Your complete guide to Utah’s world-class ski resorts and winter adventures
Utah’s claim to “The Greatest Snow on Earth” isn’t just marketing hype—it’s backed by science. The state receives an average of 500 inches of light, dry powder annually at high elevations, creating ideal skiing conditions that attract winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. With 15 world-class ski resorts, endless backcountry terrain, and a thriving winter activities scene, Utah offers unforgettable cold-weather adventures for every skill level and budget.
Why Utah Has the Best Snow
Utah’s legendary powder results from a perfect meteorological phenomenon. Storms that originate over the Pacific Ocean lose moisture as they cross Nevada’s mountains, then pick up moisture again from the Great Salt Lake. This process creates exceptionally light, dry snow with low water content—the fluffy powder that skiers dream about. The state’s high-altitude resorts (most with bases above 7,000 feet) receive consistent snowfall from November through April, with peak conditions typically in January and February.
Major Ski Resort Areas
Park City Area Resorts
Park City Mountain Resort
- Location: Park City (35 minutes from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 7,300 acres, 348 trails, 44 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 8% beginner, 52% intermediate, 40% advanced/expert
- What Makes It Special: The largest ski resort in the United States, created by connecting Park City and Canyons. Incredible variety of terrain, excellent grooming, and direct access to Park City’s dining and nightlife.
- Best For: All levels, families, those wanting resort-town atmosphere
- Signature Features: Jupiter Bowl (advanced terrain), Payday lift (fast access), terrain parks
- Average Lift Ticket: $200+ (advance purchase recommended)
Deer Valley Resort
- Location: Park City (40 minutes from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 2,026 acres, 103 runs, 21 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 27% beginner, 41% intermediate, 32% advanced
- What Makes It Special: The only skiers-only resort in Utah (no snowboarding), known for impeccable grooming, exceptional service, and gourmet dining. Limited lift ticket sales prevent overcrowding.
- Best For: Intermediate to advanced skiers, luxury seekers, those avoiding crowds
- Signature Features: Bald Eagle Mountain, Empire Canyon, world-class dining
- Average Lift Ticket: $250+ (most expensive in Utah)
- Important Note: Advanced reservations essential; no snowboarders allowed
Woodward Park City
- Location: Park City (adjacent to Park City Mountain)
- What Makes It Special: Action sports training facility with indoor and outdoor features for skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and BMX
- Best For: Freestyle enthusiasts, families with aspiring action sports athletes
Cottonwood Canyons (30-45 minutes from Salt Lake City)
Alta Ski Area
- Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon
- Stats: 2,614 acres, 116 runs, 15 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 25% beginner, 40% intermediate, 35% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Skiers-only mountain known for incredible powder, challenging terrain, and old-school ski culture. No-frills approach focused purely on the skiing experience.
- Best For: Powder hounds, advanced skiers, purists
- Signature Features: Devil’s Castle, Supreme lift, powder stashes that last days
- Average Lift Ticket: $150-180
- Important Note: Skiers only, no snowboarding
Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort
- Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon (adjacent to Alta)
- Stats: 2,500 acres, 169 runs, 13 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 27% beginner, 38% intermediate, 35% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Legendary steep terrain, iconic aerial tram, some of Utah’s most challenging skiing. Welcomes snowboarders and has a younger, more aggressive vibe than Alta.
- Best For: Advanced/expert skiers and riders, powder seekers
- Signature Features: Hidden Peak (11,000+ feet), Mineral Basin, 125-passenger tram
- Average Lift Ticket: $170-200
Brighton Resort
- Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon
- Stats: 1,050 acres, 66 runs, 7 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 21% beginner, 40% intermediate, 39% advanced
- What Makes It Special: One of Utah’s oldest resorts with excellent terrain parks, night skiing, and a laid-back atmosphere. Great value compared to other Wasatch resorts.
