Utah is a skier's paradise, with world-class resorts that offer everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert terrain. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.
As a real estate expert with a passion for skiing, I'm here to help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect ski resort for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned skier looking for the ultimate challenge or a beginner just starting out, Utah has something for everyone.
Park City: The Ultimate Ski Resort
Park City is the largest ski resort in Utah, and it's easy to see why it's so popular. With over 330 trails and 18 lifts, Park City offers something for every level of skier and snowboarder. The resort is spread across two mountains: Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons Resort. Park City Mountain Resort is known for its wide variety of terrain, while Canyons Resort is home to some of the best beginner and intermediate runs in the state.
- Hotels: Luxurious options like Montage Deer Valley and Goldener Hirsch, family-friendly choices like Hyatt Place and Marriott's Mountainside Villas, or charming boutique hotels like The St. Regis Deer Valley.
- Restaurants: Fine dining at Stein Eriksen Lodge, casual fare at Red Iguana, and apres-ski fun at No Name Saloon.
- Other activities: Historic Main Street shopping, Olympic Park tours, Sundance Film Festival (January), hot air balloon rides, scenic drives, and snowshoeing.
Deer Valley: A Luxury Ski Experience
Deer Valley is another popular ski resort in Utah, and it's known for its luxurious amenities and excellent service. The resort has over 100 trails, all of which are groomed to perfection. Deer Valley is also home to a variety of upscale restaurants and lodges, making it a great choice for those looking for a pampered ski experience. The resort is located in the Wasatch Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
- Hotels: The iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge, the rustic-chic Lodges at Deer Valley, or ski-in/ski-out options like The Montage Deer Valley.
- Restaurants: Gourmet Italian at Osteria Bernardini, French comfort food at Brasserie Sage, and fondue at The Foundry Grill.
- Other activities: Deer Valley Music Festival (July-August), sleigh rides, snowmobiling, ice skating, and exploring nearby art galleries.
Snowbird: A Skier's Paradise
Snowbird is a world-class ski resort located just a short drive from Salt Lake City. With over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, Snowbird offers something for every level of skier and snowboarder. The resort is made up of three mountains: Hidden Peak, Gadzoom, and Mineral Basin. Hidden Peak is the largest of the three and is home to some of the most challenging terrain in Utah. Gadzoom is known for its long, intermediate runs, while Mineral Basin is a great place for beginners and families.
- Hotels: Ski-in/ski-out options like The Cliff Lodge and Snowbird Ski & Spa, family-friendly choices like The Inn at Snowbird, or budget-friendly options like The Peruvian Lodge.
- Restaurants: Casual American fare at The Summit Restaurant, Italian comfort food at The Cucina, and après-ski fun at The Thirsty Moose.
- Other activities: Mineral Basin tubing park, guided snowshoe tours, cliff jumping at The Cirque, scenic drives along Little Cottonwood Canyon, and exploring the historic Alta Tram.
Alta Ski Area: A Local's Favorite
Alta Ski Area is a smaller ski resort located just outside of Salt Lake City. It's a favorite among locals for its challenging terrain and laid-back atmosphere. Alta is also home to some of the best snow in Utah. The resort is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Hotels: Cozy and convenient options like The Alta Peruvian Lodge, ski-in/ski-out choices like Alta Lodge, or budget-friendly motels like The Galt House.
- Restaurants: Traditional American fare at The Rustler Lodge, hearty breakfasts at The Alta Bakery & Cafe, and après-ski fun at The Alta Alehouse.
- Other activities: Guided backcountry skiing tours, ice skating on the lake at Alta Lodge, exploring the historic Alta Museum, and soaking in the hot springs at nearby Lava Hot Springs.
Sundance Resort: A Ski Resort with a Focus on Art and Culture
Sundance Resort is a ski resort that's known for its focus on art and culture. The resort is home to the Sundance Film Festival, as well as a variety of art galleries and theaters. Sundance also offers a variety of ski and snowboard lessons, making it a great place to learn or improve your skills. The resort is located in Sundance Canyon, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Hotels: Luxurious options at The Sundance Mountain Resort, quaint lodges like Timpanogos Lodge, or private cabins scattered throughout the resort.
- Restaurants: Farm-to-table cuisine at Foundry Grill, casual fare at Lift Lodge, and après-ski fun at The Owl Bar.
- Other activities: Sundance Film Festival (January), Studio Art Tour, yoga and meditation classes, sleigh rides, and snowshoeing.
Utah is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, and there are many different factors to consider when choosing the right resort for you. Whether you're looking for a luxurious ski experience, a challenging ski vacation, or a family-friendly ski resort, there's a perfect ski resort in Utah for you.
