Top Ski Resorts in Utah
Utah is known for its world-class ski resorts, and for good reason. With some of the best snow on the planet and a wide range of terrain, it’s no wonder that skiers and snowboarders flock to the Utah each winter. If you’re planning a ski trip to Utah, you’re in luck – here are the top 5 ski resorts in Utah, you won’t want to miss.
No matter which ski resort you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable time on the slopes in Utah. So let’s dive in to the top ski resorts in Utah, and what is unique about each one.
Alta Ski Resort
Tucked away at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Alta is located just under and hour from downtown Salt Lake City, and is well known for its deep powder and challenging terrain. Alta opened in 1938 and was the second resort to open in the western ski region. With 2,614 acres of skiable terrain, there’s challenging terrain for experts, but 45% of the mountain is dedicated to beginner and intermediate terrain for skiers of all levels.
PLEASE NOTE: Alta is one of two ski resorts in Utah, that DOES NOT allow snowboarders, which means the slopes are less crowded and the powder stays fresher longer.
Alta Ski Resort is a skier’s paradise – a true utopia for those who live for the thrill of carving up the mountain.
As mentioned, one of the biggest aspects that sets Alta apart from other ski resorts is its no-snowboarding policy. That’s right, Alta is one of the few ski resorts in the country that doesn’t allow snowboarders on the slopes. Now, before you snowboarders (including me) get our boards in a twist, their reasoning is this: Alta’s policy is actually a result of the resort’s commitment to preserving the quality of the snow. Since snowboarders tend to ride differently than skiers (and let’s face it, they can be a bit rougher on the mountain), Alta’s no-snowboarding policy helps keep the slopes in top shape for skiers.
So if you’re a skier looking for uncrowded slopes and fresh powder, Alta is the place for you. And with a variety of runs for all levels of skiers, from bunny hills to black diamonds, Alta has something for everyone. So if you want unique ski-only mountain, head to Alta for the ultimate ski experience – just leave your snowboard at home!
Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort
One of my personal favorites, Snowbird Resort is located in the Wasatch Range, just before Alta in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Snowbird is known for its long ski season – the resort typically opens in November and stays open until May. The Aerial Tram is one of the most iconic ski lifts in the country, and can carry up to 125 passengers at a time to the top of the 11,000 foot summit of Hidden Peak! With over 2,500 acres of breathtaking terrain, Snowbird is a worthy destination for any winter sports enthusiast.
Snowbird is one of the top ski resorts in Utah for a variety of reasons.
First and foremost, Snowbird has a long ski season, typically running from November to May. That means you can hit the slopes at Snowbird almost any time you visit Utah – no need to worry about missing out on the best snow.
But it’s not just the long ski season that makes Snowbird stand out. The resort also has a variety of terrain to choose from. The back bowls in Mineral Basin, provide a challenging and thrilling experience for advanced riders/skiers. And there is plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain for those of you that want to learn and get better. And when you’re not hitting the slopes, there are plenty of non-skiing activities to keep you entertained, such as snowshoeing, aerial tram rides, mountain tours, and winter scenic helicopter rides.
But it’s not all about the mountain at Snowbird. The resort also has plenty of luxurious amenities to keep you comfortable on and off the mountain. The lodges and hotels at Snowbird offer high-end accommodations, and there are plenty of dining and shopping options to choose from. One of the most popular is the Cliff Spa, which features 21 treatment rooms, yoga studio, fitness center, rooftop pool, hot tub and salon. Definitely worth a visit after a long day of skiing. And I highly recommend to stay if you’re coming from out of town, for easy access to the mountain, and top notch amenities.
So if you’re looking for the top 5 ski resorts in Utah that has it all – long ski season, challenging terrain, non-skiing activities, and luxurious amenities – look no further than Snowbird. Pack your skis (or your snowshoes) and head to the Wasatch Range for a ski experience you won’t forget!
Park City Mountain Resort
For one of the biggest experiences in Utah, look no further than Park City. When Park City Mountain Resort combined with Canyons Resort in 2015, it became the largest ski and snowboard resort in the United States. With over 7,300 acres, 300+ trails, 38 lifts, seven terrain parks, one super pipe, and many diverse ski-in/ski-out and village adjacent lodging properties, it is easy to understand why this is one of the top 5 ski resorts in Utah, and a coveted destination for people from all over the world.
