This Often-Ignored Utah Ski Destination Is the Largest in the Country — With 500 Inches of Snow Annually and Lift Tickets Starting at Just $19

As I arrive at the main parking lot of Powder Mountain, the gentle snowfall greets me. The free parking is my first hint that this northeast Utah ski area stands out from the rest. The second hint? The main ski lodge — Timberline — is unmistakably a relic from the '70s. Children play in snowbanks while parents purchase lift tickets at the window, and skiers stash their PB&J-filled backpacks to grab later during lunch.

I soak in the atmosphere with satisfaction. It’s simple and unrefined — delightfully nostalgic. It’s the vibe I’ve been yearning for since skiing and snowboarding became mainstream, transforming family-owned ski areas into polished mega-resorts run by large corporations.

The downside is that those mom-and-pop-style resorts usually offer mom-and-pop-style skiing — just a handful of lifts, limited terrain, and scant snowfall. That’s where Powder Mountain sets itself apart. It combines a cozy, local vibe with the expansive terrain of a major resort. In fact, it boasts more skiable acres than any resort in the U.S. and a staggering 1,000 more acres than the renowned slopes of nearby Park City Mountain. Beyond lift-accessed runs, you can also explore the sidecountry with a snowcat assist.

The icing on the cake? Powder Mountain’s snow is entirely natural. With an average of 500 inches of fresh snow each year, there’s no need for artificial snowmaking.

"The name pretty much sums it up, but it’s really all about the snow; we have an abundance of high-quality snow," explains Blair Kohn, chief membership officer at Powder Mountain, in an email interview with Dinogo. "Lines are consistently short, and you can still find leftover powder days even after a storm."

Powder Mountain is a rarity in the contemporary ski landscape, rich in character, terrain, and ample snowfall. It’s also unique in its operational approach. Starting in the 2024-25 ski season, three chair lifts will close to the public, offering private access to home sites. To offset this change, a new lift will open access to Lightning Ridge, previously reachable only by snowcat.

"With the introduction of the new Lightning Ridge lift, which will remain public, we will actually see an overall increase in publicly available lift-serviced terrain next year," Kohn notes. "We aim to create a new model for ski resorts that doesn’t depend on the mega pass, keeps the slopes uncrowded, and ensures long-term financial sustainability." Kohn assures that Powder Mountain’s shift toward semi-private access "won't impact day skiers much."

Whether you manage to visit before the changes take effect or plan a trip to Powder Mountain in the future, we’ve gathered all the essential information to help you make the most of your Utah ski getaway.

When to Visit

The ski season at Powder Mountain generally spans from early December to mid-April, but it greatly relies on snowfall and mountain conditions. During my visit in 2021, I enjoyed skiing in late March.

For optimal conditions with a fully open mountain and ample powder, I suggest scheduling your trip between mid-January and late March.

If you’re bringing kids, aim for the Grom Fest, a slalom and slopestyle event for those 12 and under, where local youngsters gather at Pow Mow. Snowboarders should check out the annual Turn n’ Burn, a banked slalom racing competition.

Where to Stay 

On-Mountain Rentals

While Powder Mountain has a nostalgic vibe, its on-mountain accommodations offer a more contemporary experience compared to many other resorts. The vacation rentals available through Powder Stays feature full kitchens and spacious living areas, along with convenient ski-in, ski-out access. Plus, staying on the mountain means you can avoid the daunting drive up Highway 158. I particularly enjoy the rentals in the Horizon neighborhood, which was dubbed "the hottest design destination" by Architectural Digest upon its opening.

Edelweiss Bed & Breakfast

This charming B&B is nestled in the quaint community of Nordic Valley, just east of Eden, Utah. It’s about a 20-minute drive to Pow Mow, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a glimpse of local culture. The family-run inn features recently updated suites, each with a private entrance, full kitchen, and outdoor space.

Wolf Creek Resort

Wolf Creek Rentals offers a selection of vacation rentals within Wolf Creek Resort, located along the route to Powder Mountain via Highway 158. It’s only a 15-minute drive to the ski area from Wolf Creek, and the accommodations come equipped with full kitchens and roomy living areas and bedrooms.

