The Best Place to Ski in Utah
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Utah is a skier’s paradise, with world-class ski resorts located throughout the state. Whether you’re looking for powdery slopes or groomed trails, Utah has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best places to ski in Utah according to your preferences. We’ll also provide some tips for first-time skiers!
Where is the Skiing in Utah
The snow in Utah is heralded as the “Greatest Snow on Earth” and certainly Utah is one of the best ski destinations in the US. So you might be wondering where to ski in Utah. Fortunately, there are many great Utah ski resorts, but which one is the best? The answer depends on what you are looking for and the passes you have (or don’t have). Some people prefer smaller resorts with fewer crowds, while others prefer the big resort experience with all of the bells and whistles.
Here is a map of where to ski in Utah based on your preferences and passes. Please note that the large majority of these ski spots surround Salt Lake City. Check out this post for things to do in Salt Lake City in the winter if you have some extra time on your trip.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You Have the Ikon Pass
Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of the best places to ski in Utah if you have the Ikon Pass. It is located a short drive away from downtown Salt Lake City making it very accessible if you are visiting on a weekend trip. Big Cottonwood Canyon is home to two world-class resorts, Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton, which offer a variety of trails for skiers of all levels.
Solitude Mountain Resort is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding in the United States. Located in the heart of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, Solitude offers breathtaking views, world-class terrain, and a variety of slopeside lodging options. Solitude has over 1,200 acres of skiable terrain and an average of 500 inches of annual snowfall. If you have the Ikon Pass, Solitude has unlimited days of availability making it the perfect option. In addition to its excellent skiing and snowboarding, Solitude is also known for its friendly atmosphere and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for a challenging run or a relaxed day on the slopes, Solitude is the perfect place to enjoy a winter vacation.
Brighton is a great place to ski and snowboard. The mountain is well-groomed and there are plenty of beginner-friendly runs. The vibe of Brighton is a lot more relaxed than other Utah ski resorts making it very popular with snowboarders. Brighton also has a good terrain park, with a variety of features for all levels of riders. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can try skiing or riding in the back bowls. And on a powder day, Brighton is one of the best places to be. With its location in the Cottonwoods, Brighton usually gets great snow conditions. The resort is well-known for its night skiing, which is a great way to make the most of the slopes after a long day on the mountain. If you are skiing on the Ikon Pass, Brighton does require reservations for this ski season.
Big Cottonwood Canyon is also known for its spectacular scenery, with towering cliffs and pristine powder. And with the Ikon Pass, you’ll have access to Solitude, Brighton and other great ski resorts in Utah and all over the world. You can find the list of all the Utah ski resorts covered by the Ikon Pass here. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time skier, Big Cottonwood Canyon is the perfect place to hit the slopes.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You Have the Epic Pass
Park City Mountain Resort is a great place to enjoy skiing and snowboarding and it is the only place to ski in Utah on the Epic Pass. Park City Mountain Resort is located in Park City, Utah, just a short drive from Salt Lake City and the airport. Because of the convenient location it is a great place for a weekend getaway.
A few years ago, Park City merged with Canyons Resort. Now with over 7,000 acres of terrain, Park City Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. Park City Mountain Resort is also home to the largest superpipe in the world, making it a mecca for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.
Park City Mountain Resort also offers a variety of activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and apres ski. Tourist will appreciate that Park City is a vibrant downtown with a variety of things to do. There are plenty of shops to browse, restaurants to eat at, and bars to enjoy. Park City also has a lively nightlife scene, with clubs and live music venues to keep you entertained. If you’re looking for something more cultural, Park City has museums and art galleries to explore. And if you’re looking to get active, there are parks and trails to hike or bike. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or a day of exploring, Park City has something for everyone.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You Have the Mountain Collective Pass
Alta and Snowbird are two of the most popular skiing destinations in the United States. You are in for a treat if you have the Mountain Collective Pass, a group of ski areas that offer a joint lift ticket, as a weekend at Alta and Snowbird will offer great powder and fun. Together, Alta and Snowbird offer skiers and snowboarders a combined total of 7,000 acres of skiable terrain. Alta and Snowbird are known for their excellent snow conditions and challenging terrain.
Alta is one of the most popular skiing destinations in Utah and for good reason. The resort has a long history dating back to the 1930s, when it was founded as a members-only ski club. Alta is one of only three remaining ski areas in North America that does not allow snowboarding. It has 2,200 acres of skiable terrain with a base elevation of 8,530 ft and a summit elevation of 10,550 ft. Alta receives an average of 500 inches (1,270 cm) of snow per year making it a true winter wonderland.
Alta offers stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains, as well as a variety of trails for skiers of all levels. If you’re lucky enough to have a Mountain Collective Pass or an Ikon Pass, you can enjoy access to Alta’s world-class slopes. Whether you’re looking for a challenging run or a leisurely cruise down the mountain, Alta is the perfect place to get your ski fix.
