Which ski mountain in Utah is the best
Utah stands out as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of adventure opportunities. With its renowned Mighty 5 National Parks and some of the finest ski resorts in the United States, the choices are abundant.
If you’re preparing for a trip to Utah and are unsure which mountains to explore, consider the following top ski resorts to enhance your winter experience.
Accessing Utah’s Ski Mountains
The most convenient airport for accessing the ski resorts mentioned is Salt Lake City International Airport. Many travelers opt to stay in Salt Lake City due to its affordable accommodations and an array of dining options. However, I would argue that Park City is a superior location, especially for those interested in Snowbasin and Powder Mountain, where Ogden may be a more suitable base.
In Park City, you’ll enjoy the mountain atmosphere complemented by breweries and various dining establishments. Although prices may be slightly higher, the vibrant ambiance enhances your stay. Notably, Solitude, Brighton, and Snowbird are only a 45-minute drive from Park City, compared to a 30-minute journey from Salt Lake City. Although Guardsman Pass, the quickest route to the three mountains, is closed in winter, the scenic drive through Salt Lake City on I-80 and I-215, either through Big Cottonwood Canyon or Little Cottonwood Canyon, is breathtaking and well worth the extra time.
Solitude Mountain Resort
True to its name, Solitude provides a tranquil skiing experience with significantly fewer visitors than larger resorts like Park City. This makes Solitude an ideal choice if you wish to escape the crowds and prefer a manageable terrain.
Part of the Ikon Pass, Solitude is located a mere 30-minute drive from Salt Lake City and features a peak elevation of 10,488 ft (3,197 m) across 1,200 skiable acres. The resort offers approximately 10% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 50% advanced terrain across its 82 runs, resulting in a blend of challenges that cater to various skill levels. For levels ranging from intermediate to advanced, the trails offer a fun and enjoyable experience.
Solitude has family-friendly terrain
While dining options are limited at Solitude, the resort’s less commercial atmosphere sets it apart from larger mountains such as Park City, where the town’s appeal significantly contributes to its popularity. For those seeking a day without overcrowded lift lines, Solitude is the perfect choice.
Brighton Ski Resort
Brighton Resort was a pleasant surprise, quickly becoming one of my favorite skiing destinations in Utah. Located just a short drive from Solitude, Brighton is another Ikon Pass mountain known for its family-friendly terrain.
Best small ski mountain in Utah
With an elevation of 10,500 ft and 1,875 vertical feet across 1,050 skiable acres, Brighton receives over 500 inches of snowfall each season. Its 66 trails provide 21% for beginners, 40% for intermediates, and 39% for advanced skiers. While dining options are also limited here, Molly Greens is a recommended spot for those over 21, offering a local vibe and good food.
Snowbird
For more advanced riders, Snowbird is considered an excellent choice due to its expert terrain. However, visiting during “spring skiing” can be less enjoyable due to diminished snow coverage.
This busy mountain, which connects with the skier-only Alta ski area, boasts unique features. Initially, the terrain may not appear typical for a ski resort, presenting a more rugged landscape.
Noteworthy attractions include the tram that accommodates 30 people, which can be a thrilling experience, and the tunnel linking the front and back sides of the mountain, leading you to Mineral Basin. This intriguing walkway takes about 10 minutes to traverse, featuring a fascinating collection of historical photos and props.
Mineral Basin offers a popular skiing area, so arriving early to secure your runs is advisable. The terrain here predominantly includes black and double black diamonds, with limited beginner trails primarily serving as cross-over paths.
The food scene here is engaging, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating options; however, some venues are only open for dinner.
Park City Mountain Resort
Park City is arguably the most popular ski destination in Utah, noted for its enormity and proximity to Woodward Park City, which caters to snowboarders who love terrain parks. With a historic downtown filled with top-notch après-ski venues and an extensive array of slopes, it is certainly a must-visit.
Park City operates under the Epic Pass and is owned by Vail Resorts. While ticket prices may reach approximately $250 per day at the window, savvy travelers can find deals during holiday sales for as low as $85 per day with a multi-day pass.
This mountain offers terrain suitable for all skill levels, but those with only one day should focus on a specific area to fully enjoy the experience without excessive time spent on lifts. The Canyons area provides a unique yet easy experience, adorned with luxury homes that give riders a sense of touring rather than skiing.
Ski into historic Park City
Park City boasts an elevation of 10,026 ft and offers over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain across more than 330 trails, ensuring that you can explore a different run each day. The trail breakdown is approximately 8% beginner, 42% intermediate, and 50% expert, which reflects a surprisingly ample amount of beginner-friendly trails considering some of the intermediate routes.
The historic downtown area boasts numerous dining options, including choices right on the mountain, enriching your experience with quality fare after a day on the slopes.
Powder Mountain
Recognized as a “locals’ mountain,” Powder Mountain is one of Utah’s best-kept secrets, ideal for those who enjoy off-trail riding. The resort limits daily ticket sales, so early planning is recommended. Notably, beginning in 2024, the terrain will see some divisions, reserving particular areas for individuals with property at the mountain, while enhancing several lifts and lowering night skiing prices to under $20.
Powder Mountain has the most open terrain
Powder Mountain features some of the most expansive skiable territory in the country, receiving approximately 300 inches of snow annually, predominantly on ungroomed trails. For those who prefer groomed slopes, options may be limited here.
Snowbasin Resort
Another incredible destination, Snowbasin, can occasionally feel overcrowded. However, its outstanding facilities make it worth visiting. Conveniently located near Ogden, it pairs nicely with a trip to Powder Mountain, creating a perfect day for those wishing to explore the northern Utah terrain.
Snowbasin underwent significant renovations for the Winter Olympics, resulting in top-notch facilities. As of the 2022-23 ski season, it has joined the Ikon Base Plus Pass.
Final Thoughts
Utah offers an impressive array of winter activities, making it impossible to run out of options. Even in winter, the opportunity to ski one day and embark on a hike the next exemplifies the beauty of life elevated in this magnificent state.
