The 6 Best Utah Ski Resorts

Interested in Utah ski resorts? Look no further…

Often underrated, Utah is fast becoming one of the best destinations for ski travel in the world.

Skiers and snowboarders alike praise the depth of the light and fluffy powder on the Utah mountain slopes — so much so that Utah state prides itself on having the ‘greatest snow on Earth’.

There are lots of different resorts from which to explore this winter playground, each one packed with luxury lodgings, spas, bars, and offering excellent cuisine.

Easily reached from Salt Lake City airport, the best ski resorts in Utah offer a wide variety of skiing and snowboarding terrain, as well as plenty of other adventures including backcountry snowmobiling, ice skating, and snow tubing to be had.

Let’s get right down to it…

Contents

1 The Best Utah Ski Resorts

The Best Utah Ski Resorts

If you’re looking to experience some world class ski action, we’ve got all the info you need on the best Utah resorts for snowboarders and the best Utah ski resorts including info on types of terrain, what’s available for different levels of ability, what’s on offer for après ski, and more.

Check out our comprehensive guide below for all the essential lowdown…

Park City Mountain Resort

By Rudi Riet (CC BY-SA 2.0 licence)

The 7,300 acres of the Park City Mountain Resort (this is the largest ski resort in the US) range over 17 peaks, one of which includes an amazingly long run of 3.5 miles.

Alpine heaven.

The highest summit soars into the sky at 10,000 feet, and the overall vertical drop is 3,200 feet.

This colossal mountain benefits from an average of 500 inches snowfall each year, and features around 350 snow packed trails in total, with 8% of those being beginner runs, 42% intermediate, 32% for advanced skiers, and the remaining 18% being dedicated to expert skiers.

Although there are only a small proportion of beginner friendly trails, it shouldn’t be forgotten that this resort is immense, and there are still plenty of good options for beginners and family-friendly “cruiser” runs (kids under 10 years old get to ski for free).

Take a look at this awesome video on making the most of just one day at Park City:

As well as the trails, Park City Mountain boasts 14 bowls and eight terrain parks for snowboarders, serving a range of ability levels and two halfpipes.

Getting around Park City Mountain is almost effortless as it is well known for its highly praised ski lift infrastructure offering 41 ski lifts and a high speed gondola connecting different areas.

Despite all this, Park City Mountain is surprisingly not Utah’s most crowded resort and it’s definitely possible to find some tranquil skiing spots.

After hitting the slopes all day, you’ll be pleased to find some of the best après ski in the US. Ski straight into the High West Distillery for some warming whiskey shots, head down to The Farm restaurant for refined dining and fine wines, or party on late into the night at The Star Bar.

There are three main base areas including the town of Park City itself — a historic silver mining town which can be skied directly into off of the slopes, and which is also home to the famous Sundance Film Festival held in January.

These days the Park City is a vibrant and cosmopolitan town overflowing with excellent shops, restaurants, clubs and bars. 4 miles away, high tech Canyons Village is home to the world’s first heated chairlift and this family friendly village has a busy agenda of events, as well as some world class lodgings.

Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria Park City

Nestled amongst the peaks of the Wasatch Mountains, the 4 star Waldorf Astoria Park City is passionately committed to the comfort of each and every guest.

Elegant and spacious guest rooms and suite feature gas fireplaces and balconies, plus luxurious en suite bathrooms and flat screen televisions.

Dine at the Powder restaurant, where the chef creates elevated comfort food inspired by mountain regions from around the world made from the finest local ingredients.

Relax at the spa, with an indulgent body wrap, therapeutic massage or intense Pilates session.

The hotel also offers a wide variety of experiences such as snowmobiling, snow shoeing, husky dog sledding and more on request, as well as a dedicated gondola to take guests straight to Canyons Village without stress.

Heated alpine swimming pool
Restaurant
Bar
Hot tubs
Fitness center
Spa and wellness center
Dedicated gondola

Snowbird

By Don Ramey Logan (CC BY 4.0 licence)

With snowfall sometimes stretching into June or even July, Snowbird experiences the longest ski season in Utah.

With steep runs up to 2.5 miles long, a vertical drop of 3240 feet and deep powder (average annual snowfall is over 500 inches), Snowbird ski resort is one of the best ski resorts in Utah, and it’s also the most popular with locals who know their stuff.

Covering 2,500 ski-able acres, and with 169 runs serviced by an impressive aerial tram reaching up 11,000 feet, the terrain here offers skiers and snowboarders of all abilities plenty of scope for fun.

Trails are divided up fairly equally, with 27% being suitable for beginners, 38% for intermediates, and 35% for experienced skiers.

There is a wealth of spectacular scenery to enjoy, including natural pipes, bowls and plenty of tree runs.

Snowbird features an good beginners terrain park, and there’s a world renowned mountain school making it a great ski destination for families, but it’s particularly popular with advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders thanks to the challenging terrain.

