All Images: Connor Burkesmith
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has the blues, and we’re not talking about Albert King. The iconic ski area called upon denim-clad skiers and snowboarders to come and ride in their finest denim get-ups to once again set the record for the most skiers in jeans. They accomplished this goal, beating the previous record of 3,114 people, which the resort set last year, by 200 riders.
As if joining your friends wasn’t incentive enough, the resort offered up $25 lift tickets, giveaways, drink deals, free live music and a mechanical bull. That’s right, if you played your cards right you likely scored a lift ticket for less than a tank of gas, ripped a few groomers in the greatest snow pants ever invented, grabbed a cheap(ish) beer, listened to free tunes and capped off the day with a lap on the mechanical bull. If that isn’t heaven, I just don’t know what is.
The event is far from an annual classic, with the first edition at JHMR being held just last season. But judging by the massive turnout we’ve seen in the first two years, we might see more Jackson denim days in the future.
JHMR Marketing Director Ned Wonson said that it was an easy call to bring the event back, stating, “The first Ski in Jeans Day last year was such a runaway success, we knew we had to bring the event back this year. And our guests certainly didn’t disappoint. We’re thrilled so many people showed up from all around the world to set the new record, and we can’t wait for more guests to experience Destination December events as the holiday season approaches.”
Blue skies and a freshly tuned pair of planks offered premier conditions for laying early-season hip. While the snow was a bit on the firm side, skiers had no problem bringing the hype… just ask Spencer Harkins. This year’s record of 3,320 skiers (and boarders) in jeans is a whopping total, but who knows, perhaps another resort will rise to the challenge.
Jackson is serving up more events throughout December as their holiday WinterFest rolls on with a scavenger hunt, evening sledding, skiing with Santa and more. Be sure to check out their page for a full list of events. You best make it to Teton Village if you can!
