Best Ski Resort Destinations In Utah — Your Guide To The Unique Offerings of Utah's Ski Towns

Photo: Skier at Snowbasin by Cam Mcleod

Author

Emily Primbs

Published

Oct 4, 2023

Updated

Nov 25, 2023

Trying to decide where your next Utah ski vacation should be? Come along with Mountain Luxury, as we explore all of the best ski resort destinations in Utah from remote getaways to luxurious vacations, in this ultimate guide. All of the 2023-2024 season opening dates have been announced, with several resorts already celebrating the beginning of another (cross your fingers) epic winter.

Discover what makes each ski town in Utah unique and compare all the important stats to find average snowfall, skiable acreage, vertical feet, mountain amenities, aprés ski scene, travel distances from the nearest airports, and ski in ski out property potential for every single ski resort destination in Utah.

For a more in-depth look, we’ve even highlighted several of Utah’s standout ski towns that make for some of the best shredding in the West, read Compare 8 of the Best Ski Towns in the West for more.

With 15 ski resorts, we want to share what makes each resort standout from the others. In Utah we have every kind of ski resort you’re searching for — from the most progressive terrain parks and high-speed lifts to expansive terrain that will make you feel like you’ve got the mountain all to yourself.

Ski Resort Destinations In Utah At A Glance

Ski Resort	Average Snowfall	Vertical Feet	Skiable Acreage	Terrain Breakdown: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced	Distance From Salt Lake City International Airport	Ski In/Ski Out Properties For Sale
Alta Ski Area	540 inches	2,538 ft.	2,614 acres	25%, 40%, 35%	33 mi	Limited
Beaver Mountain	400 inches	1,700 ft.	828 acres	30%, 40%, 30%	122 mi	No
Brian Head	360 inches	1,320 ft.	650 acres	15%, 35%, 50%	213 mi	Limited
Brighton	500 inches	1,875 ft.	1,050 acres	21%, 40%, 39%	35 mi	Limited
Cherry Peak	320 inches	1,265 ft.	200 acres	30%, 45%, 25%	130 mi	No
Deer Valley	300 inches	3,000 ft.	2,026 acres	27%, 41%, 32%	37 mi	Yes
Eagle Point	350 inches	1,500 ft.	650 acres	20%, 55%, 25%	219 mi	Limited
Nordic Valley	300 inches	1,700 ft.	450 acres	20%, 70%, 10%	47 mi	No
Park City Mountain	360 inches	3,200 ft	7,300 acres	8%, 42%, 50%	35 mi	Yes
Powder Mountain	500 inches	2,519 ft.	8,464 acres	25%, 40%, 35%	55 mi	Limited
Snowbasin	300 inches	3,000 ft.	3,000 acres	10%, 50%, 40%	45 mi	No
Snowbird	500 inches	3,240 ft.	2,500 acres	27%, 38%, 35%	29 mi	Yes
Solitude	500 inches	2,494 ft.	1,200 acres	10%, 50%, 40%	34 mi	Yes
Sundance Mountain	320 inches	2,150 ft.	500 acres	20%, 40%, 40%	52 mi	Limited
Woodward Park City	150 inches	400 ft.	60 acres	36%, 45%, 18%	30 mi	No

Alta Ski Area — The Old School Experience

Nestled in the Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, Alta is a skiing purist’s haven. No snowboarding allowed!

From steep chutes to deep powder bowls, it’s a playground for advanced and expert skiers, while still offering terrain suitable for all skill levels. Over the years Alta has resisted the trend of becoming a flashy destination.

It retains a more old-school ski area feel, prioritizing the skiing experience over luxury amenities. It is also connected to Snowbird and skiers can access both with the “AltaBird” pass.

Beaver Mountain — The Mom n' Pop Stop

This family-owned mountain ensures a budget-friendly skiing or snowboarding experience that is more relaxed, and uncrowded.

It’s particularly well-suited for beginners and intermediate skiers. Located near Logan, Beaver is super convenient for those in northern Utah and southern Idaho.

Brian Head Resort — The Highest Elevation Play-cation

Sitting at over 9,600 feet, Brian Head boasts the highest base elevation of any ski resort in Utah.

Surrounded by the stunning red rock formations that are characteristic of southern Utah, the snow-covered slopes make for a unique juxtaposition that will not be soon forgotten. It’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere and is near many of the country’s most iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon and Escalante.

Spread across two connected mountains, the resort offers terrain for all levels with many tailored for beginners and intermediate riders.

Brighton — Utah's Oldest Ski Resort

Established in 1936, Brighton is Utah’s oldest ski resort. You’re in for a truly authentic mountain experience, with its spectacular snow and terrain for all experience levels, terrain parks and night skiing, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Cherry Peak Resort — Utah's Youngest Ski Resort

Opening in 2015, Cherry Peak is the youngest ski resort in Utah, bringing a fresh perspective to the state’s skiing scene.