In addition to the abundance of slopes for all levels, Park City Mountain Resort also offers a variety of non-skiing activities, such as snowshoeing, sleigh rides, plenty of bars and restaurants, and plenty of other activities to keep you busy.
But Park City is more than just a ski town. In fact, the town has a long and storied history, dating back to the 1800s when it was a bustling silver mining town. These days, Park City is a vibrant and lively place, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping to keep visitors entertained. If you’re looking for a higher class, sit-down dinner, I would highly recommend checking out Riverhorse on Main. And for a more laid back scene, The No Name Saloon is a local favorite.
In the winter, Park City is a haven for skiers and snowboarders, with three world-class ski resorts to choose from: Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and The Canyons Resort (which is now part of Park City Mountain Resort). But the fun doesn’t have to stop when the snow melts. In the summer, Park City offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, hiking, and golfing. To see more about Summer Activities in Park City, check out my other post.
So whether you’re a seasoned skier looking to tackle the challenging terrain at Park City Mountain Resort, or a beginner looking to learn the ropes at one of the ski schools, you will find activities here you love. And with its charming downtown and rich history, you’ll never be at a loss for things to do. So pack your bags, grab your skis (or your mountain bike in the summer), and head to Park City for the ultimate outdoor adventure!
Deer Valley Resort
Speaking of Park city, I have to mention Deer Valley Resort. Located just up the road from downtown Park City, Deer Valley is known for its luxurious amenities and impeccably groomed slopes. With over 2,000 acres of SKI-ONLY terrain, Deer Valley is a favorite among intermediate and advanced skiers, and the resort also offers plenty of other activities outside of skiing as well, which you can check out here.
PLEASE NOTE: DEER VALLEY IS THE OTHER SKI ONLY RESORT. So us boarders, will have to stick to Park City/Canyons Resort. 😉
This is where luxury meets the great outdoors, and the powder is always freshly groomed. This ski-lover’s paradise, is another coveted destination for celebrities and those seeking a higher end experience when visiting the Utah. And while the mountain will certainly put your skills to the test, it’s the resort’s commitment to luxury that truly sets it apart.
Some of the luxurious hotels in Deer Valley include The Stah, The St. Regis, and the famous Stein Eriksen Lodge. This five-star hotel, named after the Norwegian Olympic gold medalist skier, Stein Eriksen, offers ski-in/ski-out access and all the amenities you’d expect from a world-class hotel. There’s a spa, fitness center, and fine dining that will make your taste buds dance. Trust us, one night here and you’ll be convinced that après-ski is just as important as ski-ski. Staying here, you may just run into a celebrity or two… if you can tell who they are with their ski gear on.
As mentioned, Deer Valley is a ski-only resort. While that may sound limiting, it’s actually a stroke of genius for the resort and it’s guests. It keeps the groomed runs in pristine condition, ensuring a top-notch skiing experience for everyone. So, if you’re looking to perfect your turns and not have to dodge boarders, Deer Valley is the place for you. In fact, I rented skis one year, just so I could get a taste of what this mountain has to offer, and I will say, it was definitely worth it.
And because all that skiing and luxury living is sure to work up an appetite, Deer Valley offers a variety of dining options, from casual to refined. If you’re looking for a top-notch dining experience, be sure to check out J&G Grill for their exquisite tasting menu. Or you can cozy up next to a fire at the Fireside Dining restaurant. Another top rated restaurant in Deer Valley. No matter what you choose, you are sure to have a great dining experience. Just be sure to get a reservation, as they do fill up fast in peak season.
If you’re looking for a ski vacation that combines luxury with a playful and fun-filled experience, Deer Valley Resort is the destination for you. Where else can you enjoy impeccable grooming, world-class amenities, and a ski-only policy, all while being surrounded by the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains. The luxury aspect is why Deer Valley makes the list of top 5 ski resorts in Utah. So, grab your skis, pack your designer gear, and get ready for a vacation that will leave you wanting more.
