The Casper Ridge Loop is a moderate 1.7 mile lollipop loop hike at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, originating from the top of the Bridger Gondola. For many, this allows for a great reward in higher elevations with minimal effort, though hiking up from the base is also an option.
For those wanting to hike up, the trail can be accessed from the top of either the Wildflower Trail or the Holey Moley Trail, the latter being a much more strenuous option.
Casper Ridge Loop Trail Description
From the top of the Bridger Gondola and restaurant building, head to the south side of the building to catch a trail heading up the mountainside. The ascent begins relatively steep and soon reaches a junction with the Cirque Trail. Stay right to continue up the switchbacks.
The exposed view provides stunning vistas of the nearby Teton peaks, as well as the valley of Jackson Hole. You’ll then quickly reach the woods where, almost immediately after, you’ll come to a junction at 0.3 miles in. The loop starts here, and can be hiked clockwise or counterclockwise. For this write-up, I went clockwise, which is left.
You’ll continue ascending through a fir forest, though albeit at an easier rate than the switchbacks prior. The trail will open into an exposed hillside providing a big northeastern view up the valley of Jackson Hole. You’ll pass through another forest grove where you’ll then make another gentle ascent up an exposed hillside. Once again, unparalleled views into Jackson Hole unfold before you.
Beyond the big views, you’ll enter into a forest of whitebark pine as you snake along the ridgeline. Through this quick stretch, you’ll also notice the ski boundary of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. As the fir trees begin to thicken, you’ll pop out at a jaw-dropping view of the Grand Teton rising in the distance above the majestic Granite Canyon. This is one of the highlights of the trail, so be sure to appreciate it properly.
Once beyond the overlook, the trail loops back around to a junction with the Holey Moley Trail at 0.8 miles in. At the same location is a large crystal that was imported in the hopes of perpetuating good vibes. At the same spot, a spectacular view of the Jackson Hole Tram can also be seen straight ahead. Staying to the right of the junction with Holey Moley, the trail will quickly wind back into the forest.
You’ll descend lightly through firs and whitebark pine as you wrap around to a rocky ridge before proceeding back into the forest. As you then wander through an exposed hillside, you’re treated to great views looking southward down Jackson Hole. You’ll head back into the forest where you come to a stunning rocky overlook, which also closes out the loop.
Avoiding the Via Ferreta area (guides required), head left at the initial junction to head back down the switchbacks and to the Bridger Gondola area.
Getting There
From the Jackson Hole Tram, walk up the hill toward the Bridger Center, finding the Bridger Gondola across the walkway.