- Best For: Intermediate riders, terrain park enthusiasts, night skiing
- Signature Features: Night skiing, terrain parks, backcountry access
- Average Lift Ticket: $120-140
Solitude Mountain Resort
- Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon
- Stats: 1,200 acres, 82 runs, 8 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 20% beginner, 50% intermediate, 30% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Lives up to its name with fewer crowds and a peaceful vibe. Village at the base provides ski-in/ski-out lodging. Excellent tree skiing.
- Best For: Intermediates, families, those avoiding crowds
- Signature Features: Honeycomb Canyon, tree skiing, village atmosphere
- Average Lift Ticket: $140-160
Northern Utah Resorts
Snowbasin Resort
- Location: Huntsville (1 hour from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 3,000+ acres, 104 runs, 12 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 10% beginner, 60% intermediate, 30% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Site of 2002 Olympic downhill events, world-class grooming, stunning views, and surprisingly uncrowded. Upscale lodges with gourmet dining.
- Best For: All levels, Olympic history enthusiasts, cruisers
- Signature Features: Olympic downhill course, gondola, wide-open cruisers
- Average Lift Ticket: $150-170
Powder Mountain
- Location: Eden (1.5 hours from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 8,464 acres (largest in North America by acreage), 154 runs, 10 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 10% beginner, 50% intermediate, 40% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Massive terrain with minimal crowds, cat skiing included with lift ticket, powder that lasts for days. Hidden gem feel.
- Best For: Powder seekers, advanced skiers/riders, those avoiding crowds
- Signature Features: Cat skiing access, vast terrain, minimal crowds
- Average Lift Ticket: $140-160 (limited daily sales)
Nordic Valley
- Location: Eden (1.5 hours from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 115 acres, 23 runs, 4 lifts
- What Makes It Special: Family-friendly with affordable tickets, night skiing, and a learn-to-ski focus. Perfect for beginners and families.
- Best For: Beginners, families, budget-conscious skiers
- Average Lift Ticket: $60-80
Southern Utah Resorts
Brian Head Resort
- Location: Brian Head (3.5 hours from Salt Lake City, near Cedar City)
- Stats: 650 acres, 71 runs, 8 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 30% beginner, 35% intermediate, 35% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Highest elevation resort in Utah (base at 9,600 feet), sunny southern Utah weather, fewer crowds. Great for families and those combining with southern Utah national park trips.
- Best For: Beginners/intermediates, families, southern Utah travelers
- Signature Features: High elevation, sunny weather, proximity to national parks
- Average Lift Ticket: $100-120
Eagle Point Resort
- Location: Beaver (2.5 hours from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 600 acres, 40 runs, 5 lifts
- What Makes It Special: Small, family-friendly resort with very affordable tickets and almost no crowds. Real small-town ski experience.
- Best For: Families, beginners, budget travelers
- Average Lift Ticket: $60-70
Central Utah Resorts
Sundance Mountain Resort
- Location: Provo Canyon (1 hour from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 450 acres, 45 runs, 5 lifts
- Terrain Breakdown: 20% beginner, 40% intermediate, 40% advanced
- What Makes It Special: Founded by Robert Redford, combining skiing with arts and culture. Intimate, boutique resort experience with upscale dining and lodging. Beautiful tree skiing.
- Best For: Intermediates, couples, those seeking artistic atmosphere
- Signature Features: Arts programs, upscale dining, tree skiing
- Average Lift Ticket: $100-130
Beaver Mountain
- Location: Logan Canyon (2 hours from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 828 acres, 48 runs, 6 lifts
- What Makes It Special: Utah’s oldest ski resort (since 1939), family-owned and operated, affordable prices, old-school ski experience without the crowds or high prices.
- Best For: Families, beginners, budget travelers, nostalgia seekers
- Average Lift Ticket: $70-85
Cherry Peak Resort
- Location: Richmond (1.5 hours from Salt Lake City)
- Stats: 300 acres, 34 runs, 3 lifts
- What Makes It Special: Northern Utah’s newest ski resort, small and family-friendly with affordable prices.