Snowbird is one of the most popular skiing and snowboarding destinations in the world. The resort is located in the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains, and its base elevation is 7,710 feet. Snowbird offers a wide variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Snowbird receives an average of 500 inches of snow each year, making it one of the snowiest places in the United States.
In addition to its massive snowfall, Snowbird is also known for its varied terrain. The resort has 33 lifts that service 138 trails, and there are options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. For those looking for a truly unique experience, Snowbird also offers heli-skiing, which allows guests to access remote areas of the mountain by helicopter. Heli-skiing is a great way to explore the backcountry and get fresh powder turns, and snowbird offers some of the best heli-skiing in the world. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable skiing or snowboarding experience, Snowbird is the place to be.
A weekend at Alta and Snowbird is a great idea if you have the Mountain Collective Pass. This is an affordable way to experience all that these two mountains have to offer. They offer a wide variety of trails for all levels of skiers, making them a great destination for both beginners and experts.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You Like Groomed Slopes
Deer Valley Resort is a ski area located in the Wasatch Range of Utah, United States. The resort, which opened in 1981, is known for its upscale amenities and Ski School instruction. Deer Valley has consistently been rated among the top ski resorts in North America.
Deer Valley is one of only three remaining ski areas in North America that do not allow snowboarding (the other two being Alta Ski Area and Nannup Province Park in Canada). The Deer Valley website says that the decision was made “in order to preserve the quality skiing experience Deer Valley offers its guests.”
Deer Valley has 21 lifts, including one high-speed gondola, and 100 marked trails spread out over six peaks. The resort is known for its well-groomed slopes, which are groomed nightly. It is the best resort if you are not used to skiing powder or have spent a lot of time skiing on the east coast. Deer Valley also offers a variety of lodging options, from luxury hotels to private condominiums.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You Like Powder
Alta is one of the best places to ski in Utah, and for good reason. Nestled in the Wasatch mountains of Utah, Alta receives an average of 560 inches of snow each year, making it a paradise for powder hounds. In addition to its impressive snowfall, Alta is also known for its steep and challenging terrain. With over 2,200 acres of skiable terrain, Alta has something to offer skiers of all levels. Intermediate skiers can enjoy wide open bowls and groomed cruisers, while advanced skiers can test their skills on Alta’s world-famous chutes. No matter what your level of experience, Alta is sure to give you the ski vacation of a lifetime.
Powder Mountain is a world-renowned ski resort located in Utah. Powder Mountain has some of the best skiing in the world, with over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain, 3,000 acres of backcountry powder, and a vertical drop of 2,800 feet. This destination is also home to the largest night skiing operation in North America. Powder Mountain is a great place to ski for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. Powder Mountain has something for everyone, so come and enjoy the powder!
Sundance Mountain Resort is another great place to go if you like powder since it is tucked away in the stunning Wasatch Mountains of Utah.
Cradled within this untamed natural scenery, travelers can look forward to an extraordinary and refreshing getaway.
To access Sundance Mountain Resort, fly into Salt Lake City International Airport and take a scenic one-hour drive northeast into the Wasatch Mountains, following signs to the resort.
Once there, check into a room at The Sundance Suites since they offer a rustic yet elegant atmosphere, while the Treehouses provide a unique lodging experience amidst the areas vast forests.
Moreover, the best time to ski at Sundance is from December through March when the resort’s 450 acres of skiable terrain cater to beginners and experts, making it one of the best places to ski in Utah.
The Sundance Nordic Center also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures for those seeking an alternative to downhill skiing.
Beyond skiing, Sundance offers year-round summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fly fishing.
Additionally, art lovers can explore the resort’s galleries, showcasing local talent. For relaxation, indulge in spa treatments or unwind by the fire pit.
Lastly, before you go, don’t forget to check the weather forecast, dress in layers for changing mountain weather, and make reservations for activities and dining, as the resort can get busy.
Best Place to Ski in Utah if You are Learning to Ski
If you’re looking for a place to hit the slopes, Snowbasin is a great option. Located in Utah, Snowbasin offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Snowbasin is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Snowbasin receives an average of 400 inches of snow each year, making it a paradise for powder hounds. In addition to its impressive size and abundant snowfall, Snowbasin is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere and impeccable grooming.
Snowbasin also has a very unique Learn & Earn program. This allows guests to take lessons from certified instructors and then apply their new skills on the slopes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, Snowbasin is a great place to enjoy the winter months.
Best Place to Ski in Utah to Avoid the Crowds
Nestled atop the towering red rocks of Southern Utah, Brian Head Resort is a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders. With an average of 400 inches of snow each year, the resort boasts some of the best conditions in the state. But what really sets Brian Head apart is its lack of crowds. Even on weekends, lift lines are virtually non-existent. This means you can spend more time on the slopes and less time waiting in line.