Just a short drive from Logan, it offers easy access to those in northern Utah. While it may not be as expansive as some of Utah’s larger resorts, it still offers a variety of runs for both beginners and more experienced skiers and snowboarders. You’ll find night skiing, budget-friendly passes and fewer crowds at Cherry Peak.

Deer Valley Resort — First Class Service For Skiers

Deer Valley has an unwavering commitment to guest service and ski-only terrain.

It is the epitome of luxury skiing, and is evident with its ski valets, meticulously groomed runs, and limited ticket sales to ensure an uncrowded experience. It’s culinary offerings are a cut above the rest, featuring gourmet dining.

Eagle Point — The Secluded Mountain

High in the Tushar Mountains of southern Utah, Eagle Point offers a more secluded and intimate skiing experience compared to some of its bigger counterparts.

You feel like you’re on your own private mountain much of the time, and the terrain caters to a diverse range of skill levels.

Nordic Valley Resort — The Most Illuminated Terrain At Night

Nordic’s smaller scale and local clientele give it a distinct community vibe. This intimate atmosphere is appealing to those looking for a more genuine, family and budget-friendly ski experience.

It’s one of 4 resorts in Utah that offer night skiing, and the resort illuminates nearly half of its terrain, making it one of the largest night skiing areas in Utah.

Park City Mountain Resort — The Perfect Blend Of Luxury And Rustic Charm

With its array of boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and historic landmarks, Park City Mountain Resort emerges as an unparalleled blend of modern luxury and rustic charm.

It boasts an impressive spread of terrain for all skill levels and is one of North America’s largest ski areas. Park City has become famous for its vibrant après ski culture that comes alive once the day is done.

Powder Mountain — Backcountry Feel Without The Risk

“Pow Mow” affectionately called by its regulars, boasts over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in the country.

The resort also limits daily ticket sales, ensuring that its vast terrain remains uncrowded and provides unparalleled opportunity for fresh tracks and a sense of solitude.

It’s the only public ski resort in Utah to offer snowcat skiing, allowing skiers and snowboarders to access remote areas of the mountain unreachable via lifts.

You get the backcountry feel with resort amenities like patrolled boundaries, lodges, and ski patrol services.

Snowbasin — Some Of The Top Expert Runs In The Country And Host Of Winter Olympics

Snowbasin gained international acclaim when it hosted the alpine skiing events for the 2002 Winter Olympics.

This world-class reputation is reinforced by its high-speed lifts, immaculately groomed slopes and remarkable lodges adorned with grand fireplaces, chandeliers, and marble floors, that effortlessly merge rustic charm with upscale elegance. Snowbasin also has some of the longest vertical drop runs in the U.S.

Snowbird — The Longest Snow Season In Utah

Snowbird often has one of the longest ski seasons in North America. It’s not unusual for the resort to remain open into June or even July.

It’s particularly known for its challenging terrain and advanced skiers flock to Snowbird for its steep chutes, bowls, and tree runs. The Cliff Lodge provides luxury lodging, a world-class spa, and throughout the resort you’ll find shopping, entertainment and a variety of dining options.

Solitude — The Pristine Alpine Mountain

Solitude lives up to its name by offering a serene skiing experience with diverse terrain that caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Its pristine alpine environment is accentuated by a charming village ambiance that offers lodging, dining, and shopping.

Sundance Mountain — Art, Culture, And Full Moon Magic

Sundance’s unique blend of art, culture, and skiing sets it apart from many other ski destinations, making it a multifaceted winter retreat. The resort aims to honor its rich Indigenous People’s history and is a proponent of environmental conservation.

During specific times in the winter, visitors can cross-country ski by the light of the full moon, a magical experience unlike any other. It’s especially known for its well-groomed runs and uncrowded slopes.

Woodward Park City — A Progressive Terrain Park Haven

With its fresh approach to the traditional ski resort, Woodward provides a platform for progression and learning across a multitude of disciplines that blends winter and summer sports.

Their 125-acre campus caters to skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, BMX, mountain biking and more. They offer a dynamic range of terrain parks designed for various skill levels.

Conclusion

Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Utah is home to 15 incredible ski resorts, each with its own unique charm and offerings. Whether you’re looking for a secluded winter trip away or a lavish mountain vacation with a vibrant après ski scene, there is the perfect ski destination in Utah for you.

Make Ogden Valley your next Utah ski resort destination and get ready to hit the slopes at its THREE ski resorts. Choose from the area’s largest variety of luxury lodging options, and book your next stay with us.

Never want to leave this wintry wonderland? We wouldn’t either. Explore Eden and Huntsville for luxury homes, ski condos, and land so you can always come home to the mountains.