- Best For: Families, beginners, locals
- Average Lift Ticket: $60-80
Beyond Downhill Skiing
Snowboarding
Most Utah resorts welcome snowboarders (exceptions: Alta and Deer Valley are skiers-only). Brighton and Park City are particularly known for excellent terrain parks and halfpipes.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Solitude Nordic Center
- 20+ kilometers of groomed trails
- Backcountry access
- Lessons and rentals available
White Pine Touring (Park City)
- Groomed trails throughout Park City area
- Interconnected trail system
- Excellent for beginners
Homestead Resort Nordic Spa
- Groomed trails around the Homestead Crater
- Combine with hot springs soaking
Mountain Dell Golf Course
- Free cross-country skiing on golf course
- 25+ kilometers of trails
- Close to Salt Lake City
Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding
Utah offers world-class backcountry terrain, but requires proper equipment, avalanche education, and experience:
Popular Backcountry Areas:
- Little Cottonwood Canyon gates (accessed from Alta/Snowbird)
- Big Cottonwood Canyon (Cardiff Fork, Mill B South)
- Wasatch backcountry (American Fork Twin Peaks, Timpanogos)
- Uinta Mountains (various zones)
- La Sal Mountains (near Moab)
Essential Requirements:
- Avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel
- Avalanche education (AIARE Level 1 minimum)
- Current avalanche forecast knowledge (Utah Avalanche Center)
- Experienced partners
- Proper equipment and physical conditioning
Snowmobiling
Popular Areas:
- Mirror Lake Highway (Kamas)
- Bear Lake area
- Strawberry Reservoir
- Brian Head area
- Monte Cristo area (near Woodruff)
Guided Tours Available:
- Multiple outfitters in Park City, Heber, and Logan areas
- Half-day to full-day options
- Equipment rentals included
Dog Sledding
Park City Dog Sledding Tours
- Multiple operators offering tours
- Half-day experiences available
- Combine with resort visits
Tooele County Tours
- Various operators in Wasatch Back
- Scenic mountain tours
Ice Climbing
Popular Spots:
- Provo Canyon (Bridal Veil Falls)
- Little Cottonwood Canyon
- Ouray, Colorado (2-hour drive, world-class ice park)
Tubing and Sledding
Soldier Hollow (Midway)
- Olympic venue turned recreation area
- Tubing lanes and cross-country skiing
Woodward Park City
- Indoor and outdoor tubing
Resort Tubing Parks
- Most resorts offer tubing alongside skiing
Planning Your Ski Trip
When to Go
Early Season (November-December)
- Pros: Smaller crowds, early-bird discounts
- Cons: Limited terrain open, variable conditions
- Best For: Budget travelers, those with flexible schedules
Peak Season (January-February)
- Pros: Best snow conditions, most terrain open, consistent weather
- Cons: Largest crowds, highest prices, potential powder hounds on every run
- Best For: Guaranteed good skiing, those with fixed vacation schedules
Spring Skiing (March-April)
- Pros: Warm weather, corn snow, longer days, spring break deals
- Cons: Slushier afternoons, some terrain closed
- Best For: Sun-worshippers, beginners (more forgiving snow), budget travelers
How Long to Stay
Weekend (2-3 days): Sufficient for sampling 1-2 resorts 4-5 days: Ideal for exploring multiple resorts, rest days Week+: Allows backcountry days, cross-resort exploration, relaxation
Where to Stay
Ski-In/Ski-Out Options:
- Deer Valley (luxury, expensive)
- Park City Mountain (various price points)
- Alta (historic lodges, moderate to expensive)
- Snowbird (various options)
- Solitude (mid-range)
Resort Towns:
- Park City (widest variety, nightlife, dining)
- Salt Lake City (budget option, drive to resorts)
- Heber/Midway (quieter, good access)
