Ready for a quick midwinter road trip?
The Teton Valley's annual "Great Snow Fest" runs through Sunday as it celebrates the best of Teton Valley winter fun and highlights one of the region’s greatest assets: its pristine supply of high-country snow.
The mid-winter event features everything from snow sculptures to skijoring competitions, snocross races and more.
This showcase of the valley’s snow-based amenities enables visitors and locals to celebrate Teton Valley’s deep history of snow recreation. Other highlights include a snow plane exhibition, the annual Backcountry Film Festival and a nordic ski race.
Here’s a sampler of the Snowfest from early 2015, courtesy of the Teton Valley Foundation:
NASJA Skijoring Competition
Skijoring is rodeo’s answer to the X-Games., featuring a NASJA-sanctioned competition that is hosted by the Teton Valley Foundation and Hapi Trails. Skiers fly over jumps and around obstacles while being pulled by horses. This event coincides with the Sno X competition at 300 Main in Driggs. (A $5 spectator fee benefits the nonprofits but kids are free.)
Snow Sculpting
“Snowscapes” is organized by the Downtown Driggs Community Association and the Teton Arts Council. Sculpting teams create innovative sculptures for public viewing. The attraction connects artists, visitors and residents in a creative space to discover the beauty of Teton Valley’. More information: visit www.driggssnowscapes.org.
Sno X Snowmobiling Comp
Sno X is a high-octane, action-packed race where snow machines compete at top speeds on a course with banked turns and huge jumps. It’s Motocross on snow, fun for spectators and racers alike. This event is hosted by the Skyliners Motor Club. (Expect a small entrance fee to benefit local nonprofits.) You can register at skylinersmotorclub.com.
Backcountry Film Festival
The annual Backcountry Film Festival is the official kick-off event for the Great Snow Fest. The evening features numerous films, raffle items, beer and great local food. Doors open at 6 p.m. with films beginning at approximately 7 p.m. and entry is only $5. All proceeds support TVTAP which promotes a trails and pathways connected community.
Nordic Sprint Relay Races
The Teton Valley Ski Education Foundation has designed a family-friendly relay race intended for all ability levels. Participants in 1K, 2K, and 4K relay divisions ski through a short lapped course that is great for racers and spectators. All participants receive TVSEF swag for their participation in this event, and there will be prizes for the winners. Register at tvsef.org.
Snow Ball V
Snow Ball V, hosted by the Downtown Driggs Community Association, is one of the Great Snow Fests’ ultimate celebrations, featuring local music and drinks. For more information visit downtowndriggs.org.
Dale Robson Memorial Snowplane Rally & Exhibition
A mode of winter transportation that pre-dates the snowmobile, snowplanes are a rich part of Teton Valley history. This event is organized by the Greater Tetonia Community Foundation in Tetonia.
Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race
The 21st Annual PEDIGREE Stage Stop Sled Dog Race is the largest in the lower 48 states, and is adding a Teton Valley stage in Driggs. Visit www.wyomingstagestop.org for details.
Dog-joring Fun Race
Teton Valley Community Animal Shelter offers one of the Fest’s most fun – and adorable –events. Grab your XC skis and a willing furry friend to enter this fun dog-joring race in Driggs. Proceeds support the Animal Shelter (www.tvshelter.org).
12th Annual Spud Chase Nordic Race
The Spud Chase highlights some of the valley’s incredible Nordic trails. This Victor skate skiing race is hosted by Peaked Sports. Choose between 16K, 8K, or a 2K kids race. You can register at spudchase.athlete360.com.
While you’re in the valley for the festivities, be sure to step inside the Teton Geotourism Center. It offers an array of exhibits and experiences that highlight the winter culture, history and recreation of the west side of the Tetons.
Source: www.tetonvalleyfoundation.org/greatsnowfest