Utah offers some of the most iconic skiing experiences in the world, and Salt Lake City serves as the ideal gateway to these resorts. With diverse terrains, remarkable powder, and stunning mountain views, Utah’s ski resorts cater to every type of skier, from beginners to advanced thrill-seekers. This guide focuses on the best resorts within driving distance from Salt Lake City, featuring insights from my own visits, plus recommendations for a memorable ski adventure.
1. Snowbird Ski Resort
Location and Access
- Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon, 29 miles from Salt Lake City
- Getting There: Drive southeast from Salt Lake City via I-215 and UT-210. The route winds through Little Cottonwood Canyon, which can be snowy, so winter tires or chains are recommended.
Overview and Scenery
Snowbird is known for its steep, powder-filled slopes and impressive vertical terrain. Set within a dramatic canyon, Snowbird’s aesthetic is just as breathtaking as its runs. The Tram to Hidden Peak, one of Snowbird’s unique features, takes skiers to an elevation of 11,000 feet, offering panoramic views and access to varied terrain.
Personal Experience
I arrived early in the morning, securing one of the limited parking spots close to the base. My favorite part was riding the Tram, watching the snow-clad mountains open up before me as we climbed. Chip’s Run, a 2.5-mile scenic trail, was a highlight—especially during sunrise, when the light glinted off the powder.
Dining Options
- The Aerie Restaurant & Lounge: Located at the top of the Cliff Lodge, this spot offers a fine dining experience with locally-sourced ingredients.
- The Forklift: A casual option at the Snowbird Center, perfect for a hearty breakfast to start the day.
Amenities
- Lodging: The Cliff Lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access, a luxurious spa, and an extensive pool area with views of the slopes.
- Ski Rentals: Snowbird provides on-site rentals at the Snowbird Center, offering premium equipment for both skiing and snowboarding.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Spectacular views, challenging terrain, high-quality dining.
- Cons: Less suitable for beginners, higher lift prices, parking can be limited.
Booking Platform
I recommend booking lift tickets and lodging through Snowbird’s official website to secure the best deals. They offer discounts on multi-day passes, especially if booked in advance.
2. Park City Mountain Resort
Location and Access
- Location: Park City, 32 miles from Salt Lake City
- Getting There: Drive east on I-80, then take UT-224 into Park City. The road is well-maintained and easily accessible.
Overview and Scenery
Park City Mountain Resort spans over 7,300 acres, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the country. It combines scenic beauty with a massive variety of runs for all skill levels, from gentle beginner trails to challenging black diamonds.
Personal Experience
Park City’s charm lies in its diversity. I enjoyed Silver King for high-speed runs, but also loved the quieter, forested Thaynes Canyon area. After a day on the slopes, the historic Main Street in Park City is an ideal place to unwind with art galleries, shops, and vibrant nightlife.
Dining Options
- Mid-Mountain Lodge: Known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious meals, Mid-Mountain Lodge offers hearty comfort foods.
- The Farm: Located in Canyons Village, this restaurant serves farm-to-table meals featuring local ingredients.
Amenities
- Lodging: The Grand Summit Hotel provides direct access to the slopes, a heated outdoor pool, and scenic rooms with mountain views.
- Ski Rentals: Park City offers rentals through several outlets, with discounted rates for online pre-booking.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Extensive terrain, vibrant après-ski, suitable for all levels.
- Cons: Crowds during peak season, pricier accommodations.
Booking Platform
The Epic Pass website is a great platform to book both lift tickets and lodging, offering package discounts and flexibility to ski at multiple resorts in the area.
3. Alta Ski Area
Location and Access
- Location: Little Cottonwood Canyon, adjacent to Snowbird
- Getting There: Located 28 miles from Salt Lake City, the route to Alta is the same as Snowbird’s. Arrive early to secure parking, or use the ski bus.
Overview and Scenery
Alta is a skier-only resort, offering powder-filled trails and a classic mountain ambiance. The runs here are unspoiled and perfect for powder enthusiasts, with a mix of open bowls and tree-lined trails.