When it’s time to wind down the most popular destination is The Summit restaurant located 11,000 feet up with magnificent views of Mineral Basin. The nightlife scene at Snowbird is a little lacking compared to other Utah ski resorts.

There is no real resort ‘town’ here, rather a set of lodgings in a small village at the base of the slopes, with a few restaurants, bars and shops — but people who come to Snowbird come for the tremendous skiing itself rather than the après ski.

Where to Stay: Inn at Snowbird

With all the comforts of home, this intimate lodge situated in Snowbird pedestrian village offers a variety of mainly self catering accommodation, from single rooms to apartments sleeping up to 10 guests, the majority of which feature small kitchens, flat screen TVs and cozy fireplaces.

Guests also get free use of the heated outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs, as well as a fitness center with steam room, a games room and free hot drinks to warm you up when you arrive back at the inn.

The Lodge Bistro features a patio and dishes up American / French style cuisine, or if you’re in the mood for a pizza, dine on Italian cuisine at The Wildflower restaurant. Rustic seafood and steak can be enjoyed at The Steak Pit.

For lively après ski the popular Forklift bistro with outdoor seating and a mountain view is ideal for cocktails or a beer or two.

Heated outdoor swimming pool
Fitness center
Games room
Choice of restaurants
Bar

Alta

By Baileypalblue (public domain)

Another big hit with the locals, Alta is a haven for serious skiers.

This is a resort with the minimum of frills — here it’s all about the thrills.

Alta is strictly for skiers, as snowboarding is not permitted — in fact it’s one of the oldest ski areas in the US. However it’s understandable that skiers want to keep Alta all for themselves.

The 2,200 acres benefit from a microclimate and high altitude which means that Alta receives even more snowfall than most other Utah ski resorts — an annual average of 514 inches of soft powder.

The vertical drop here is 2020 feet, and the 116 runs are split into 25% beginner runs, 40% intermediate runs, and 35% advanced/expert runs.

The terrain is challenging and diverse, with steep runs, tree skiing,and rock hucking, but there are also some good cruising slopes for beginners and intermediates, as well as an excellent ski school.

There are only 7 ski lifts at Alta, which means getting to the best areas often requires a bit of a trek.

Alta village remains fairly traditional. There may not be a great amount to do here, but the ambiance is warm and welcoming and it is family friendly.

Shopping, restaurants and bars are a little limited, but this keeps things affordable and there are nevertheless some great restaurants with amazing mountain views, and plenty of places to relax with a drink. Most places close at a sensible hour in order for skiers to hit the slopes nice and early the following day.

Where to Stay: Alta Peruvian Lodge

This all inclusive European style ski lodge was once used as a nurse’s barracks during World War II, and now offers nostalgic charm with a laid back vibe.

Shuttle service, 24 hour hot beverages, nightly movie screenings, and free après-ski treats are just some of the little touches that make this lodge special.

There are also outdoor hot tubs and a heated pool, plus an indoor sauna.

The Peruvian bar with lively après-ski, rustic memorabilia and stunning mountain views is one of the best places to drink in town, and the restaurant offers delicious dining options.

Rooms, suites and dorms are the accommodation options at Alta Peruvian Lodge, all comfortably furnished, and depending on your choice either with en suite or shared bathrooms.

Heated outdoor swimming pool
Hot tubs
Sauna
Bar
Restaurant
Games room

Deer Valley

By Mike Reid (CC BY 2.0 licence)

Ski in style at Deer Valley, one of Utah’s most luxurious ski resorts.

A limited amount of ski lift tickets sold here keep the crowds to a minimum, and the resort is mainly popular with tourists rather than locals.

The ski school here is one of the best in the US, but this is a strictly skiers only resort — no snowboarding allowed.

The clientele who come here to take advantage of the 2,026 acres are well heeled and discerning, so expect prices to be a tad higher than other resorts.

The terrain is mixed, with 101 runs in total. With 27% green runs, 41% blue runs, 27% advanced runs and 5% expert runs, this resort appeals mainly to beginner and intermediate skiers, but there are bowls, chutes, moguls and tree runs for more the more advanced.

Snowfall here is at an annual average of 300 inches, and the vertical drop is 3,000 feet.

Deer Valley is serviced by a total of 21 ski lifts and, as you would expect from a luxury resort, there are ski valets on hand to make your life easier.

Dining is an integral part of the pampering experience at Deer Valley, with world class restaurants offering gourmet cuisine dotted about the resort.

Due to the exclusivity of Deer Valley there’s is not much of a drinking culture here, and the nightlife is on the quiet side. Hotel bars are the place to find the most chic bars for an après ski drink.

Shopping opportunities are a little limited too, as most shoppers head to Park City, but there are some good shops located in the upscale hotels.

Where to Stay: St Regis Deer Valley

Treat yourself to an indulgent stay at this AAA Five Diamond mountainside retreat with world class service and heavenly setting on the alpine slopes.

Hotel guests benefit from ski-in / ski-out access to Deer Valley resort, as well as a private ski beach and ski valet.