- Ogden (access to northern resorts)
Budget Options:
- Salt Lake City hotels (30-60 minutes to resorts)
- Airbnb/VRBO in smaller towns
- Camping (for the hardy)
Transportation
Airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- Direct resort shuttles available
- Rental car provides most flexibility
- Uber/Lyft to Park City available
Getting to Resorts:
- Cottonwood Canyons: Best in all-wheel-drive or 4WD, chains may be required
- Park City: Regular cars usually fine, well-maintained roads
- Northern Resorts: 4WD recommended in heavy snow
- UTA Ski Bus: Public transit option to some Cottonwood Canyon resorts
Resort Shuttles:
- Free shuttles between some resorts (Park City system)
- Paid shuttles from Salt Lake City
- Resort-to-resort services available
Saving Money on Your Ski Trip
Multi-Day Passes
- Ikon Pass: Unlimited or limited days at Deer Valley, Solitude, Brighton, Snowbird (Woodward Park City included)
- Epic Pass: Unlimited days at Park City, limited days at various mountains
- Regional passes: Utah-only options often available
Early-Bird Discounts
- Purchase lift tickets weeks in advance for significant savings
- Season passes pay for themselves in 5-7 days typically
Locals Deals
- Many resorts offer Utah resident discounts
- Off-peak discounts (early season, spring, midweek)
Budget Resort Options
- Eagle Point, Beaver Mountain, Nordic Valley, Cherry Peak
- Midweek skiing at major resorts costs less
Package Deals
- Lodging + lift packages often save money
- Check resort websites for current deals
Essential Ski Gear
Must-Haves
- Ski jacket and pants (waterproof, breathable)
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)
- Goggles (multiple lens colors ideal)
- Helmet
- Gloves or mittens
- Warm socks (avoid cotton)
- Sunscreen (high SPF, mountain sun is intense)
- Lip balm with SPF
Rental vs. Buying
Rent If:
- Skiing fewer than 7 days per year
- Traveling by air
- Trying different equipment
- Kids (they outgrow quickly)
Buy If:
- Skiing 10+ days per year
- Local to Utah
- Wanting better performance
- Long-term commitment to sport
Best Rental Shops:
- Park City (numerous options)
- Salt Lake City (Ski ‘N See, Utah Ski & Golf)
- Resort rental shops (convenient but expensive)
- Online reservations save time
Safety and Etiquette
Altitude Considerations
Utah’s resorts sit at high elevation (7,000-11,000 feet). Take time to acclimate, drink extra water, and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
Weather Preparedness
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always check forecasts, carry extra layers, know where warming huts are located, and don’t ski alone in bad weather.
Slope Etiquette
- Downhill skier has right of way
- Look uphill before merging
- Stop at trail sides, not in middle
- Call out when passing
- Obey all signs and closures
- Control your speed
Avalanche Awareness
Even at resorts, avalanche danger exists:
- Stay within resort boundaries
- Heed avalanche warnings
- Never duck ropes
- Check avalanche forecast daily
- Take avalanche courses if going backcountry
Family-Friendly Skiing
Best Resorts for Families
- Park City: Variety, ski school, childcare
- Deer Valley: Exceptional grooming, no crowds
- Brighton: Affordable, night skiing, good learner terrain
- Sundance: Intimate atmosphere, good beginner terrain
- Beaver Mountain: Budget-friendly, uncrowded
Lessons
All major resorts offer excellent ski schools with programs for ages 3+. Private lessons advance skills fastest but cost more. Group lessons are social and affordable.
Childcare
Many resorts offer daycare services for non-skiing children. Reservations essential during peak times.
