January in Jackson Hole: When Winter Turns On
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Ask any local what their favorite month is in Jackson Hole, and chances are you'll hear "January" more than any other answer.
While December brings holiday excitement and March serves up spring skiing, January is when winter settles in and gets serious—in the best possible way.
The Snow Totals Don’t Lie
Let’s talk numbers. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort averages around 86 inches of snowfall in January alone at Rendezvous Bowl. That’s over seven feet of the cold, dry powder that legends are made of. Some years it’s even better—January 2020 delivered a record-breaking 169 inches (that’s 14 feet), and in 2024.
Over Teton Pass on the western slope of the range just outside of Driggs, Idaho, Grand Targhee averages over 500 inches annually—yes, you read that right. The resort has never received less than 58 inches of snow in January since records began in 1976. That’s the kind of consistency powder hounds dream about. Targhee’s position on the west side means it catches storms first, and with smaller crowds, fresh tracks stick around all day.
December and January are historically the snowiest months in the Tetons, and that consistent snowfall means you’re not gambling on conditions—you’re stepping into peak winter, when the entire mountain is in its prime. Base depths build throughout the month of December, coverage gets deeper and more forgiving in January, and those mid-winter storm cycles deliver the kind of powder days that make you rethink your entire life plan.
January Deals That Make It Even Sweeter
All three Teton County ski resorts are rolling out January promotions that make this already-incredible month an even better value. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a brand-new January Pass—unlimited access for all 31 days of January 2026 for $1,550, with zero blackout dates and no restrictions. JHMR also offers up to 35% savings when you purchase lift tickets 14+ days in advance, and their Golden Ticket program gives season passholders from any resort worldwide 50% off single-day lift tickets during select January dates (Jan 5-16).
Grand Targhee sweetens the deal with 25% off lodging when you book a 7-night stay, and Mountain Collective passholders get 15-20% off slopeside accommodations for 2-3 night stays. With Targhee’s legendary 500+ inches of annual snowfall and smaller crowds, those savings go even further. Multi-day ticket packages offer additional discounts—the more days you ski, the more you save.
Snow King Mountain, Jackson’s original ski area right in town, keeps things accessible with full-day adult tickets at $95 and junior tickets at $60. Season pass holders get reciprocal benefits at 45+ resorts across the Rocky Mountain West through the Powder Alliance. Plus, Snow King’s night skiing runs until 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, giving you extra hours on snow. With three resorts offering unique deals and experiences, January in Jackson Hole delivers world-class skiing without breaking the bank.
The Action Heats Up
January in Jackson Hole isn’t just about skiing powder—it’s when the valley’s energy peaks with events that draw visitors from around the world.
Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest (January 26-28, 2026) transforms Teton Village into a three-day celebration where mountain cuisine meets world-class wines. It’s the perfect excuse to combine epic skiing days with elevated dining experiences—because après isn’t just about beer and nachos here. Cooking demos, wine tastings, and dinners prepared by top chefs make this a highlight of the winter season.
You’ll find weekly live music and entertainment that keeps the valley’s energy high. Bluegrass Tuesdays at the Silver Dollar Showroom in the Wort Hotel have been bringing locals and visitors together for over 15 years with One Ton Pig (voted “Best Band” in Jackson Hole). The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar hosts live music Monday through Saturday nights, and the Virginian Saloon offers Industry Nights every Monday with bingo, trivia, and surprise events.
Demo days happen throughout January too. Try the latest ski and snowboard gear from top brands like Rossignol at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, giving you the chance to test equipment before you buy while taking advantage of prime January conditions.
Getting Here Is Easier Than You Think
One of Jackson Hole’s best-kept secrets? It’s remarkably accessible. Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) sits right inside Grand Teton National Park—the only commercial airport in the U.S. located within a national park. The approach alone is worth the trip, with the Tetons filling your window as you descend.
With nonstop flights from 13 major cities including Denver, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Atlanta, Seattle, and even Newark, you can leave a major metro area in the morning and be on the slopes by afternoon. The airport is just 9 miles from downtown Jackson and 20 miles from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, making it one of the most convenient ski destinations in the Rockies.
The JH Air Credit sweetens the pot even more, offering travelers significant savings (up to $500/person in Janurary!) when booking round-trip flights, lodging, and a qualifying activity through Jackson Hole Resort Reservations.
And here’s the kicker: flights tend to increase during peak winter season, meaning you’ve got more options and better schedules in January than you might find during shoulder seasons.
The Bottom Line
The snow is deep, the flights are direct, and the mountains are calling. What are you waiting for?
Ready to plan your January escape? Check out our Stay Wild Guide for insider tips, and everything you need to make the most of winter in Jackson Hole.
By Visit Jackson Hole