Teton Valley: Your guide to Idaho’s tranquil winter wonderland
16 Feb 2022
Winter/Spring 21-22
Written By: Evie Carrick | Images: Courtesy Idaho Tourism
With everything revolving around Jackson and Teton Village, it can be easy to forget about what lies on the other side of the Tetons — which is exactly how the people who live in Teton Valley like it.
The valley, which falls on the Idaho side of the mountains, enjoys similar mountain views with noticeably fewer crowds. And just like Jackson, Wilson, Teton Valley, and Moose, the string of towns found in Teton Valley each offer something different and distinct to those who live there and those traveling through.VICTOR
Just over 30 minutes west of Jackson in the neighboring state of Idaho is Victor, the largest town in the Teton Valley with a population of just over 2,000. With foothills to the south, east, and west, it’s not hard to get up in the mountains, but Victor has plenty going on right in town. Head to Sherman Park and swing by a public skate session at Kotler Ice Arena (rental skates available) or rent a pair of skinny skis and try out the park’s Nordic trails. For a special evening out, book a sleigh ride tour and gourmet dinner at Linn Canyon Ranch. No matter where your time in Victor takes you, make sure to stop by Grand Teton Brewing Company for a beer (or two) and get to know the locals.DRIGGS
A 10-minute drive due north from Victor brings you to Driggs, a town with a Western-style Main Street set against the backdrop of the Tetons. The Downtown Driggs Association keeps things buzzing, with an annual snow sculpture contest featuring the area’s best snow sculptors that’s followed by the Snow Ball — your chance to catch locals dressed in their best (or wackiest) duds dancing the evening away to live music.
TETONIA
Another 10 minutes north of Driggs brings you to Tetonia, a tiny town with big mountain views. Grab a bite at the Badger Creek Cafe (try the chicken and waffles) an then bring a thermos of hot chocolate to the open-air Tetonia Ice Rink — a great place for stargazing.ALTA
Midway between Driggs and Tetonia on the Wyoming side of the border is the town of Alta. While the town may be small (in population and size) it’s home to some big snow — each winter the renowned Grand Targhee Resort enjoys around 500 inches of natural snow. A true skier’s paradise, you can enjoy the resort’s 2,600 acres of lift-accessed and hikable terrain or get your powder fix with a little cat skiing.
