The Skiers' Guide to Grand Targhee Resort

Located on the western side of the Tetons in Wyoming, Grand Targhee is one of the most snow-blessed resorts in North America. It may not be the easiest place to reach, but those who make the journey are rewarded with consistent powder conditions and breathtaking mountain views. The resort sits at an impressive altitude, with a top elevation of 3023.62m and a base at 2392.98m.

Grand Targhee has earned itself a reputation as a powder paradise, while maintaining a distinctly local vibe. Our Snomad users have awarded the resort an overall rating of 4.65/5, and it's particularly celebrated for its Powder offerings (4.85/5) and off-piste opportunities (4.76/5).

One Snomad community member, Paul, describes it simply as "powder heaven. Quiet and only about the skiing, it is the most breathtakingly beautiful place."

With 95 runs serviced by 5 chairlifts (now all high-speed according to recent reviewers), Grand Targhee delivers a surprising variety of terrain across its modest footprint. The mountain consistently receives exceptional snowfall, creating ideal conditions for all ability levels.

Beginners will find Grand Targhee particularly accommodating, with the resort scoring 5.00/5 for beginners. The wide, uncrowded slopes provide an ideal learning environment.

Intermediate skiers have plenty to enjoy too, with the resort rated 4.50/5 for intermediates. Maeryn, an intermediate skier in our community, notes there's "great run selection for all levels and some great off-piste and powder options. Great mountain to explore."

Advanced and expert skiers will discover a playground of tree runs (4.52/5), challenging terrain, and endless powder stashes. Tyson, an advanced snowboarder, shares: "I was able to find powder stashes among tree runs. Glades with rollers and fun terrain."

The resort has also been expanding its terrain park offerings, with Bryson noting "They have done a great job expanding the park the last few years." The resort scores 3.55/5 for snow parks, but with dedicated fans like Liv who mentions the "Super fun parks for all levels."

Grand Targhee scores 3.48/5 for eating out. While on-mountain dining options are somewhat limited, the quality and value receive positive mentions. Jim notes the "reasonable food prices," which is a refreshing change from many resorts.

The base area pub receives praise from Tyson, who mentions it had "great food and drink options for lunch and Après." For more dining variety, the nearby town of Driggs offers excellent options. As Tyson continues, "The nearby town of Driggs had excellent food. Gastro pubs to amazing curry, every dinner my group had was great."

Canon mentions resort food being "overpriced but where is it not overpriced?" - a fair point for most ski destinations!

The après scene at Grand Targhee scores 4.06/5 for après-ski. While not known as a party destination, the resort offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere for post-ski drinks and socializing.

The base lodge pub stands out as the main après venue, with Tyson noting it had "great food and drink options for lunch and Après." The focus here is more on quality than quantity, with a laid-back vibe that perfectly complements a day spent on uncrowded slopes.

Aidan, who moved to work at the resort, mentions "the vibes here are pretty unmatched," reflecting the friendly, unpretentious atmosphere that characterises the Grand Targhee experience.

Grand Targhee truly excels as a family destination, earning an impressive 4.72/5 for family friendliness. The combination of uncrowded slopes, excellent learning terrain, and friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for family ski holidays.

The resort's ski school receives high marks, with Jim describing it as a "TOP NOTCH ski and snowboard school for all ages." Ashley appreciates the "base lodge and family friendly feel," while Cathy emphasizes there is "great children/adult learning terrain!"

Braden sums it up well: "Grand Targhee is the perfect small town resort... It's great for families, students, and individuals looking to get away from it all and enjoy sliding."

Several users mention the relatively quiet slopes, which is a significant advantage when skiing with children. The resort's manageable size also means it's easier to keep track of family members across different ability levels.

Grand Targhee receives 3.94/5 for accommodation options. While not offering the vast range of some larger resorts, the quality of what's available receives praise.

Canon describes the lodging as "superb," adding that "the employees are helpful and understanding." The resort features a mix of on-mountain accommodations that provide convenient slope access.

For those seeking more options, the nearby towns provide additional choices. The convenience of slopeside accommodation is a significant advantage for families and those who prioritize maximizing their time on the mountain.

Cathy simply states there is "great on-site accommodation," reinforcing the quality of the options available directly at the resort.

Grand Targhee has taken steps toward environmental responsibility, with free public transit up and down the mountain mentioned by Aidan, reducing the carbon footprint from vehicle traffic. The resort's relatively compact development footprint also helps minimize environmental impact compared to more sprawling destinations.

Some users note the authentic, less commercial feel of the resort, suggesting a more sustainable approach to mountain development. While specific environmental initiatives aren't widely mentioned in user reviews, the resort's focus on preserving its natural character and powder conditions indicates an awareness of environmental stewardship.

As with many smaller resorts, Grand Targhee appears to balance development with preservation of the mountain environment that makes it special.