Photo credit: Robb Shirey ww.robbshirey.com
Did you know that Utah has some of the best skiing in North America? Many people head to the slopes in Park City but hidden up in the pristine canyons outside of Salt Lake City; you will find world-class skiing and snowboarding in the Mountain West!
Imagine yourself on the slopes for spring skiing, then visiting a brewery or a whiskey distillery, before winding down at a local theatre after taking in scenery that will knock you off your feet. Depending on what time of year you visit, you just might also get in some great golfing and paddleboarding in nearby lakes, all in the same day! Utah offers an array of outdoor activities because of the mild temperatures in the valley, but the spring skiing is legendary; with the freshest powder, you have likely ever seen.
Photo credit: Tonya Remillard
Brighton Resort
Brighton Resort is Utah’s oldest ski resort; a locals first choice. With an average of over 500 inches of snow each year it is considered one of the most reliable hills for good snow. There is a variety of terrain with narrow chutes, terrain parks and groomed runs for beginners or those who want to take it easy. Less than 30 minutes from Salt Lake City it is less busy than other resorts, and kids 10 and under ski free. Be sure to check out the night skiing, a fun experience for ski enthusiasts who don’t want crowded slopes and are too busy during the day. Brighton offers groomed runs, good lighting and even terrain parks for evening skiing. www.brightonresort.com
Park City Mountain Resort
Park City is an old western mountain mining town, host to the Olympic giant slalom; snowboard parallel giant slalom, and snowboarding half pipe! With over 7300 skiable acres, Park City Mountain Resort is the most extensive ski resort in the United States. Everyone seems to want to ski Park City for the nostalgia; who knows who you will see on the hill since Park City is also home to the Sundance Film Festival. The main lift, set in the heart of Park City, is a quick ride and allows you to look over the charming mining town while you whisk to the top of the hill. www.parkcitymountain.com
Photo credit: Tonya Remillard
Deer Valley Ski Resort
The best thing about Deer Valley is the incredible amenities offered at this ski resort. It is important to note that there are only skiers allowed at this resort, no snowboarding – sorry boarders! The resort is pricey, but the gourmet food choices, a top-notch ski school, and fast lifts place this ski resort on par with Whistler-Blackcomb and Vail. www.deervalley.com
Snowbasin Resort
Snowbasin is located a quick 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. The vertical lifts offer a solid mix of terrain. One of oldest resorts in the country, Snowbasin has a beautiful lodge that was built for the 2002 Olympics with a scrumptious array of dining choices. Compared to other hills in Cottonwood Canyons, Snowbasin is not going to be as crowded, and it feels like the best-kept secret in the industry regarding the quality of ski and amenities provided. There are chutes, treed gullies and wide open terrain bowls to ski. www.snowbasin.com
Photo credit: Robb Shirey ww.robbshirey.com
Alta
Another ski-only spot, Alta offers epic skiing for advanced skiers. The terrain at Alta is downright crazy and challenging. With an average snowfall around 551 inches a year, Alta boasts the most snow around. The incredible powder from the steep, ungroomed runs makes Alta a popular choice for powder-loving skiers. www.alta.com
Snowbird
With a north-facing slope, the powder is fresh at Snowbird; it’s puffy light and resists early snowmelt, offering a long ski season, so spring skiing – here I come! I don’t recommend this resort for beginners as the challenging terrain can be difficult for novices! There are well-groomed blue runs and some easy black runs but be prepared to be challenged. One of the most exciting things is that you will find a tunnel through the top of the mountain, like a conveyor belt moving you through the backside of the hill. The network of lifts is well done, giving you access to excellent runs. www.snowbird.com
By Tonya Remillard
Tonya Remillard grew up in Calgary Alberta, currently teaches science in Utah with an emphasis in STEM education. As an educator and copywriter, Tonya loves to explore new places. Starting and running her first business early on, her adventurous spirit and business travels brought her around the world exploring and taking a liking to some of her unique travel experiences.
