Snow. It’s a way of life for folks in Star Valley. There’s something comforting and predictable about the white blanket that covers all the dust and work, allowing the earth to rest.

For some, however, snow brings all the energy and excitement of recreation, with snowmobiling at the top of the list. With each new layer of powder, the adrenaline junkies gather at the top of Salt River Pass and up Willow Creek. They run up the Greys River and over the mountain into Granite.

This weekend, February 21-23, they will gather to Grover Park, where the best of the best will compete in the 2025 Afton Hill Climbs, navigating one of the most naturally challenging snowmobiling courses in the intermountain west, second only to the World Championship course in Jackson Hole.

Though the Grover Park course is “not as long or as steep” as the course in Jackson, “it does have the natural obstacles” that push riders to perform at their most technically skilled level, said Kaydene Andrews, who serves as Treasurer to the Star Valley Ridge Riders, in an interview with SVI Media last week. The Grover course is “one of the most challenging on the circuit for sure. The riders have to perform at a highly technical level, and they have to be fast. We have some of the top pro riders on the circuit that are local here to Star Valley.”

As machines and riders become one, spectators enjoy the thrill of witnessing exceptional riding and breathtaking mastery. The occasionally spectacular wreck keeps the crowd on the edges of their seats. “It is so fun to watch.”

Such a spectacle is not to be missed, so Star Valley is invited to the party. A shuttle is provided to transport spectators to and from the hill from a parking area at the south base of Grover Park, just yards from Highway 89 in Grover.  Admission is free, and folks not only enjoy a visual treat with the races, but apparel and food, provided by Big Dog’s Burger Barn and Warren’s Funnel Cakes and Fried Foods. Beverages are available from a small beer garden as well. Seating on bleachers is provided, or folks can bring their camp and lawn chairs.

Races begin at 8 a.m. each morning, featuring classes for Juniors, Amateurs and Professionals. Families are invited to watch the races and visit with all the riders, who frequently autograph posters for the young friends and enjoy sharing stories and tips with their fans, encouraging youth to take up the sport.

“It’s just a fun and good activity. You can bring your family up there and spend the day,” said Andrews. “If you haven’t seen a hill climb event, definitely come and check it out, especially with the level of talent we have with our local riders. Odds are pretty good that you’re going to know somebody, and you can come and cheer on your favorite racer.”