Article By: Kris Lodhi
The Best Places to Ski in Utah: A Skier’s Paradise
Utah is often regarded as one of the premier ski destinations in the United States, and for good reason. The state’s famed “Greatest Snow on Earth” draws in skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. Utah’s unique combination of high-altitude terrain, dry air, and frequent snowstorms creates light, powdery snow that’s ideal for skiing. With a diverse array of ski resorts scattered across the Wasatch and Uinta mountain ranges, Utah offers something for every winter sports enthusiast, from beginners to experts. Here’s a look at some of the best ski resorts in Utah and what makes each one stand out.
Park City Mountain Resort
Park City Mountain Resort is one of Utah’s most famous ski destinations and, in fact, in the world. Located just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, Park City is the largest ski resort in the United States. It boasts over 7,300 acres of terrain, making it a haven for skiers of all levels. From groomed runs for beginners to challenging expert trails, Park City offers something for everyone.
In addition to skiing, Park City is home to a vibrant mountain town filled with restaurants, shops, and après-ski venues. The city’s distinctive charm is due to its historic Main Street, lined with art galleries and unique boutiques. The resort also hosts world-class events, including parts of the Sundance Film Festival.
Deer Valley Resort
Just a stone’s throw from Park City, Deer Valley Resort is known for its luxurious amenities and impeccable customer service. Skiers at Deer Valley are treated to freshly groomed trails, and the resort limits the number of lift tickets sold each day to ensure an uncrowded experience. What sets Deer Valley apart is that it’s a ski-only resort—snowboarding is not allowed, which adds to its appeal for purist skiers.
With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, Deer Valley is best known for its well-maintained slopes, ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers. Its numerous dining options, many of which are ski-in/ski-out, offer gourmet cuisine that perfectly complements a day on the mountain. Deer Valley has earned accolades for its attention to detail and overall luxury, making it a top destination for those looking for an upscale ski vacation.
Alta Ski Area
Alta Ski Area, located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, is one of Utah’s oldest ski resorts and has a rich history dating back to 1939. Like Deer Valley, Alta is a ski-only resort, which adds to its traditional, no-frills skiing experience. Alta is famous for its abundant snowfall, often receiving over 500 inches of snow annually. It’s also known for its incredible powder, making it a favorite among advanced skiers and powder hounds.
Alta’s terrain is best suited for intermediate and expert skiers, with wide-open bowls, steep chutes, and challenging tree runs. However, beginners will also find gentler slopes to practice their skills. Alta shares a lift ticket with the adjacent Snowbird Resort, allowing access to over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, making this duo one of the most exciting areas for skiers in the country.
Snowbird
Snowbird, Alta’s neighboring resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon, is renowned for its challenging terrain and steep vertical drops. With its cliffs, chutes, and off-piste runs, Snowbird attracts expert skiers, but it also offers a variety of intermediate and beginner trails. The resort’s aerial tram, which climbs to Hidden Peak at 11,000 feet, offers jaw-dropping views and access to some of the steepest terrain in Utah.
One of Snowbird’s major draws is its long ski season, often stretching from November to May or even into June on a good snow year. Its location and high elevation mean Snowbird enjoys a consistent snowpack throughout the winter. Skiers and boarders can take advantage of deep powder days shared in this canyon. Additionally, Snowbird has modern facilities, including the luxurious Cliff Lodge, which offers ski-in/ski-out access and spa services for a relaxing end to a ski day.
Solitude Mountain Resort
For those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful skiing experience, Solitude Mountain Resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon is an excellent choice. True to its name, Solitude offers a serene atmosphere with fewer skiers on the slopes compared to the more famous Utah resorts. It has over 1,200 acres of terrain, featuring a mix of wide groomers, challenging moguls, and tree-lined runs.
Solitude is particularly popular with families and intermediate skiers, though it also offers a variety of challenging runs for experts. The Honeycomb Canyon area, known for its backcountry-style terrain, is a favorite among advanced skiers looking for powder-filled bowls. Solitude is part of the Ikon Pass, making it accessible to many visitors looking for a quieter, less commercialized ski experience.
Brighton Resort
Also located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton Resort is one of Utah’s best-loved ski resorts, particularly for families and beginner skiers. Known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, Brighton offers excellent value with affordable lift tickets and free skiing for children under ten. Despite being smaller than some of Utah’s mega-resorts, Brighton boasts over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain and receives an average of 500 inches of snow each year.
Brighton is well known for its easy-to-navigate layout. Every lift leads back to the base, making it almost impossible to get lost. The resort also offers night skiing, which is a major draw for locals and visitors alike who want to extend their time on the slopes. Snowboarders will feel right at home here, as Brighton is one of the most snowboard-friendly resorts in Utah.
Brian Head Resort
At the heart of Southern Utah’s ski scene is Brian Head Resort, the highest ski area in Utah, boasting a base elevation of 9,600 feet and summit peaks reaching 11,307 feet. With over 650 acres of skiable terrain, Brian Head offers something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping black diamonds to wide-open beginner runs perfect for families.
What sets Brian Head apart isn’t just the snow, though the 360 inches of annual snowfall are nothing to scoff at, it’s the incredible views. Imagine carving down a pristine slope while gazing at the red rock formations of Cedar Breaks National Monument. For those who prefer snowboarding, Brian Head’s terrain parks offer jumps, rails, and creative features that are thrilling to explore.
Off the slopes, the resort features cozy lodges, fantastic dining, and a lively après-ski scene. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by the fire or enjoying a meal with friends, Brian Head creates a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Eagle Point Resort: Hidden Luxury
The resort features 40 runs across 650 skiable acres, catering to beginners and experts alike. Powder hounds will appreciate the untouched snow, while families will love the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. With its top-notch ski school, Eagle Point is an ideal place to learn or sharpen your skills.
But skiing isn’t the only highlight. Eagle Point is renowned for its luxurious accommodations, including slopeside cabins and cozy lodges. Pair that with their fine dining options, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect winter getaway.
Utah’s ski resorts are diverse, offering something for everyone, whether you’re looking for luxury, challenging expert terrain, or a relaxed family atmosphere. Resorts like Park City, Deer Valley, Alta, Snowbird, Solitude, and Brighton bring unique flavor to the Utah skiing experience. With consistent snow conditions, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and various resorts, it’s no wonder that Utah continues to be a top destination for skiers and snowboarders year after year. Whether you’re an expert seeking untouched powder or a family looking for an enjoyable winter getaway, Utah’s ski resorts have it all.
