TGR editorial intern Toby Koekkoek proves he didn't lie on his resume. Andrew Wells photo
It's 7am and the snow is still trickling down as a large contingent of TGR employees load into a selection of old Subarus and trucks. The reason for this abnormally early work arrival was to make our way from Wilson, Wyoming to Grand Targhee Resort for the official start of ski season. Fueled by coffee and Pearl Street bagels, along with the knowledge that a foot of fresh was waiting to be skied, we drove over Teton Pass in the early morning light.
A smattering of TGR employees throw winter stoke and smiles. Random Guy took photo...thanks!
As the caravan crested the pass over twenty cars could be spotted; fellow powder pilgrims made preparations for their search for snow. We quietly saluted these intrepid spirits who would make the human powered journey to Mt. Glory, Christmas Tree Bowl, and beyond. We commend their enthusiasm, but today's odyssey was for the first lift served turns of the season.
Erin Wyer shows her prowess for pow turns is equal to her ad ops ability. Jonathan Desabris photo
Never was there a longer journey through Driggs and Victor then this morning. Finally we arrived at the resort, got passes and took our place in line, the anticipation growing with each step and falling flake. After what seemed like an unbearable amount of time, the Grand Targhee Resort season started with four friends from Idaho taking first chair.
Nicola Dechamps, Tori Dye, Tana Hoffman, & Andrew Wells showcase the picture ability of a selfie stick.
Not to far behind, rolling over twenty deep, our shred posse loaded Dreamcatcher with equal excitement. While ascending we cheered on those below who were enjoying knee deep pow turns.
Toby Koekkoek goes deep into the white room, he also makes a pretty killer pizza. Jonathan Desabris photo.
At long last we reached the summit and our large group dropped in. Soon cheers and whoops echoed across the peak, as out of shape quads and calves burned from lack of use. Stopping in a clearing, we all exchanged smiles, fist pumps, and a shared sense of optimism for the coming months, winter was finally here.
A pristine view of opening day. Ryan Dunfee photo
Grand Targhee will be spinning lifts all weekend. Lift tickets are available here.
About The Author
stash member Jonathan Desabris
Digital Content Producer at TGR. Jackson Hole transplant from the Green Mountain State. Contrary to popular belief I have never lived in New Jersey.
Andrew Wells
November 20th, 2015
Great shred session this morning…still trying to decide if Dunfee’s near-inaugural snowboard runs were better than his skiing.