Immaculately appointed contemporary rooms and suites have dramatic mountain views and luxurious bathrooms, and most feature balconies and fireplaces.

The beautiful split-level infinity pool is the ideal place to round off a day of adventure sipping a beverage amidst magnificent mountain views.

The exclusive Remède Spa, offers a full suite of body treatments, ranging from massage to facials and more, and there are also saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs.

The restaurant offers exceptional, global flavors in the form of delicious appetizers, gourmet pizzas, side dishes, and accompaniments prepared by a master chef. Wine buffs will love the The St. Regis Wine Vault.

Restaurant
Bar
Heated outdoor infinity pool
Hot tubs, sauna and steam room
Spa and wellness center
Fitness center
Complimentary shuttle service
Butler service

Sundance

The intimate ski resort of Sundance occupies a tranquil and majestic spot against the backdrop of the imposing Mount Timpanogos.

With just 450 acres of ski terrain and 42 runs, Sundance is small in comparison to other Utah ski resorts, but actor Robert Redford chose wisely when he founded this resort set amidst 5,000 acres of protected wilderness.

The runs are separated into 35% for beginners, 45% for intermediates and 19% for advanced skiers, with only 1% deemed expert level. The range of beginner terrain is excellent, there are groomed slopes for the intermediate skiers and snowboarders, and wide, steep bowls for the advanced skiers.

The vertical drop at Sundance is 2,150 feet, and it welcomes an average of 350 inches of snowfall every year. There are just three ski lifts at Sundance, but that’s just about all you need to get access to all the best ski spots.

The resort itself has abundant charm, and in addition to the breathtaking scenery and proximity to nature, has gorgeous accommodations, a super friendly atmosphere, two fabulous restaurants (which just happen to be two of the best in the whole of Utah), a superb bar, and a thriving arts scene.

Shopping is limited, but there are some exquisite paintings, sculptures, jewelry and other locally produced arts and crafts available. Sundance is a stress-free, crowd-free resort, where you feel like part of a big family.

Where to Stay: Sundance Mountain Resort

Surround yourself with stunning original Native American artworks from Robert Redford’s personal collection at the eco-friendly, 4 star Sundance Mountain Resort.

Rustically elegant rooms range in size from a simple double with en suite bathroom up to a mountain loft apartment with full size kitchen, private master bedroom, living room and sleeping loft. Many rooms and suites feature fireplaces and balconies.

Guests are invited to join a daily complimentary yoga session, meditation class, and nature walk.

Sundance’s Spa combines ancient Native American traditions and totally organic products to create a range of healing massages and treatments to soothe body and soul.

For après ski amusement there’s nowhere better than the Owl Bar, an authentic western bar serving an excellent array of local craft beers, wines and spirits in a unique, fun atmosphere with live music.

For authentic Native American inspired fine dining, the highly acclaimed Tree Room restaurant is the perfect, romantic setting, or try some mouthwatering fresh foods made with local organic produce at The Foundry Grill.

2 Free ski lift tickets per room per night
2 restaurants
Bar
Luxury spa
Wellness center

Solitude Resort

By Baileypalblue (public domain)

Solitude resort is well named, as it’s the perfect resort for escaping the crowds.

These super relaxed slopes cover 1,200 acres with 77 runs, wide open bowls, fall line skiing, groomed runs and steep chutes, all serviced by 8 ski lifts.

The vertical drop at Solitude is 2,000 feet, with an average annual snowfall of 500 inches.

Runs are divided up into 10% beginner runs, 40% intermediate runs, 36% advanced runs, and 14% expert runs, making it a favorite among serious skiers. Although the quantity of beginner terrain is limited, it is of good quality, and as a result Solitude is quite popular with families.

Overall though the terrain — including the renowned Honeycomb Canyon — is best suited to high end advanced to expert skiers and snowboarders, who will adore the steep, challenging runs.

The Bavarian-style Solitude village is fairly small and intimate,with a choice of ten different restaurants and some fun après drinks to be had at the Thirsty Squirrel pub, where a fun crowd gather to drink beer and play pool, or for a different atmosphere head to the chic and classy Library Bar for a cocktail or two.

Dinner on the deck at the Honeycomb Grill with awesome mountain views and dynamic, contemporary American cuisine is a must. There is a ski shop and a grocery store in the village, but little else in the way of shopping.

Where to Stay: Solitude Resort and Lodging

Solitude Resort Lodging features a range of rooms and accommodations to suit all budgets.

Just 5 minutes walk from the base ski lift, one, two and three bedroom condos benefit from a sitting area, warm fireplace, kitchen area and complimentary WiFi.

In addition to great slopes access, guests benefit from access to a heated outdoor swimming pool, hot tubs, a state of the art fitness center, sauna, and a games room.

Condos are fully equipped for self catering, but fine dining is available on site at St. Bernard’s restaurant featuring a selection of innovative European cuisine in a casual and comfortable setting.

The stylish Library bar offers a wide selection of fine wines and imported and local beer.