Those seeking a skiing adventure can double their pleasure at Jackson Hole Ski Resort.  Located outside of the quaint Teton Village area, the area includes over 2,500 acres of in-bound terrain, with another 3,500 acres of uncontrolled backcountry in both Grand Tetons National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest.  Its most distinctive feature is its two neighboring mountains: the intermediate-termed Apres Vous and the more treacherous Rendezvous, but features 116 other named trails. Of Jackson Hole's runs, between 50 and 70 percent are deemed suitable for experts, while only 10% are feasible for beginners.

The resort got its start in the 1960s, when it was known as Crystal Springs Girl Scout Ranch. In 1963, it was bought by Paul McAllister, a California radio salesperson who came to the area, fell in love, and then founded the Jackson Hole Ski Association.  The Jackson Hole Ski Resort first opened for business for the 1966-67 seasons.

Because of its lower base elevation (6,311 feet) the ski season at Jackson Hole is a bit shorter than at other resorts in the United States, ending its season in the first week of April. However, the resort still boasts about 400 inches of snow per year.  Jackson Hole's signature narrow chute is the 50-degree Corbit's Couloir, a black double-diamond run. This 500-foot-long slope forces a skier to leave the safety of the ground behind with a 20-foot jump.

A new 100-passenger Doppelmayr CTEC, the Aerial Tram, is set to open before the end of 2008. The new lift will travel uphill 4,139 feet at 650 miles per hour.  That's a good thing, considering Jackson Hole Ski Resort has been known to take 12,000 people per hour up into their hills. Other lifts include an 8-passenger high-speed Bridger Gondola, six quad chairlifts, one triple chairlift, and a double chairlift.

Known as Jackson Hole's signature slope, the Rendezvous mountains features glades, bowls, and chutes along with a steep incline to invoke fear among even the most skilled skiers. This 10,450-foot mountain has well-groomed trails and it is easy to find a run that suits your level from the lift.

The smaller of the two mountains, Apres Vous sits at 8,481 feet. The translation for its name means "Lower Mountain" and this easternmost slope at Jackson Hole strives to form its own identity in the wake of its more challenging big brother, Rendezvous.  It features a fenced-in area along the Eagle's Rest trail with a carpeted area for absolute beginners to hone their skills before testing them out on the slopes.

If pummeling down slopes makes you hungry, stop at The Bridger Bean Coffee Shop, or enjoy a hearty breakfast at Nick Wilson's Cowboy Café. Café 6311 is a great stop for lunch that also boasts an impressive selection of domestic and imported microbrews. If hunger strikes while you're on the mountain, there are plenty of options. At the top of the Bridger Gondola 9095' alone there are three restaurants that serve every need--from fine dining to a simple snack.

Non-skiers who happen to stumble upon Jackson Hole Resort can rest assured they will be suitably entertained for the duration of their stay. The nearby town of Jackson hosts several high-class art galleries, and further shopping can be had at many of the souvenir shops along the way. The Mangy Moose is the hottest nightclub in Teton Village, with a well-stocked bar and an array of live musical acts. Those not wanting to leave Jackson can find their signature drink at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.

Whether you seek a challenging day on the slopes or a day to relax, Jackson Hole Ski Resort serves to satisfy.  For more information, visit http://www.jacksonhole.com or call 1-888-DEEP-SNO.