Top 7 Ski Resorts in Utah

Utah is the ultimate destination for skiers seeking both exceptional quality and a vast array of slopes. With an impressive average of 500 inches of snow each year and over a dozen ski resorts, it offers everything from challenging terrains for seasoned experts to gentle trails for novices, solidifying its status as one of the premier ski locations in the nation.

When selecting a ski resort in Utah, consider factors like cost, location, and skill level. One crucial aspect is your sport of choice: Alta and Deer Valley are among the few resorts in the country that prohibit snowboarding, making them ideal for skiing enthusiasts but unsuitable for snowboarders.

If quick access is your main concern, you’re in luck. All the resorts on this list are within an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City International Airport under good conditions. These locations also offer a variety of activities beyond skiing, such as snowshoeing and zip-lining through the crisp winter air.

Ready to plan your trip? Here are seven of Utah's finest ski resorts.

Park City Mountain Resort

With over 340 trails and more than 7,300 acres for skiing and riding, Park City welcomes everyone to discover their perfect spot. Glide down to Main Street when you’re ready to switch from ski boots to après-ski shoes, enjoying the charming town filled with shops, bars, and dining options. Later, delve into Park City's history with a free ski tour that takes you past the historic mining buildings surrounding the resort.

Deer Valley Resort

This resort is a haven exclusively for skiers. While snowboarding is not permitted, it features 103 runs across more than 2,000 acres of beautiful woodland terrain. Hone your skills with a lesson from an Olympic athlete, or take a mountain tour to learn about its fascinating history. After your adventures, you can conveniently drop off your skis at the resort's free ski storage, allowing you to head straight to dinner without any gear worries.

Sundance Mountain Resort

In 1969, Robert Redford acquired a piece of land south of Salt Lake City, which would later evolve into the renowned Sundance Mountain Resort. Although smaller than some neighboring resorts, with only 44 runs and 450 acres, it compensates with exceptional quality. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, dine in the Tree Room, adorned with Indigenous American art from Redford's private collection, or seek more excitement with a winter ZipTour that whisks you over Mount Timpanogos at 65 miles per hour. Join a free mountain tour to familiarize yourself with the area, or experience night skiing before calling it a day.

Snowbird

Seeking a true test of your skills? Visit Snowbird and embark on a backcountry ski tour. Push your limits and refine your turning technique as you navigate through the trees. Once you emerge from the forest, ride the resort's 1.6-mile aerial tram back to the summit to enjoy the sunset with a beer or hot chocolate. If you still have some energy left, strap on a pair of snowshoes and hike across the mountain for a fresh perspective.

Brighton Resort

Situated midway between Park City and Alta, Brighton features 66 trails spanning over 1,000 skiable acres. While it may not offer the wide range of activities like tubing or snowmobiling that some more extravagant resorts provide, it stands out as one of Utah's top family-friendly ski destinations, especially for those introducing young children to skiing. Kids aged six and under can ski for free when accompanied by a pass-holding adult, and the diverse terrain ensures runs suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Alta Ski Area

This mountain, free of snowboarding, refers to itself as a ski area rather than a resort, emphasizing a focus on the slopes themselves. Alta features 119 runs across 2,614 acres and is renowned for its remarkable snowfall, including a record-breaking 903 inches during the 2022/2023 season. For those seeking adventure, the mountain offers extensive backcountry options, such as snowcat skiing and heli-skiing.

Solitude Mountain Resort

Experience skiing or snowboarding across 1,200 acres with 82 diverse runs at this mountain resort, established by a uranium mining magnate in the 1950s. Although there are some beginner trails, Solitude primarily caters to seasoned riders, with 90 percent of its trails classified as intermediate or advanced/expert. Guests seeking a change of pace can enjoy over 12 miles of Nordic trails, providing a tranquil escape and a chance to reconnect with nature.