Personal Experience
My experience at Alta was peaceful and immersive. I started with Albion Basin for gentle, scenic trails, then moved to Supreme for more challenging runs. Alta’s appeal lies in its back-to-basics vibe, and I felt at one with the mountain while navigating its deep snow and quiet trails.
Dining Options
- Alf’s Restaurant: Located at the base of the Sugarloaf lift, Alf’s serves quick, tasty meals with a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Amenities
- Lodging: The Alta Lodge is one of the resort’s few options, with cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Ski Rentals: Alta offers ski rentals on-site with high-quality equipment and personalized fitting.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Skier-only experience, uncrowded runs, deep powder.
- Cons: Limited amenities, no snowboarders allowed.
Booking Platform
Alta’s lift tickets are best booked directly through Alta’s official website for simplicity and to access discounts on multi-day passes.
Recommended Resorts for Additional Activities
4. Deer Valley Resort
Overview and Experience
- Location: Park City, approximately 36 miles from Salt Lake City.
- Getting There: Easily accessible via a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City along I-80 and UT-224. Parking is well-organized, and valet options are available at certain lodges.
Highlights: Known for its skier-only policy, Deer Valley prides itself on impeccable grooming, luxurious lodgings, and top-notch service. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking an upscale skiing experience. The well-maintained runs, combined with limited lift ticket sales, keep the slopes uncrowded, allowing for a relaxed and high-quality skiing environment.
Dining Recommendations:
- Royal Street Café: Famous for its bison chili and a stunning deck with views of the mountains, this spot is ideal for a lunch break.
- Goldener Hirsch Restaurant: Offering a European-inspired menu, this elegant restaurant in Silver Lake Village is the go-to spot for fine dining.
Activities Beyond Skiing:
- Snowshoeing and Hiking: The resort offers guided snowshoe tours along tranquil trails, a great way to see the scenic winter landscape without skis.
- Apres-Ski at The St. Regis: The St. Regis offers a cozy outdoor fire pit and a unique champagne sabering ceremony every evening, which adds a touch of luxury to the après-ski experience.
My Experience:
During my stay, I was struck by Deer Valley’s attention to detail, from the friendly valet service to the care taken in grooming the slopes. After a morning of smooth skiing, I spent an afternoon savoring local dishes and watching the sunset from the outdoor deck.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Luxurious amenities, fewer crowds, excellent dining options.
- Cons: Higher cost, skier-only access (no snowboarding allowed).
Booking Tips:
To get the best rates and package deals, check Deer Valley’s official website or third-party platforms like Ski.com.
5. Solitude Mountain Resort
Overview and Experience
- Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon, 30 miles from Salt Lake City.
- Getting There: Accessible via a scenic 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City on UT-190. Parking is free, but spaces are limited, so early arrival is recommended.
Highlights: True to its name, Solitude is a peaceful resort that provides a more intimate skiing experience. With fewer crowds and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal for families, beginners, and those looking to unwind. Solitude is also known for its varied terrain, which ranges from gentle groomers to advanced tree runs.
Dining Recommendations:
- Honeycomb Grill: A favorite for its fresh ingredients and creative dishes. Try the bison burger for a taste of local flavors.
- Roundhouse: A unique spot serving Indian and Himalayan cuisine—a surprising yet delightful departure from typical ski fare.
Activities Beyond Skiing:
- Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing at the Solitude Nordic Center: The Nordic Center offers miles of groomed cross-country trails, as well as snowshoeing paths that lead through serene, snow-covered landscapes.
- Ice Skating: Solitude’s quaint ice rink in the village center is perfect for a leisurely skate after a day on the slopes. Skates are available to rent, and there’s a fire pit nearby for warming up.
My Experience:
I loved the quiet atmosphere at Solitude; it felt like I had the mountain to myself at times. The varied terrain was perfect for a day of exploration. Ending the day with a hot chocolate by the ice rink fire pit was the perfect way to unwind.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Less crowded, peaceful ambiance, excellent cross-country trails.
- Cons: Limited dining and nightlife options, fewer advanced runs.
Booking Tips:
Booking lift tickets online through the Ikon Pass website can offer savings, and combining it with lodging packages on Solitude’s website often yields better rates.
