kept out the snow as I did run after run.
A Repairing Face Moisturizer
Kate Somerville DeliKate Recovery Cream ($49, originally $78)
With chilling temperatures comes dry skin. To prevent chapping or itchiness, I use Kate Somerville DeliKate Recovery Cream. It glides on smoothly and produces a beautiful glow. It also protects the skin barrier — the organ responsible for keeping out chemicals, microbes, and allergens — which is easily compromised without protection.
A Durable Base Layer
Smartwool Long-Sleeve Merino Wool Thermal Top ($115)
As a second-time skier, I found out that skiing is both a beautiful pastime and a workout. On the slopes, I went from feeling fine to overheating with more and more exertion. Luckily, I had on this Smartwool long-sleeve top, so when I did get too hot, I took off my neck gaiter or coat and felt perfectly warm in 5-degree weather thanks to this base layer.
A Go-To Swimsuit
Bleu by Rod Beattie One-Piece Swimsuit ($119)
When I first checked in to SpringHill Suites, I was surprised to see people enjoying the outdoor jacuzzi in the frigid winter air. After speaking to some locals, this seems to be a common hotel offering, as the warm water helps soothe muscles after a long day of skiing and snowboarding. I highly suggest bringing a swimsuit to enjoy a much-deserved soak — it's the perfect way to unwind and gives extra TLC to your sore muscles for proper recovery.
Fashion-Forward Ski Goggles
Smith Squad ChromaPop™ Low Bridge Snow Goggles ($125)
Without these Smith goggles, I would have been inundated with snow, strong winds, and blinding sun rays. The glasses have ventilating and anti-fog technology, and the ultrawide silicone-backed strap fit perfectly in my matching helmet and felt great on my face. Although I didn't do any night skiing, I could have used these goggles then, too, as they allow you to easily switch from light to dark lenses.
A Convenient Fitness Tracker
Apple Watch Series 10 Smartwatch ($329, originally $399)
I am obsessed with tracking my steps and my Apple Watch is the easiest way to do this. The watch also has a ski activity tag, so I was able to log all my ski days as well.
A Heavy-Duty Suitcase
Thule Aion Spinner Carry-On ($350)
When packing for Jackson Hole, you'll want to bring your warmest coats, layers, and ski gear. I loved having this sturdy Thule suitcase that has ample pockets for smaller essentials and a softer outer lining that allows you to pack a lot more than you can fit into hard-shell suitcases. I also appreciated the strong wheels that got through snow with ease.
A Warm Ski Bib
Stio Women's Environ Bib ($459)
This durable Stio bib kept all the snow, sleet, and wind out of my outfit. The waterproof getup fits well over a base layer and features an outseam venting to help with temperature control.
A Durable Memory-Keeper
Insta360 Waterproof 8K 360 Action Camera ($500)
Capturing the content of my first Jackson Hole trip was high on my to-do list throughout the week. And because I knew each activity would involve snow, I brought my waterproof Insta360 with me. I was excited to get 360-degree videos of my time on the gondola, slopes, and town square. The small but mighty camera was the ideal gadget for my trip.
Powerful Ski Boots
K2 Cortex 125 W Zonal Boa® Women's Ski Boots ($900)
Every resort in Jackson Hole offers boot rentals, but if you plan to take up skiing, investing in your own pair is the way to go. These boots were by far the coolest part of my ski outfit and they made me feel unstoppable on the mountain. As a beginner, I wanted to make sure I felt comfortable and secure in the snow. The Boa® Fit System made it easy to adjust the fit and ensured equal pressure across the entire boot. Three hours into skiing, I didn't feel any pressure points or pinching. And in the afternoon, when I did get a little fatigued, I loosened the zonal control wrap to have a looser grip on my toe cap.
Natasha Marsh (she/her) is a freelance writer who writes about fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Prior to freelancing, she held styling staff positions at The Wall Street Journal, Burberry, Cosmopolitan, British GQ, and Harper's Bazaar.
