Since 1939, Snow King Mountain Resort has played an important role in recreation, commerce and community development in Jackson Hole. As Wyoming’s and Jackson Hole's first ski area, Snow King Mountain Resort paved the way for similar winter resorts on Forest Service land in the Wind River, Bighorn and Medicine Bow mountains. Within Jackson Hole, the development of Snow King fostered a community culture built around the enjoyment and skill of winter sports, which eventually made Jackson Hole an international ski destination. Snow King Mountain Resort was the first Jackson Hole ski area to secure Jackson, Wyoming’s reputation as a ski town. The ski resort dominates the landscape of Jackson Hole, rising straight out of the streets in town, the same as in Aspen, Colorado. Within skiing/walking distance or a five minute drive to the Jackson Town Square featuring the famous Elk Antler Arches, 30+ lodging properties 65+ restaurants, over 160 retail stores, 38+ art galleries, historical museums and more. Snow King Mountain Resort offers five superb beginner trails and six intermediate ski and snowboarding runs which are distinctly separated from the expert trails, providing a secluded area generally free of expert traffic, making for the ideal ski and snowboard learning environment. 13 Expert trails coupled with Advanced and Expert tree skiing round out the ski resort's offering. Summer activities at Snow King include Jackson Hole's only Alpine Slide, Scenic Chairlift Ride, hiking trails for all ages and abilities, and a extensive mountain biking trail system. The view of the Tetons and the Jackson Hole valley from the top of Snow King is considered by many as being the best vantage point of any ski area or scenic overlook in the Jackson Hole area.