We all have those moments on the mountain where we feel pretty cool. Maybe it's finally nailing that parallel turn or navigating a mogul field without falling over. But then, you see something like this coming out of Jackson Hole, and it reminds you that there are levels to this sport that most of us can only dream of!
While Corbet’s Couloir usually gets all the glory (and the terrified glances from the tram), its neighbor, the S&S Couloir, is arguably the tougher beast. It’s widely considered one of the most intense in-bounds runs not just in Wyoming, but potentially in the whole country.
Why is S&S So Scary?
Unlike a standard steep drop, S&S requires a level of precision that makes my mom-brain short-circuit. You have to literally ride a rock wall down onto the snow and then execute a sharp, mandatory turn immediately to avoid smashing into the rocks below. It’s like something Wile E. Coyote would design, except the consequences here are very real.
Because of the extreme danger, this run is rarely open and actually requires permission from Ski Patrol to enter. It's definitely not for the faint of heart—or for anyone who hasn't double-checked their health insurance policy recently!
The First Send of 2026
Word on the mountain is that the first skier to conquer S&S for the 2025-26 season has officially made their mark. And here is the part I absolutely love: it wasn't just some random pro, but reportedly Bob Kilmain—the dad of teenage ski phenom Jack Kilmain.
As a parent who spends a lot of time hauling gear and planning trips, I have so much respect for the dads and moms out there who can still rip lines like this. We talk a lot about getting the kids ready for the slopes, but keeping our own skills sharp is just as important (though maybe we don't all need to be jumping off cliffs to prove it!).
The video of the run shows the skier taking quite a "base grind" on the entry rocks—the coverage looked a little thin up top, but he managed to stick it. It’s a brutal, beautiful reminder of the rugged terrain that makes Jackson Hole such a legendary destination. Speaking of which, the resort scores a solid 67.2/100 on ShredIndex, largely due to this kind of expert terrain.
Gear & Safety Check
If you are planning a trip to Jackson Hole—whether you plan to ski the scary stuff or stick to the groomers with the family—make sure you are prepared. This is big mountain territory.
If you're looking to upgrade your safety game before tackling steeper terrain, a high-quality helmet is non-negotiable. We use MIPS helmets in our family for that extra peace of mind.
- Helmet Recommendation: Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet
- Skis for Big Mountain: Blizzard Rustler 10 Skis
And if you're ready to book your own family adventure (perhaps with slightly less cliff-jumping), you can find accommodation in Teton Village here.
Stay safe out there, friends! And remember, there is no shame in taking the bypass while the experts handle the cliffs.
Source: Unofficial Networks