Where to Eat

Powder Keg

As Kohn describes it, "Powder Keg is the must-visit destination on Powder, a nostalgic restaurant and bar that serves up ramen, chicken wings, and healthier options." Situated in Pow Mow’s main lodge, Timberline, the ramen has garnered rave reviews.

Hidden Lake Cantina

Hidden Lake Cantina, located in Hidden Lake Lodge, offers a selection of street tacos along with some of the most breathtaking views on the mountain. Grab your tacos to-go and find an outdoor table to soak in the lodge’s famous scenery. On a clear day, you might even catch glimpses of four different states.

Where to Après Ski

Lucky Slice Pizza

While it may not be a traditional après spot, Lucky Slice Pizza sits at the base of the Sundown Lift, known for Powder Mountain’s $19 night skiing, making it a worthy mention. The pizza is hot and fresh, just what you crave after a few exhilarating runs in the cold.

Powder Keg

I typically wouldn’t mention a place more than once, but Kohn emphasizes that the Powder Keg, known for its fantastic ramen and wings, is also regarded as one of the premier après ski venues in North America, featuring “live music five nights a week, excellent food and drinks,” all wrapped in an “easygoing, enjoyable atmosphere.”

Shooting Star Saloon

For off-mountain fun, Kohn suggests visiting the Shooting Star Saloon in Huntsville, just 30 minutes from Powder Mountain. She describes it as “one of the oldest bars this side of the Mississippi,” offering a straightforward menu of classic hamburgers and cold beers.

Off-mountain Activities

If skiing at Powder Mountain isn’t quite enough, check out the nearby Nordic Valley Ski Resort. Though small, it packs a punch with abundant night skiing and lift tickets starting at just $19. Additionally, Nordic Valley features Wasatch Parc Snow Tubing, where you can rent a tube and enjoy the scenic ride up before racing down the park’s winding lanes.

As evening falls, head to the New World Distillery in Eden. They produce their own spirits — including bourbon, gin, and vodka — and offer a cocktail menu featuring creations like the Black Walnut Whiskey Sour and the Honey Lavender Gin Fizz.

How to Ride 

Tickets

Powder Mountain is not included in the Epic or Ikon pass, so you’ll need to purchase your lift ticket directly from the resort. Similar to many ski areas today, Pow Mow employs a dynamic ticketing system that rewards early bookings. At the time of this writing, numerous adult daily lift tickets were available for $111. Night skiing remains a consistent $19 for all ages and dates.

Rentals

You can find comprehensive ski and snowboard rentals at the shops located in Timberline and Sundown Lodge. Rental prices start at $34 for night skiing and $44 for day skiing, but you can save $15 by booking online in advance.

Skiing and Snowboarding Info

Currently, Powder Mountain features nine lifts that service a vast 8,464 acres of terrain. Although the number of lifts is modest, it’s enhanced by a fleet of snowcats, shuttles, and guides who lead guests off the main paths into the mountain’s sidecountry for a more immersive experience.

Within the main resort area, there are 154 named runs, categorized as 25 percent green (beginner), 40 percent blue (intermediate), and 35 percent black (advanced).

With the shift to semi-private access set for the 2024/2025 ski season, the availability of public ski runs and lifts will be adjusted. According to our calculations, the lift count will increase to 11, with eight designated for public use. (Mary’s, Village, and the new Raintree lifts will be reserved for private access only.)

Programming

Powder Mountain offers group lessons for skiers and snowboarders aged seven and older, along with private lessons for everyone from three to 100 years old. Additionally, there’s a special women’s ski and board program, as well as adaptive lessons available through Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports.

For those eager to explore beyond the marked trails, you can book a $39 ride on one of Powder Mountain’s famous snow cats, which, according to Kohn, provides “access to some incredible, remote terrain where the snow is often untouched.” This service will evolve with the introduction of the Raintree and Lightning Ridge lifts in the 2024-2025 season.

In a similar spirit, Powder Mountain features a guided ski n’ skin offering, where local guides lead skiers into the mountain’s seldom-visited terrain.

Pow Mow offers guided snowmobile tours that showcase breathtaking views of the valley and the Great Salt Lake as riders navigate through the abundant snow in the area.