As a photographer and videographer in Jackson Hole and Teton Valley, I spend countless hours behind the wheel chasing light, wildlife, landscapes, and construction projects. Most of what I share celebrates the beauty of this incredible place. Every once in a while, however, my camera captures something I wish had never happened.
While driving over Teton Pass, I witnessed what appeared to be a motorhome experiencing a serious braking failure as it descended the mountain. The RV sped through traffic with very little margin for error, creating one of the most intense moments I’ve ever experienced behind a camera. Thankfully, the driver maintained control well enough to avoid a collision, and everyone involved made it through safely. Authorities have not publicly confirmed the exact cause of the incident.
The timing made the experience even more unsettling. Just days earlier, the community had been shaken by a tragic runaway truck crash on the same stretch of highway, a reminder that Teton Pass demands respect from every driver, whether you’re hauling equipment, towing a trailer, driving an RV, or simply commuting to work.
A Video I Never Expected to Share
I uploaded the footage because I believed it served as an important reminder about mountain driving—not because I expected it to spread across the internet.
What happened next was something I’ve never experienced.
Over the past month, the video generated 12,006 engagements, representing a 3,359.9% increase over my typical 28-day performance. It was picked up by regional news outlets, shared widely across social media, and viewed by people far beyond Wyoming and Idaho.
As someone who usually shares wildlife encounters, mountain landscapes, aerial photography, and local construction projects, seeing this level of attention was both surprising and humbling.
The Takeaway Isn’t the Views—It’s the Lesson
If there’s one thing I hope people remember from the video, it isn’t who filmed it or how many people watched it.
It’s this:
Mountain passes are unforgiving.
Whether you’re driving a motorhome, pulling a camper, hauling construction equipment, or towing a trailer, preparation matters. Before descending steep grades:
- Ensure your brakes are in excellent condition.
- Downshift and use engine braking whenever possible.
- Avoid riding your brakes continuously.
- Pull over if you notice overheating brakes or unusual smells.
- Know the capabilities and limitations of your vehicle before entering mountain terrain.
Teton Pass is one of the most scenic roads in the West, but it’s also one that deserves constant attention and respect. Experienced locals understand that conditions can change quickly, and a small mechanical problem can become a life-threatening emergency in seconds.
Thank You
To everyone who watched, shared, and commented on the video—thank you.
I’m grateful that this story ended without injuries and that it sparked conversations about mountain driving safety instead of becoming another tragedy.
I’ll continue sharing the landscapes, wildlife, construction projects, and everyday moments that make this region so special. Hopefully, this will be one of the few times a video of mine goes viral for something this dramatic.
Stay safe out there, and if you’re traveling over Teton Pass, take your time. The mountains will still be there when you arrive.
For now, you can read the Jackson News & Guides article here
