The Mountain West’s Best Kept Winter Secret

Insider tips from the proprietor of Swan Valley's River Retreat Lodge
Christmas Lodge Cropped Copy1

River Retreat Lodge on a snowy day. | Photo: Elizabeth Douville

Located just one hour from Jackson Hole, WY, and Idaho Falls, ID, Swan Valley is the hidden gem of a winter playground you have been looking for. Offering everything from off-the-beaten-path snowshoe fly-fishing, resort skiing and snowboarding and soaking in natural hot springs to alpine cross-country ski trails and guided and private snowmobiling amidst untouched backcountry mountain scenery, come discover this winter wonderland.

Snowmobiling 

Yellowstone National Park

Snowmobiling in Swan Valley on a bluebird day. | Photo: Adobe Stock

Swan Valley, Idaho, features over 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails winding through dense forests and open meadows. Popular routes include the Palisades Creek Trail, which offers scenic views alongside the Palisades Reservoir, and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, known for its challenging yet exquisite terrain.

Skiing & Snowboarding 

Two Skiers Skin Across A Snowy Meadow On A Backcountry Trek

Nordic skiing through forests of frosted evergreens. | Photo: Adobe Stock

Take advantage of some fresh powder with skiing in the valley and nearby mountains. With options for both Nordic and Alpine skiing, there is a bit of something for everyone. If you’re ready for downhill action, Jackson Hole Ski Resort and Grand Targhee are both just an hour’s drive away across the border in Wyoming. Local resort Kelly Canyon is just 30 minutes up US-26 W. Or, if you prefer the peace and tranquility of nordic, cross country ski trails abound in the area. Nearby local favorites include the Palisades Creek Trailhead, Bear Creek Trail and Fall Creek Campground.

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking 

Young Man Snowshoeing In Winter, In The Quebec Eastern Township

Heading through a snowy forest on snowshoes. | Photo: Adobe Stock

Swan Valley’s snowy landscapes are the perfect setting for snowshoeing and winter hiking. Take a spin on the Palisades Creek Trail- a perfect little hike with a picturesque frozen lake at the end of the snowshoe trail about 4 miles in. Exquisite mountainscape and forest scenery, so don’t forget your camera when you go!

Ice Fishing

Snake River Sunset

Gorgeous view of the Snake River in winter. | Photo: Adobe Stock

Try your hand at ice fishing on Palisades Reservoir or MacKay Reservoir. Or, gear up and try your hand at fly fishing on the South Fork of the nearby Snake River, which is home to rainbow, German Brown, and native Cutthroat trout.

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Edge Of Palisades Reservoir

Winter view of Palisades Reservoir. | Photo: Elizabeth Douville.

Swan Valley is part of the Yellowstone ecosystem which is home to the largest elk and Rocky Mountain big horn sheep herds in the country as well as numerous other species of wildlife including bald eagles, moose, elk, whitetail deer, owls, and more. The stunning natural winter scenery, with snow-capped peaks and frozen rivers, makes it an ideal destination for capturing the perfect shot.

Hot Springs

Relax and soothe the aches away with a dip in the natural mineral hot springs at Heise Hot Springs. With hot pools topping out at about 104 degrees Fahrenheit, this destination is ideal for a winter’s afternoon soak.

Unique Lodging

River Retreat Lodge Winter

River Retreat Lodge at sunset. | Photo: Elizabeth Douville

Far away from the big city chains, local lodging provides the feel of a small town welcome with a cozy atmosphere. There are a plethora of camps, cabins, motels and lodges to choose from including the River Retreat Lodge and Gilded Trumpeter boutique dining, Hansen Guest Ranch, The Lodge at Palisades Creek, Sleepy J Cabins, The Little Moose Lodge and Restaurant and The Snake River Roadhouse.

Christmas Pic 2022 With Fire

A cozy fire warms the great room of the River Retreat Lodge. | Photo: Elizabeth Douville

With all of these adventures to choose from, it’s easy to curate your own personalized winter vacation. Share extraordinary experiences and make memories with the ones you love during your visit in Swan Valley, Idaho.

Elizabeth Douville is the owner of River Retreat Lodge, located in beautiful Swan Valley, Idaho. With six unique vintage-themed suites, a magnificent mountain garden, daily gourmet breakfast, and friendly down-home service, River Retreat Lodge offers a luxurious, intimate lodge setting in a region of extraordinary outdoor adventure. 

Content for this article provided by River Retreat Lodge

Categories: Mountain Travel, Native Content