Improvements / Construction
2023 CONSTRUCTION UPDATES
Construction work that occurred in 2023 includes:
- Completion of Observatory & Planaterium.
- Continued work on Summit Building.
- Hydroseeding and revegetation work.
- Relocation of demo zip to Rafferty Area.
- New multi-use gathering space at summit.
- Potable water and sewer connections to summit.
- Bootpack Trail Improvements
2022 CONSTRUCTION UPDATES
Snow King Mountain undertook a number of improvement projects during the summer of 2022 to further upgrade the visitor experience. Accomplishments during the summer 2022 construction season include:
– New snowmaking, sewer, and gas lines to summit.
– New patrol shack at the top of the Cougar lift.
– New Cover for summit conveyor.
– New surface tow at summit ridge.
– Hydroseeding of the Way Home Road.
– New tunnel for the Alpine Slide.
– Kelly’s Alley & Towers ski runs enhancements.
– Utility improvements at base of gondola.
– Landscaping at base of gondola.
– Summit building construction progress.
– Observatory and Planetarium construction work.
NEW SUMMIT RESTAURANT & GUEST SERVICES
Snow King Mountain is currently under construction on a new lodge facility at the summit of the mountain. Summit facilities will be updated to include a bar and restaurant with expansive decks and a rooftop deck for dining with breathtaking views of the Grand Tetons, the National Elk Refuge, and the town of Jackson. In addition to the new bar and restaurant, guest service facilities will include public restrooms, a space for Snow King Ski School, summer activities facilities, and a ski patrol building. This building is anticipated to be completed in 2024.
OBSERVATORY & PLANETARIUM
The observatory and planetarium is now open for daily operations. The observatory has a 24-foot AstroHaven dome and a 1.0-meter PlaneWave telescope. The telescope is one of the largest state-of-the-art telescopes in the world dedicated primarily to public outreach. The facility will also include an 8-meter planetarium dome with a 37-seat capacity, a classroom and theater space, galleries with interactive exhibits, and event space. The facility will be an iconic science learning center in the Rocky Mountain West.
GONDOLA NOW IN OPERATION!
Snow King’s brand-new, 8-passenger Leitner-Poma gondola is perfect for hauling all your gear up the mountain in the winter and gives visitors easy access to the summit to enjoy a picnic in the summer! The most spectacular views of the Grand Tetons, the National Elk Refuge, and the town of Jackson can be seen as you make your way to the top of the mountain, and be sure to take in the 360-degree sights once you get there. Our gondi ascends 1,571 feet above sea level with a total length of 3,500 feet and will get you to the summit in just under 5 minutes.
BACKSIDE SKI AREA
Take the new gondi to the summit and enjoy even more of Snow King Mountain! With approximately 100 acres of new intermediate ski terrain, the backside of the mountain is a perfect place to spread out the fun. Enjoy the ride down approximately 12 verticle feet of skiing and snowboarding to access the Sunnyside lift and make the journey all over again! This area also boasts excellent views of the Grand Teton range, as well as 360-degree views of the Bridger Teton National Forest to the south.
BEGINNER TEACHING ZONE
AT THE SUMMIT
The summit at Snow King Mountain is always improving! We’ve added two new Magic Carpets so visitors can practice on one beginner and one advanced while taking in the amazing views. Start on the beginner Magic Carpet to practice the basics, then progress to the advanced Magic Carpet to practice twists and turns, then make your way down the mountain! Parents can also ride up the brand-new gondola and enjoy watching their kids learn to ski or snowboard in the dedicated beginner zone, then experience the ease of riding the gondi back down the mountain. While you’re up there, enjoy a warm beverage by the fireplace at the Panorama House or stretch your legs and take a stroll in the springtime!
STEEPEST ZIPLINE IN NORTH AMERICA NOW OPEN!
Come experience North America’s steepest zip line going down the face of Snow King Mountain while you take in views of Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons. Each of the three sections has two lines so you can enjoy this thrilling experience with family and friends! Start at the beginner section at the top to test your confidence and skill including cool views where your family can take photos and watch you learn. Then take the leap off to the steepest span with speeds up to 60 mph traveling at a 36% grade. Finally, ride down the final span over the Cowboy Coaster and land at the base of the mountain at a grade of 31% traveling a total of 1,275 feet! The entire experience includes the ride up on the gondola, training, and the ride down, taking approximately 2 hours round-trip. A maximum rider weight of 260 pounds is allowed.