Spring skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a treat in and of itself: Monstrous ski terrain, beautiful surroundings, fun-loving skiers abounding, après partying in full effect and the charming town of Jackson, WY to explore, as well. Throw a full-blown spring festival dubbed Rendezvous into the mix, complete with world-class music acts including Zac Brown Band, and now you’re really talking. Do that amid a ski season that locals are simply referring to as “the big one” — thanks to 537″ of snow thus far, and the deepest snowpack ever recorded at the ski resort — and, well, you’ve got something legendary on your hands. This was the back drop for last night’s FREESKIER FEST rager at the famed Mangy Moose Saloon.
Following up a day of perfect spring skiing (video evidence below), Team FREESKIER joined an estimated 10,000 mountain folk for a performance by Zac Brown Band. The Atlanta, Georgia-based country group rocked the crowd for two hours, culminating with a full-blown fireworks display. When the action outdoors ceased, throngs of partygoers were hungry for more. Luckily, just 100 yards from the main stage, was the Mangy Moose, promising more live music courtesy of Uncle Stack & The Attack, shot skis, countless free beers and a doggone good time.
I'll tell you what the Zac brown band concert changed my life
— Kevin Angland (@Kevin_Angland_) March 19, 2017
This was, of course, the latest in a series of FREESKIER FEST ragers; recent parties also rocked Aspen, Colorado amid the X Games, and Breckenridge, Colorado, in December. FREESKIER also recently completed its 15-stop Elevated Après Tour, making stops across North America.
To those who joined us at the Moose, we thank you. Stay tuned for the next edition of FREESKIER FEST, coming soon.
The skiing in Jackson has been crazy good of late; proof below
Get yer butts to Jackson!
Where to eat
Cafe Genevieve: A true local gem that serves up seasonal, southern-inspired dishes for breakfast (until 3pm), lunch and dinner. No matter what you order, you will not be disappointed. Oh and make sure you check out their “Pig Candy.”
Il Villaggio Osteria: Known simply as “Osteria” to the locals, this spot serves up delicious and authentic Italian food. Instead of lasagna and breadsticks, think bruschetta, meats, cheeses, wood-fired pizzas and delicious seafood.
Spur: Located inside the Teton Mountain Lodge, The Spur offers upscale apps that go hand-in-hand with its delicious drinks and great atmosphere. The place is usually bustling which is always a good sign.
Where to stay
Hotel Terra Jackson Hole: Hotel Terra is an eco-friendly hotel with a prime location in Teton Village. It features multiple restaurants and a rooftop hot tub to soak your weary body in at the day’s end.
The Wort Hotel: Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, The Wort is an upscale downtown hotel that’s in a prime location for walking to restaurants, bars, shops and the iconic town square. It’s also home to the Silver Dollar Bar which is a vibrant scene to grab a drink and catch some live music.
Teton Mountain Lodge This luxury lodge is located slopeside, just a stone’s throw from the famous Big Red Tram. The TML, as it’s known, aims to make life easy for its guests, paying attention to such details as stashing boot warmers inside the closets of each room.
Where to drink
Mangy Moose: The Mangy Moose is a world famous spot for après in Jackson. It’s known for delicious spicy margaritas, great apps and live music in the large and eclectic saloon throughout the winter.
Million Dollar Cowboy Bar: You’ve probably heard of this “place with the saddles for bar stools.” It’s definitely a bit of a tourist trap for that reason but it’s good for people watching and fun if you want to hang out and shoot pool with some friends.
The Rose: The Rose is attached to the Pink Garter music venue and is a popular spot for handcrafted cocktails or ice cold beers. It’s a bit of a swanky setting but you’ll find plenty of locals mixing it up in here.