How to Navigate the Bus with Skis Like a Local

Take a tip from a local, and take the bus. There’s no real need to drive to the mountain here in Jackson, thanks to the extensive START Bus service that runs between Teton Village and the town of Jackson. You can do that directly from town, or leave your car at Wilson’s Village Transit Center (aka the Stilson Park & Ride) and take the free bus to the resort. You won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot, and the bus drops you off 100 feet from the Tram. After a long day on the hill, riding the START bus is a great way to unwind after a day of skiing–pop in some headphones and catch up on your favorite podcast, or make a friend with your neighbor. However, to keep things running smoothly here’s a few local’s tips to ensure your own comfort and safety–and that of those around you.

Keep it Courteous

The bus at 4pm can be a crowded affair, filled with frothing groms, out-of-town visitors, and local resort workers heading home after a long shift. Keep it courteous when you’re aboard. Don’t spill that half-eaten granola bar all over the seats, and consider giving up your seat to that tired 9-year-old who just had so much fun skiing powder she can’t even stand up anymore.

Know the Schedule

In addition to hotel shuttles and private shuttles, there are two public bus lines that run regularly between Teton Village: the Teton Village Local and Teton Village Express. The Local makes stops on the West Bank in Wilson, whereas the Express runs straight to town, with a stop at the Village Transit Center. Buses run every 10-20 minutes and schedules are usually posted at all bus stops.

Check here for up-to-date maps and schedules.

Use the Transit App

Sometimes, the bus might get delayed, due to traffic, construction, or inclement weather. If you want the most up-to-date info on where your bus might be, START now uses the Transit App. You can purchase bus fares through the app and simply tap your phone when you get onboard.

Buckle Your Boots

It might be tempting to take your boots off after a day of skiing, or at least unbuckle them when riding the bus–but know that you’re just creating a trip hazard here. Do everyone else on the bus a favor, and keep your boot buckles out of the way. Nobody wants to hurt themselves on the way home from the mountain.

Strap Your Skis and Poles

Just like packing into the Tram on a powder day, it’s wise to strap your poles and skis together to keep a tight ship with your gear when on the bus. Using a ski strap, you can strap your poles to the side of your bindings (tips down, please!) to create a neat little package. Then, you’ve got a free hand to hold onto a handrail or help out a fellow passenger with their gear.

Thank The Driver

Finally, START bus drivers work their tails off to get us all to and from the mountain, while we get to play. Take a second and say thanks to your driver when you’re getting off the bus! We promise that they appreciate it.

Take Advantage of Seasonal Bus Services

During the winter season, two extra bus services run you might want to take advantage of. First, Grand Targhee offers a bus that runs from Jackson Hole to Grand Targhee Resort (on the west side of the Tetons). Want to explore the areas other destination ski resort, but don’t want to drive? Hop board the Ride GTR shuttle–you can even bundle a lift ticket purchase with the bus fare.

START Bus is reinstating its Airport Shuttle Program from December 14, 2024, through April 13, 2025. Buses will depart hourly from the Miller Park transit hub starting at 5:00 am, with the last bus at 9:00 am. Return service from the airport will leave hourly from 5:40 am until 9:40 pm (the last bus will wait until 10 pm to accommodate late travelers). This service connects to four stops in town and is designed to reduce local traffic and emissions. Riders can use the Transit App to purchase tickets and track buses, enhancing convenience for both locals and visitors.