After Skiing
Dining in Park City
- High-end: Riverhorse on Main, Blind Dog, Valter’s Osteria
- Mid-range: No Name Saloon, High West Distillery, Riverhorse Provisions
- Casual: Red Rock Brewing, Wasatch Brew Pub, Bangkok Thai on Main
Nightlife
- Park City: Main Street bars, High West Distillery, No Name Saloon
- Snowbird: Tram Club
- Alta: Goldminer’s Daughter
Non-Skiing Activities
- Outlet shopping in Park City
- Historic Main Street Park City
- Park City Museum
- Scenic drives
- Hot springs (Homestead Crater, Midway)
- Spa services at resorts
Spring Skiing and Events
March-April Events
- Snowbird’s spring sessions
- Alta Spring Carnival
- Park City pond skimming
- Various resort closing celebrations
Summer Skiing
Park City Mountain, Snowbird, and other resorts transition to summer activities including mountain coasters, zip lines, hiking, and mountain biking.
Advanced Skier’s Guide
Expert Terrain
- Alta: Devil’s Castle, High Rustler, Supreme Chutes
- Snowbird: Great Scott, Silver Fox, Chip’s Run
- Park City: Jupiter Bowl, McConkey’s Bowl, Pinecone Ridge
- Powder Mountain: Cat skiing terrain, James Peak area
Heli-Skiing
Several operations offer heli-skiing access to Wasatch backcountry:
- Powderbird (based at Snowbird)
- Wasatch Powderbird Guides
- Ruby Mountain Heli-Skiing (Nevada, accessed from Salt Lake)
Utah Skiing Culture
“The Greatest Snow on Earth”
This slogan appears on license plates and represents genuine pride in Utah’s skiing heritage and snow quality.
Local Traditions
- Powder day “calls in sick”
- Pre-dawn parking lot gatherings
- First chair competitions
- Resort loyalty (Alta vs. Snowbird debates)
Community
Utah’s ski community is welcoming and passionate. Join ski clubs, participate in events, and engage with locals for the full experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need four-wheel drive to ski in Utah? A: For Cottonwood Canyons during storms, 4WD or AWD with proper tires is highly recommended. Park City and other areas usually don’t require it, but it helps.
Q: How crowded are Utah resorts? A: Weekends and holidays see crowds at popular resorts. Weekdays are much quieter. Lesser-known resorts rarely have significant crowds.
Q: Can beginners enjoy Utah skiing? A: Absolutely! Every resort has beginner terrain and excellent ski schools. Brighton, Sundance, and Beaver Mountain are particularly beginner-friendly.
Q: Is Utah family-friendly for skiing? A: Very much so. Multiple resorts cater specifically to families with kids’ programs, childcare, and gentle learning terrain.
Q: How expensive is skiing in Utah? A: Ranges from $60/day at small resorts to $250+ at Deer Valley. Multi-day passes reduce daily costs significantly. Season passes offer best value for frequent skiers.
Q: When is the best time for powder? A: January and February typically see the most consistent snowfall, though powder days occur throughout the season.
Q: Can I ski multiple resorts in one day? A: Technically possible but not recommended. Better to ski one resort well than rush between mountains.
Final Tips
- Book Early: Accommodation and lift tickets are cheaper with advance purchase
- Check Conditions: Snow reports and weather forecasts guide mountain choice
- Start Early: Best snow conditions are typically morning
- Stay Hydrated: High altitude and physical activity demand extra water
- Take Lessons: Even experienced skiers benefit from instruction
- Explore Beyond Park City: Utah’s smaller resorts offer great skiing without crowds
- Respect the Mountain: Follow rules, stay in bounds, ski responsibly
Utah’s skiing offers something for everyone, from world-class powder and challenging terrain to family-friendly resorts and budget options. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, Utah’s 15 ski resorts and diverse winter activities provide endless opportunities for cold-weather adventure.
The combination of exceptional snow quality, varied terrain, reasonable prices (compared to Colorado), and easy airport access makes Utah a premier ski destination. Add in the welcoming culture, stunning scenery, and endless adventure options, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable winter experience.
So wax your skis, pack your warmest layers, and prepare to discover why Utah truly has “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” Whether you’re carving groomers at Deer Valley, hunting powder stashes at Alta, or teaching your kids to ski at Beaver Mountain, Utah skiing delivers memories that last long after the snow melts.
See you on the slopes!