Solitude Mountain Resort
Solitude Mountain Resort, located in the Big Cottonwood Canyon of Utah, is a winter sports paradise for those looking to escape the crowds and long lift lines of other, more popular resorts. Personally, this is where I go when there is a lot of traffic, and other resorts have full parking. This top resort in Utah offers skiers and snowboarders 1,200 skiable acres of diverse terrain, including groomed cruisers, steep chutes, powder-filled bowls, and gladed tree skiing, catering to all levels of skiers and riders.
One of the things that makes Solitude unique is its commitment to preserving the natural environment and its intimate, unspoiled atmosphere. The resort’s focus on preserving the natural landscape gives skiers and snowboarders the opportunity to experience the mountain in its purest form, away from the commercialization and development that can be found at other resorts.
Solitude Mountain Resort also boasts an impressive annual snowfall of over 500 inches, providing skiers and snowboarders with ample opportunity to enjoy the mountain’s deep powder and pristine conditions. The high-altitude base area guarantees light, dry powder snow and great skiing conditions.
If you’re coming from out of town, you can also stay at the luxurious Inn at Solitude. It is a ski-in/ski-out hotel that features a variety of amenities to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible, including a hot tub, fitness center, and on-site dining at the Thirsty Squirrel. The Inn is a great option for those looking to stay close to the slopes and enjoy easy access to the ski runs at Solitude. It’s a perfect place to relax after a long day of skiing or snowboarding.
For these reasons Solitude Mountain Resort makes the list of the top 5 ski resorts in Utah. If you’re a skier or snowboarder looking for an escape from the crowds and long lift lines, check out Solitude. The resort’s commitment to preserving the natural environment and intimate atmosphere make it a unique and special place to experience the beauty of the mountain and the joys of winter sports. Solitude is perfect for those who love skiing and snowboarding and want to experience it in a natural and crowd-free environment.
BONUS: Brighton Resort
Ok. Ok. I know I said I’m going to give you the top 5 ski resorts in Utah, but I couldn’t make this list without including Brighton. Brighton Resort is another resort located in Big Cottonwood Canyon in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah. It is a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With over 1,050 skiable acres, the resort offers a wide variety of terrain, including groomed cruisers, steep chutes, and powder-filled bowls. Similar to Solitude, Brighton is known for its consistent snowfall, receiving an average of over 500 inches of snow per year, as well as its sunny and dry climate, which makes for ideal skiing conditions.
One of the things that sets Brighton apart from other resorts is its laid-back and friendly atmosphere. It is very much a “locals vibe” on the mountain. The staff is dedicated to making sure that every guest has an enjoyable and memorable experience on the slopes. From beginner skiers to experts, everyone will find something to love at Brighton.
Brighton Ski Resort is also one of the top resorts in Utah for night skiing. With its extensive lighting system, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes until 9 PM, making it a great option for those who want to maximize their time on the mountain.
The resort also offers a very casual dining style, because Brighton doesn’t want high food prices to detract you from coming to the mountain. They offer a large dining area where they encourage you to bring your own food and dine out on their patio or in the large dining hall. Pack a lunch for you and the kids and come join us on the mountain.
Speaking of kids, Brighton Ski Resort also has a dedicated children’s ski and snowboard school, where instructors will help children of all ages learn to ski or snowboard in a safe and fun environment. It’s also a great option for parents who want to hit the slopes while their kids take lessons, as childcare is available for children as young as six weeks old.
All in all, Brighton Ski Resort is a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for a friendly and laid-back atmosphere, consistent snowfall, a variety of terrain and top-notch dining and childcare options. If you’re looking for one of the top resorts in Utah, look no further than Brighton Ski Resort.
So there you have it…
Those are my Top 5 Ski Resorts in Utah. There are a few other resorts I didn’t name, but this list is from my top recommendations. If you haven’t been to Utah before, this will give you a great starting point for your research. Two of my top recommendations are Park City for the size of the mountain and bustling night life in the town, and Snowbird for the amazing terrain, and fantastic amenities. If you want the luxury experience, definitely take a quick 5 minute drive up from Park City to see Deer Valley.
Other than that, pack your bags (or your car), and get up to the mountains and explore. See you on the slopes!