Jackson Hole’s Aerial Tram to Reopen May 18th for Sightseeing and Backcountry Skiing Access

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s Aerial Tram—known colloquially as “Big Red”—will reopen on May 18th for summer sightseeing operations. The Tram’s summer operating season extends until October 6th.

Constructed in 2008, the Tram transports sightseers to the top of the 10,450-foot Rendezvous Mountain, providing access to numerous hiking and biking trails alongside Corbet’s Cabin—home to gourmet waffles slathered in toppings like Nutella and Peanut Butter. A release from JHMR noted that wildlife sightings aren’t uncommon during Tram rides.

“The opening of the Aerial Tram is traditionally one of our favorite days of the year at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort because it marks the official beginning of summer,” said Tim Mason, JHMR vice president of operations

Hikers head out for a day on Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's trails.<p>Eric Seymour/Jackson Hole Mountain Resort</p>
Hikers head out for a day on Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's trails.

Eric Seymour/Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

JHMR is unveiling a new structure on Rendezvous Mountain this spring—the Grand Teton Skywalk—which provides views of the surrounding Tetons.

Skiers, too, have options. While JHMR’s piste is now closed to skiers (hikers and mountain bikers are permitted), several backcountry zones border the Tram’s top station. As long as skiers remain outside JHMR’s boundaries, they can use the Tram as a jumping-off point for their backcountry adventures. JHMR ski patrol representatives are not on duty.

“It has been dumping this May, and there is a ton of snow up high,” noted a representative from JHMR. Cody Peak and No Name Peak are popular backcountry destinations accessible via the Tram.

Big Red soars above Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.<p>Andrew Schrum/Jackson Hole Mountain Resort</p>
Big Red soars above Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Andrew Schrum/Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Starting June 15th, JHMR’s Sweetwater and Bridger gondolas will open for sightseeing alongside the Tram.

Adult sightseeing tickets range from $43 to $50 online. Ticket prices are higher for in-person purchases. An individual sightseeing summer pass costs $165. Several of JHMR’s season pass products provide access to the Tram.

JHMR ended its winter operations on April 14th. The ski season proved to be a mixed bag—December failed to deliver the goods, but February and March saw powder days aplenty.

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