Skiing Report: Going Steep and Deep in Jackson Hole With Olympian Tommy Moe

With 27 feet of snowfall so far and counting—and possibly the best snow in years—Jackson Hole Mountain Resort continues be a retreat for skiers and snowboarders to indulge in some of the best terrain in the country. Here's a new way to see it with EpicQuest's custom ski tours led by Olympic Gold Medalist Tommy Moe.

Adventure: Of all the ski resorts to call home, why did you pick Jackson Hole?

Tommy Moe:

I picked to live and ski in Jackson Hole because of the great skiing and other outdoor pursuits to enjoy daily. The skiing is world class with challenging terrain, steeps, backcountry and big vertical. We also get lots of snow and sunshine!

Photograph courtesy Tommy Moe

Now that you no longer compete, how has your approach to skiing changed?
My approach to skiing hasn't changed much, I still love to ski as much as ever. I especially love untracked powder, wide open groom runs and steep challenging terrain. I backcountry ski in the Tetons all the time and enjoy the serenity of the mountains.

Do skiers who tour with you have be race? Just kidding. How do you chose where to take the people you are guiding?
I chose to take people down terrain and runs based on their ability. It's fun to see them progress to more challenging terrain based on their confidence and skill.

Have you ever had a close call with an avalanche?
I had a close call with a large avalanche on the north side of Jackson Hole in Granite Canyon. There was a bunch of new snow, and we just got a little to aggressive on the terrain selection. Halfway down I got nervous in one area and decided to ski cut the slope. As soon as I cut across, the whole slope cracked three feet deep and ran a 1,000 feet down to the creek. I was pissed at myself for being back there and was lucky I didn't get caught in the avalanche. Over the years I've gained a lot of experience from being in the mountains and studying the snowpack.

What are three skill tips you can tell us?
I think the most important skills are: 1. Believe in your own ability and trusting yourself; 2. Look ahead while you are skiing so you can react to the terrain changes and be ready for the slopes in front of you; 3. Have fun, live in the moment, be on the offensive, and make it happen!

What: Ski trips led by Olympic Gold Medalist Tommy Moe
Where: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
When: Custom, through the end of March
Who: EpicQuest