6. Brighton Resort
Overview and Experience
- Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon, neighboring Solitude.
- Getting There: It’s a scenic 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City, with easy access on UT-190. Parking is free, but fills up quickly on weekends.
Highlights: Brighton is known for being family-friendly, budget-conscious, and unpretentious. It offers excellent night skiing, making it an exciting option for those looking to extend their time on the slopes. The terrain variety is ideal for beginners and intermediates, with plenty of challenging runs and tree skiing options for more advanced skiers.
Dining Recommendations:
- Molly Green’s Tavern: A cozy spot with log cabin vibes, serving comfort foods like burgers and nachos. It’s a favorite among locals.
- Alpine Rose: Known for its casual, cafeteria-style dining, it’s a convenient stop for a quick bite.
Activities Beyond Skiing:
- Night Skiing: Brighton’s extensive night skiing is one of its best features, offering a unique experience with well-lit runs.
- Backcountry Skiing: For adventurous skiers, Brighton has a reputation as a gateway to backcountry trails, accessible from the resort.
My Experience:
Brighton has a laid-back vibe that feels welcoming and authentic. The night skiing was a standout experience, offering a different perspective on the mountain as the lights twinkled in the snow. Molly Green’s was the perfect post-ski spot with its warm, rustic atmosphere.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Affordable, night skiing available, family-friendly.
- Cons: Limited dining options, smaller resort area.
Booking Tips:
Brighton offers affordable lift tickets, especially if you book through their official website in advance. Multi-day passes are also available at a discounted rate.
7. Sundance Mountain Resort
Overview and Experience
- Location: South of Salt Lake City, in Provo Canyon.
- Getting There: It’s an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City via I-15 and UT-92, passing through scenic canyon landscapes. Parking is convenient, but shuttle service is also available from select nearby areas.
Highlights: Founded by Robert Redford, Sundance is more than a ski resort—it’s a destination focused on art, nature, and sustainability. The resort exudes a rustic charm with its emphasis on eco-friendly practices and tranquil, scenic surroundings. Skiing here is laid-back, and the resort’s focus on cultural experiences, such as art workshops, sets it apart.
Dining Recommendations:
- The Tree Room: A fine dining option with an elegant, rustic ambiance, The Tree Room offers seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
- Foundry Grill: A more casual choice serving classic American cuisine with mountain views.
Activities Beyond Skiing:
- Art Classes at The Art Shack: Sundance offers pottery and jewelry-making classes, providing a creative outlet and a unique way to take home a handmade souvenir.
- Guided Snowshoe Tours: Sundance’s guided snowshoe tours take you through serene forests with panoramic mountain views—a refreshing way to experience the resort’s natural beauty.
- Film Screenings: During the winter months, Sundance occasionally hosts screenings, providing a nod to its famous film festival roots.
My Experience:
Sundance felt like a retreat rather than just a ski trip. The peaceful, artistic vibe is contagious. Taking a pottery class and creating my own piece was a memorable experience, and enjoying a gourmet meal afterward at The Tree Room rounded out the day.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Emphasis on art and nature, serene environment, luxurious yet eco-friendly.
- Cons: Smaller ski area, higher prices for some activities.
Booking Tips:
The Sundance website offers package deals for lodging, lift tickets, and art workshops. Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially for classes and dining reservations.
Utah’s ski resorts near Salt Lake City offer a broad spectrum of skiing experiences, from luxurious and exclusive to budget-friendly and relaxed. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping runs or a peaceful retreat, each of these resorts provides unique qualities that make them worth exploring. By planning ahead and choosing the right resort that aligns with your interests, you’ll be sure to enjoy Utah’s beautiful winter landscapes to the fullest.
Exploring the ski resorts near Salt Lake City is a must for any winter sports enthusiast. Each resort has its unique character and charm, offering a range of experiences from powder-filled runs to luxurious accommodations. Whether you seek the solitude of Alta, the vibrant energy of Park City, or the exclusivity of Deer Valley, there’s something for everyone. By planning your trip with advanced bookings and exploring each resort’s unique offerings, you’ll maximize your experience in Utah’s breathtaking ski paradise.