Brian Head also offers a variety of terrain options, from beginner-friendly slopes to advanced runs. Best of all, Brian Head is less than a two-hour drive from Las Vegas, making it a convenient getaway for skiers and snowboarders who live in the area. So if you’re looking for a great place to hit the slopes without the crowds, be sure to check out Brian Head Resort in Utah.
Best Place to Ski in Utah for Après Ski
If you are looking for the best places to ski in Utah that also offer après ski options nearby, the ski resorts in Park City are your best bet. The Park City resorts include Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and Woodward Park City.
Après ski is a time-honored tradition in Park City, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back après spot to relax with a beer or an adventurous après activity to get your adrenaline pumping, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Park City.
For après ski activities, some of the most popular options include tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing. And of course, no après ski is complete without a delicious meal and a few drinks. There are plenty of great après ski spots in Park City, so you’re sure to find the perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day on the slopes.
Best Place to Ski in Utah for Terrain Parks
Woodward Park City is the perfect place to enjoy a winter day, whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder looking for a challenge, or you’re just getting started on the slopes. The terrain park is especially popular with young people and it is filled with exciting features like jumps and rails. If showing off your tricks isn’t your style, the snowtubing hill is the perfect place to relax and have some fun. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor, Woodward Park City has something to offer everyone.
Best Place to Snowboard in Utah
Two places to ski in Utah (Alta and Deer Valley) do not allow snowboarding. So where is the best place to Snowboard in Utah? With its world-class resorts, Utah is a mecca for snowboarders from all over the world. Brighton and Snowbird are two of the most popular snowboarding destinations in Utah. Both of these cater heavily toward the snowboarding community. Brighton is known for its wide open terrain and long runs. Snowbird, on the other hand, is famous for its steeps and deep powder. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snowboarder, you’ll find plenty of challenge at both Brighton and Snowbird. So if you’re looking for some great snowboarding this winter, be sure to check out both of these Utah resorts.
Best Place to Ski in Utah FAQs
What Ski Resort Should I go to in Utah?
When it comes to hitting the slopes, you’ve got some fantastic options, Check out Snowbasin, Snowbird, Brighton Resort, or Sundance for an all-American ski adventure tailored to your preferences.
Where is the Best Place for Snow in Utah?
In Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon, you’ll discover four of North America’s most snow-drenched ski resorts.
In fact, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude all sit among the top six resorts in North America with top snow rankings.
What is the Most Visited Ski Resort in Utah?
Park City Mountain Resort is one of the biggest ski destinations in the USA. It proudly holds the title of Utah’s most frequented ski resort, attracting countless snow bunnies with its exceptional slopes.
Does Utah Have Good Skiing?
There’s no better place for ski lovers than Utah. With an incredible 500 inches of annual snowfall and over a dozen top-notch ski resorts, it’s a winter sports paradise.
Where to Ski in Utah
There are many great ski resorts in Utah, but which one is the best? That depends on what you are looking for and hopefully this post helped you figure out which spot is the best place to ski in Utah for you. So where are you headed to ski first?
You May Also Enjoy These Posts:
- 13 Things to do in Salt Lake City in the Winter
- Best Ski Destinations in the US
- Snow Tubing in Park City
- Utah Ski Resorts: Review from a Local Skier
- 21 Places to Visit in Utah that aren’t National Parks
- Best Time of Year to Visit Utah
- How to Wash a Ski Jacket
- Best Salt Lake City Winter Hiking Trails
Let’s Stay in Touch…
Andrea Cannon is a pharmacist, triathlete, gratitude practicer, and avid traveler. For both business and pleasure, she has taken more than 250 flights yearly for the past 3 years. In addition to being a travel hacking enthusiast, Andrea enjoys hiking and spending time with her husband (Austin) and dog (Dex). You can connect with her via her blog www.beaUTAHfulworld.com or on Instagram @andreafcannon .
8 thoughts on “The Best Place to Ski in Utah”
Thanks for such a great write up! I love the mountain views in your photos – absolutely stunning!
Thank you so much Lisa!
Utah is so beautiful!! I’m admittedly not much of a skier, but I’d love to visit in the winter. And I’d definitely be game for the apres-ski lol
Fortunately there is so much more to do than skiing! But yes to the apres!
I’ve never skied before, but I have done snowboarding a few times in the past. Snowbasin sounds like a good place to start!
I always fantasize about skiing at least once in my life but I don’t know if I can. I am too scared to do it. But that apart what a fantastic post. I didn’t know there were skiing places in Utah! Lovely.
Yes! They actually had the 2002 winter olympics here! I do hope you get to ski!!
Great post and your photos are so amazing. I have not skied in Utah but have in Tahoe and a few other areas. Being from Washington State we have great skiing there! I will save this for when I do get to Utah.