Snow King – Cowboy Coaster

The Cowboy Coaster is a two-person alpine coaster on Snow King Mountain at the south edge of downtown Jackson. Sit in a cart on a track built into the hillside, ride a chairlift to the top, then descend a winding gravity-fed track with self-controlled speed via hand-brake. Year-round operation (summer and winter, weather permitting) sets it apart from the warm-weather-only Alpine Slide. The right fit is anyone wanting a quick-thrill family activity in town that works in both seasons. The wrong fit is anyone wanting a half-day adventure or anyone uncomfortable with self-controlled speed at heights.

Top Highlights of the Snow King Cowboy Coaster

Buy a ticket at the base. Take the chairlift up Snow King (about 10 minutes, with valley views). At the top, get into a one or two-person cart, push off, and ride the gravity-fed track down. Brake with the hand control on tight turns or let it run on straights. The track is locked-on (no derailing) and you control speed within set limits. Self-pace makes it work for both timid and adrenaline-seeking riders.

Year-round vs Alpine Slide

Same hill, different ride, different season profile. The Alpine Slide is a one-person sled run on concrete, summer only. The Cowboy Coaster is a track-mounted cart and runs year-round. In winter, the Coaster is one of very few non-skiing thrill activities running at the resort; in summer, both rides operate and pair well in a Snow King base-area afternoon.

Who it works for

Families with kids old enough to meet height and age requirements (riding alone or with an adult). Adults wanting a quick-thrill afternoon. Travelers in winter who want a non-skiing activity at altitude. Self-controlled speed makes it accessible to nervous riders who can brake through turns; experienced riders can let it run for the rush.

Season and timing

Year-round operation, weather permitting. Summer (late May through early October) sees longer hours and runs alongside the rest of the Snow King base activities. Winter operations align with ski season; you'll ride past skiers and snowboarders on the slopes. Closes for rain, lightning, and severe winter weather. Mid-day weekends bring peak waits in summer; early morning and late afternoon are calmer.

What to plan around

Three honest tradeoffs. First, single-ride duration is short (a few minutes); make this part of a multi-activity afternoon, not a destination. Second, summer weekend lift waits can be 20+ minutes on top of coaster line. Third, weather-based closures happen; check before driving over from out of town.

Heads up

For winter, this is the underrated activity at Snow King. Most visitors head to Teton Village for skiing and skip Snow King entirely; the Coaster gives you a quick-thrill activity in downtown Jackson that doesn't require ski boots, lift tickets at JHMR, or a 25-minute drive. Combine with mini golf or a Bouldering Park visit if conditions allow.

Worth it?

The Cowboy Coaster is one of the steadiest year-round thrill activities in downtown Jackson. Build it into a Snow King base-area afternoon (combo pass with the Alpine Slide, mini golf, and Amaze'n Maze in summer) or use it as a stand-alone winter thrill stop.

FAQ

Is there a height or age minimum?

Yes for both solo riding and adult-accompanied rides. Confirm specifics at the base ticket office; rules differ for solo vs accompanied.

Can I ride in winter?

Yes. Operations run through the ski season, weather permitting. Dress in layers; the chairlift up is cold and the track is exposed.

Is the speed adjustable?

Yes, you control with a hand-brake. Maximum speed is capped by the system; you cannot exceed safe limits.

What if it rains or storms?

The Coaster closes for rain, lightning, and severe weather. Check status before heading over if storms are forecast.