Jackson Hole Ski Resort being ranked #1 is a good thing, right?

Shouldn’t Jackson residents be excited about our status as the #1 ski resort in North America?  It creates fantastic press and is great for business and visitor traffic, right? Speaking strictly from a professional standpoint it’s been ideal for local commerce. More specifically, the real estate market has definitely benefited—in February alone Mercedes Huff and Associates closed 3 transactions and put 4 additional properties under contract!

Even better (most might think) is that Jackson appears to be living up to the leading standard…and then some! The copious amount of snow we received in February continues to draw crowds to Jackson Hole. The professional in me thinks, “Fabulous!” but the skier in me does not necessarily share the same enthusiasm.

As the crowds grow, locals are left battling long lift-lines, and finding fresh snow becomes more difficult. Moreover, I think it causes skiers and snowboarders to make unwise decisions in the backcountry and side-country as these individuals are determined to find untracked powder even if it involves putting themselves and others in danger.

I have a feeling I am not alone in my two-sided feelings—we are proud of this place we call home but sometimes I think we wish we could keep it all for ourselves! Overall though, the fresh snow last month coupled with the #1 ranking have been extremely beneficial—they have provided this town with incredible energy and record numbers over the winter. And we all must admit that more traffic equates to stronger livelihoods, which in turn we all rely on to participate in our favorite winter pastimes. After all, those tickets and skis are NOT free!